Bayelsa State has called for the creation of 25 additional local government areas (LGAs) to address the overpopulation of its existing eight LGAs, some of which encompass over 150 communities. The proposal was presented by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), during a public hearing organized by the South-South Centre A (Bayelsa, Delta, and Edo) of the House of Representatives’ Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, held at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa on Saturday.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Daniel Alabrah, the state also advocated for fiscal federalism, state police, electoral reforms, and judicial reforms. Bayelsa proposed that federating states gain full control of their onshore and offshore natural resources, retaining 60% of the revenue while remitting 40% as tax to the federal government. The state argued that its proposed LGAs, created by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly in line with Section 8(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), are financially viable.
On the issue of state police, Bayelsa emphasized that it would bolster states’ capacity to combat crime and enhance security, aligning with the principles of true federalism. The state also urged a review of the local government system, autonomy for LGAs, the exclusive and legislative lists, and reforms to strengthen the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary.
Governor Douye Diri, speaking at the event, underscored the importance of constitutional amendments to reflect the evolving needs of Nigerians. He described the Constitution as a dynamic instrument that must ensure a “genuinely just, equitable, and responsive” federal system. Diri highlighted the need to correct “historical injustices” related to resource allocation and the disparities in LGA distribution, emphasizing their significance for Bayelsa, the Niger Delta, and the Nigerian federation.
The hearing saw representation from Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, through his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, and Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebolo, represented by Attorney General Samson Osagie. Both governors endorsed the constitutional review, noting that the 1999 Constitution remains controversial and requires updates to address its flaws.
Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and chairman of the South-South Centre A Committee, assured attendees that all submissions would be thoroughly reviewed and forwarded to the full Constitution Review Committee for consideration in the House. He emphasized that stakeholder engagement would foster a more democratic, inclusive, and participatory Nigeria.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Dr. Gloria Diri, wife of the Bayelsa governor; Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; federal lawmakers such as Dr. Fred Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor), Mrs. Marie Ebikake (Nembe/Brass), Dr. Mitema Obordor (Ogbia), and Rodney Ambaiowei (Southern Ijaw); and the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere. Traditional rulers, including the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, and the chairman of the state traditional rulers council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, were also present, alongside dignitaries from Delta and Edo states.
The public hearing marks a significant step in Bayelsa’s push for structural reforms to address longstanding governance and resource allocation challenges in Nigeria’s federal system.
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