The Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) has charged prominent Ijaw leaders, to canvass for the creation of Ijaw homogeneous states, including Oil River and Toru-Ebe States in the National Assembly.
The call was contained in a statement signed on behalf of the group by its National President, Comrade Ozobo Austin.
It said that the creation of homogeneous Ijaw states will address the longstanding issues of underdevelopment and marginalization.
The statement reads: “The creation of homogeneous states, particularly Oil River and Toru-Ebe, holds great promise for the Ijaw people.
“It is expected to bring about improved governance, increased economic opportunities, and enhanced infrastructure development.
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“Again, it will provide a platform for the Ijaw people to have a stronger voice in national politics and decision-making processes in the country.”
The forum urged Ijaw leaders to take the lead in submitting fresh bills for the creation of the homogenous state in the National Assembly.
It appealed to Ijaw National Assembly members, who are expected to sponsor and champion the passage of the bills in the National Assembly and state House of Assembly members, governors, and other stakeholders, to lend their support to the initiative to see to the fruition of the states.
The forum stated further that “it is essential that Ijaw leaders respond positively to this call and work together to make the creation of Ijaw homogeneous states, a reality being the fourth largest ethnic nationality in Nigeria.
“With unity, determination, and collective effort, the Ijaw people can achieve their aspirations and create a brighter future for themselves and generations to come.”
