PRESS RELEASE FROM THE
OFFICE OF THE SENATOR REPRESENTING CROSS RIVER NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT
Date: July 19, 2025
OGOJA STATE IS ON TRACK: OUR PEOPLE DESERVE THE TRUTH, NOT MISINFORMATION
Our attention has been drawn to concerns expressed by some constituents over the omission of Ogoja State from a recently circulated preliminary list of proposed states by the Constitution Review Committee of the Senate. We wish to assure our people that the pursuit for the creation of Ogoja State is very much alive, and firmly on track.
It is important that we provide clarity and educate the public on the legislative process involved in state creation, so that no one is misled or incited by ignorance or mischief.
The Bill for the creation of Ogoja State was sponsored by Hon. Godwin Offiono, a capable and committed representative in the House of Representatives. According to the established legislative procedure, a Bill for State creation cannot be concurrently sponsored in both chambers of the National Assembly. Once a Bill is initiated in one chamber — in this case, the House of Representatives, it must follow due process there and, upon successful passage, will be transmitted to the Senate for concurrence before the final reading and onward transmission for Presidential assent.
The fact that the Bill is not originating from the Senate does not in any way mean it is not progressing. The process is deliberate, legal, and grounded in the Constitution. Let us not substitute the discipline of lawmaking with political drama.
Let it be clear: we are not in the National Assembly to create superficial impressions or engage in fanfare. We are here to face realities, not to compete needlessly or commission non-existent projects. Our focus is to deliver real and tangible outcomes for our people, guided by law and principle.
Furthermore, the Public Hearing for the proposed Ogoja State, as part of the Constitution Review process, is scheduled to hold in Calabar under the auspices of the House of Representatives. This is in line with the legislative pathway the Bill must travel. The final list of proposed states, which will ultimately include Ogoja State, will be published upon completion of due processes.
Let us remain calm, united, and confident. Ogoja State is not just a proposal, it is a movement backed by history, merit, and growing national support. We must not allow misinformation to divide us or distract from the larger goal.
We are one family, bound by shared aspirations. We urge our people to continue to support the ongoing efforts and to trust the process.
SIGNED:
Media Team,
Office of the Senator Representing Cross River North