The Igede ethnic group in Benue State has expressed support for the proposed creation of Ogoja State, indicating a willingness to be excised from Benue and merged with parts of Cross River State under the new arrangement. This development is part of the ongoing discussions and growing agitation across Nigeria for the creation of more states to reflect ethnic, cultural, and developmental interests.
Comrade Cletus Aruta, the youth leader of the Igede people, stated that joining the proposed Ogoja State would be in the best interest of the Igede nation. Aruta claimed that the Igede people have long suffered neglect and marginalization in Benue State, citing a lack of equity, fairness, and infrastructural development despite their population and contributions to the state's progress.
"We can't go back to Egypt anymore," Aruta said, emphasizing the need for a new beginning under a more inclusive and development-oriented administration. The Igede people's desire for a change in their administrative structure is driven by the current structure's failure to deliver on its promises.
The proposed Ogoja State is expected to be formed from the northern part of Cross River State and adjoining areas, including willing communities from Benue. This development is part of the ongoing constitutional amendment efforts aimed at creating new administrative and political entities.
Aruta's statement highlights the Igede people's frustration with their current situation and their desire for a better future. The proposed creation of Ogoja State offers a potential solution, and the Igede people's support for the initiative underscores their willingness to explore new opportunities for development and growth.
The creation of Ogoja State would have significant implications for the region, potentially leading to more targeted development and greater autonomy for the communities involved. As the discussions and agitation for state creation continue, the Igede people's support for the Ogoja State initiative is likely to play a key role in shaping the future of the region.
The Igede people's demand for a new state is not just about administrative restructuring; it's also about seeking a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. According to Aruta, the Igede people have been marginalized and excluded from the development process in Benue State, despite their significant contributions to the state's economy and society.
The proposed creation of Ogoja State offers a chance for the Igede people to take control of their destiny and determine their own future. By joining the new state, the Igede people hope to benefit from more targeted development and greater autonomy, which would enable them to address their specific needs and challenges.
The Igede people's support for the Ogoja State initiative is a significant development in the ongoing discussions about state creation in Nigeria. As the country continues to grapple with the challenges of development, security, and governance, the creation of new states offers a potential solution to some of these problems.
The proposed creation of Ogoja State is just one of several initiatives aimed at creating new states in Nigeria. As the discussions and agitation for state creation continue, it's likely that more communities will come forward to express their support for new states. The Igede people's demand for a new state is a testament to the growing desire for more inclusive and responsive governance in Nigeria.
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