The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has adopted a referendum for the creation of twelve additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state, in addition to the already existing thirteen LGAs.
This measure aims to bring the government closer to the people and thereby alleviate their suffering.
The adoption of the referendum, which gained the unanimous endorsement of Assembly members, took place during plenary at the State Legislative Complex, Nkaliki Road, Abakaliki.
The proposed new Local Government Areas include Ikwo South and Ikwo North from Ikwo LGA, Ekumenyi from Abakaliki LGA, Ebyia from Izzi LGA, and Ndiagbo from Edda LGA, while Ishielu South is to be carved out from the existing Ishielu LGA in the state.
Others include Akaeze, Ukaba, and Effium, to be carved out from Ivo, Onicha, and Ohaukwu LGAs, respectively.
Additionally, Ezza South, Ezza North, and Afikpo LGAs are expected to produce Izzikworo, Amohai, and Imoha Local Government Areas.
Once gazetted, the referendum will bring the total number of LGAs in the state to twenty-five and is expected to reduce developmental and economic challenges while addressing the perceived imbalance in LGA distribution, considering factors such as landmass and population density.
The motion for the adoption of the request was moved by the Chief Whip of the House and member representing Edda West, Hon. Prince Nkemka Okoro-Onuma, and was seconded by the member representing Ikwo North State Constituency, Hon. Ifeanyi Nwakpu.
During the plenary, a bill for a law to establish the Ebonyi State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission passed its first reading.
