A coalition of indigenous groups in Sokoto State on Friday called for the creation of Gobir State from the present Sokoto State, the establishment of state police, and the inclusion of constitutional roles for traditional rulers.
Speaking at a press briefing, former House of Representatives member, Dr Balarabe Shehu-Kakale, said the groups had prepared 16 memoranda to be presented at the ongoing public hearing organised by the National Assembly Constitutional Review Committees.
Shehu-Kakale said the demands also included carving out Shuni LGA and Danchadi LGA from the existing Dange-Shuni and Bodinga LGAs, and creating State Assembly seats and a Federal Constituency for Bodinga LGA, separate from the current Dange-Shuni/Tureta/Bodinga Federal Constituency.
Other proposals included renaming some LGAs to reflect cultural heritage, granting full autonomy to local government councils and state assemblies, allowing electronic transmission of results during elections, and reforming the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He noted that the memoranda also recommended the repeal of Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution to make the compulsory provision of skills education for school-aged children a fundamental human right, alongside basic education.
According to him, the coalition consulted students and educational institutions, community groups, civil society organisations, representatives at both state and national levels, politicians, and government officials before finalising the proposals.
Also speaking, Prof Mu’azu Shamaki from the Geography Department of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, and Secretary of the Gobir Development Association, emphasised that the proposed Gobir State would consist of eight local government areas from the eastern region of Sokoto State, rich in both mineral and human resources.
He said the proposed state’s population was 3.5 million out of the estimated 6 million people in Sokoto State.
Shamaki pointed out that Goronyo, Lugu, and other large dams are located in the area, along with River Bunsuru and other water bodies suitable for irrigation and various economic activities.
He added that Gobir Kingdom had a pre-Jihad historical background and economic potential that could boost internal revenue and development.
According to him, the region has suffered neglect for over a decade, with many areas lacking electricity and facing worsening security challenges. “Creating Gobir State will bring government closer to the people,” he said.
Alhaji Garba Shehu of the Usmanu Danfodiyo Muhajirun Association stated that the creation of new states would provide greater opportunities and enhance the drive for a more secure and stable society.
Malam Musa Sabo, leader of the Shuni People’s Union, members of Lafiya Sak Association, and other group representatives also attended the press briefing.
(NAN)