The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, has expressed its firm rejection against the proposed bill for the conversion of 37 Local Council Development Areas, LCDAs, in Lagos state into a full blown Local Government Areas. Accordingly, it was learned that the proposed bill has scaled a second reading in the House of Representatives.
In a statement issued this morning by the Arewa group, It’s National President, Isah Abubakar, said, “This move is not only unjust but also poses a significant threat to the principles of equity and fairness that must underpin our nation’s governance.”
He added, “We believe that the creation of new LGAs should not be a measure that benefits only Lagos State at the expense of other states in the federation.”
The group noted that if by any means the 37 LCDAs end up as lawful LGAs in Lagos state, it would set a dangerous precedent, inevitably leading other LCDAs across the country to press similar demand which would be a bridge to constitution.
According to Abubakar, “This could lead to increased fragmentation and division within our national structure, undermining the unity and integrity of Nigeria.”
Therefore, he called on Nigerian governors; especially those from Northern extraction resist the move, being the gatekeepers of equitable governance to their people while ensuring that policies and legislation reflect the needs and rights of all Nigerians, not just those in a particular region.
The group instead advocated for a fair and comprehensive review of local governance structures across the country, emphasizing that any discussions around LGA creation should involve all concerned stakeholders to dialogue as it is a constitutional matter.
“As we move forward, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria remains committed to promoting unity, equity, and fairness in governance. We urge all lawmakers to reconsider the implications of this bill and to work towards the betterment of all Nigerians,” Abubakar concluded.
