Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed viral social media reports claiming that the National Assembly has approved the creation of new states.
Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, Akpabio said the Senate has received more than 42 proposals for new states, but none have gone through the full process required by law.
“I have seen over 42 proposals, but not one has gone through full deliberation. The process of creating a state is very rigorous and has not been completed in any instance,” he told the lawmakers.
He was responding to concerns raised by Senator Abdul Ningi of Bauchi Central, who mentioned the rising tension in some communities over the rumours.
Akpabio warned against community meetings or any mobilisation based on the belief that a new state had been approved.
He said only official statements from the National Assembly should be trusted when it comes to constitutional changes or creation of new states.
In a related development, the Senate will hold a special session on Wednesday to honour former President Muhammadu Buhari, who died recently.
The session is expected to focus on Buhari’s time in office and his contributions to Nigeria’s growth.
