The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has raised their voice to resist a Bill seeking to convert 37 Local Council Development Areas in Lagos State into full-fledged Local Government Areas.
The Bill has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives, although with intense debate among lawmakers considering fresh provisions for constitutional amendments.
NYCN called on Northern governors to reject the Bill in order to protect their interests.
The councils were created in 2003 by then Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but faced stiff resistance from then President Olusegun Obasanjo, who immediately ordered the withholding of allocations to the 20 local councils in Lagos.
Raising the group’s objection to the move in a statement issued on Thursday in Kaduna, NYCN National President, Isah Abubakar, described the proposed Bill as an unjust threat to the principles of equity and fairness in governance.
According to him, the development could lead to increased fragmentation and division within Nigeria’s national structure, undermining the unity and integrity of the country.
The statement said, “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.
“If these 37 LCDAs are allowed to transition into LGAs, it sets a dangerous precedent – inevitably, other LCDAs across the country will demand similar recognition.
“We call on Nigerian governors, especially those from Northern Nigeria, to protest against this Bill. [/b]It is crucial that they stand as guardians of equitable governance, ensuring that any policies or legislation reflect the needs and rights of all Nigerians, not just those in a particular region.
“Any discussions around LGA creation should involve concerted dialogue with all stakeholders, ensuring that decisions consider the diverse needs of the entire nation rather than catering to a select few.
“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.”
