Amid growing alls for the creation of new states across Nigeria, Senator Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom – South) has stressed that any new state will be established based on legal procedures and objective criteria rather than public sentiment.
Speaking at the National Assembly, Senator Sampson explained that creating a state involved a careful balance of constitutional rules, historical context, and socio-political considerations.
Sampson also noted that while the 10th National Assembly sought to move away from the tradition of military-led state creation, lawmakers must still operate strictly within the legal framework.
Using the historic COR State Movement as an example, Sampson acknowledged the long-standing aspirations for new states but emphasised that decisions must be guided by due process, not emotions.
He further added that lawmakers need to weigh the interests of communities, the historical background, and the wider implications for the nation before approving new states.
While he recognised the legitimacy of current demands, Sampson reaffirmed that procedure and law will determine the outcome, ensuring fairness and stability
