In a bold move to bring governance closer to the people and improve service delivery, the Ebonyi State House of Assembly has unanimously adopted a referendum for the creation of 12 additional Local Government Areas (LGAs). The proposed restructuring will boost the number of LGAs in the state from 13 to 25, a step aimed at addressing developmental and economic challenges as well as correcting perceived imbalances in LGA distribution based on landmass and population density.
The decision was reached during a plenary session held at the State Legislative Complex on Nkaliki Road in Abakaliki. Lawmakers endorsed the proposal, which is expected to enhance governance, reduce economic hardship, and promote equitable resource distribution across Ebonyi State once the new LGAs are formally gazetted.
Proposed New LGAs:
- From Ikwo LGA: Ikwo South and Ikwo North
- From Abakaliki LGA: Ekumenyi
- From Izzi LGA: Ebyia
- From Edda LGA: Ndiagbo
- From Ishielu LGA: Ishielu South
- From Ivo, Onicha, and Ohaukwu LGAs: Akaeze, Ukaba, and Effium
- From Ezza-South, Ezza-North, and Afikpo LGAs: Izzikworo, Amohai, and Imoha
The motion was moved by Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Prince Nkemka Okoro-Onuma from Edda West Constituency and seconded by Hon. Ifeanyi Nwakpu of Ikwo North Constituency.
In related news, the plenary session also saw the first reading of a bill for the establishment of the Ebonyi State Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission, a move aimed at further enhancing fairness and representation within the state.
The adoption of the referendum reflects the state’s commitment to decentralized governance and the belief that empowering local government structures can drive significant progress in addressing local needs and challenges. Lawmakers and stakeholders alike are optimistic that the creation of new LGAs will bring administrative services closer to the people, thereby fostering economic development and social cohesion across Ebonyi State.
