Hon. Charles Offoboche, a former House of Representatives aspirant under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2022 by-election, has emphasized the urgency and significance of creating Ogoja State, likening it to a pregnant woman approaching her due date.
In a statement on Sunday, Offoboche therefore called for sustained efforts to ensure the quick actualisation of the agitation for creation of Ogoja State.
“No matter how long it takes, a pregnant woman will deliver,” he said, emphasising that the fate of Ogoja must also culminate in statehood.
Offoboche, who has championed a movement for Ogoja State creation, expressed his satisfaction with the renewed legislative efforts from the lawmaker representing the Ogoja/Yala federal constituency and underscored the timeliness of this bill.
He highlighted what he described as the injustice of Ogoja’s lack of state status since it was established as a province before 1908, especially when compared to its counterparts in the South-South region.
Charles argued that the establishment of Ogoja State would catalyse significant socio-economic development and provide a sense of inclusivity for its residents pointing out that neighbouring states, Enugu and Ebonyi, which did not exist as entities during the colonial era, have since emerged as recognised states, and further illustrating the potential Ogoja State holds.
He however called on Sen. Jarigbe Agom representing Cross River-North in the senate to give a speedy push in the upper chamber when it gets to the floor without forgetting Hon. Peter Akpanke of OBO to join their voice in making sure that this dream becomes a reality in the wake of 2027.
In the same vein, Offoboche urged well-meaning Cross River North sons and daughters in the ruling APC to shun party differences but join forces with Hon. Offiono who is championing the bill to become an achievement of this generation as the last failed in it.
He highlighted the strategic advantages of Ogoja State, including its economic viability and land capacity to effectively house a state infrastructure.
Offoboche posited that if any new state creation was to be considered within Nigeria’s geopolitical landscape, Ogoja State from the South-South region should be prioritised due to its readiness and potential impact on the region’s development.
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