A bill seeking to create Ogoja State from Cross River has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Godwin Offiono and three other lawmakers, aims to alter the 1999 Constitution to establish a new state in Nigeria’s South-South region.

During Thursday’s plenary session, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put the bill to a voice vote, which it passed. The speaker subsequently referred the bill to the Committee on Constitutional Review for further consideration.

This development marks a significant step towards creating Ogoja State, which would be carved out of Cross River. The proposed state has a rich history and is home to diverse ethnic and tribal groups.

The bill’s progress will be closely watched as it moves through the legislative process. If passed into law, Ogoja State would become Nigeria’s 37th state.