The Traffic

No New States Approved – Senate Clears Air, Plans Tribute for Buhari

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has firmly denied viral claims suggesting the National Assembly has approved the creation of new states, calling them "unfounded and misleading."

Addressing the Senate during Tuesday’s plenary, Akpabio responded to a point raised by Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), clarifying that although the Constitution Review Committee has received over 42 proposals for new states, none have passed through the rigorous legislative process required for approval.

“Yes, proposals exist—but not one has crossed the finish line,” Akpabio stated. “Creating a new state in Nigeria is no walk in the park. It's a constitutional marathon, not a sprint.”

He cautioned communities against holding meetings or fundraising events based on statehood hopes, stressing that no new state has been legally created or approved. Akpabio urged citizens to rely on official communications from the National Assembly, not social media speculation.

In a related development, the Senate announced a special plenary session for Wednesday in honour of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away recently. Lawmakers are expected to reflect on Buhari’s legacy and contributions to Nigeria’s governance and national unity.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna