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We’re Committed to the Creation of Okura State  – Rep. Abdullahi Ali Halims

Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali (Halims), Deputy Leader,  House of Representatives (file photo)

By Elizabeth Okwe

The Deputy Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abdullahi Ibrahim Ali Halims has reiterated his commitment to the creation of Okura State out of the present Kogi State.

Speaking during a meeting with the Okura State Movement in Abuja on Sunday, Halims who represents Ankpa/Omala/Olamaboro Federal Constituency in the House, vowed to use his contacts and position in the National Assembly to advance the long-standing aspiration for creation of Okura State.

The event featured the presentation of a report by the Special Meeting Conveners’ Committee chaired by Professor Emeritus, Godwin Ogbadu.

“In view of my position today in the National Assembly, by the grace of God, if any new state is created, Okura State will be among them. Write it down today,” Halims declared. “Where these decisions are made, I will be there. With God on our side, we will crack the hard nuts and achieve our goals.”

Halims harped on the need for unity and collective effort as essential elements for the realization of Okura State while  pledging  his unwavering support and urged constituents to remain steadfast in the struggle.

“We are in this struggle with all our strength,” he said. “I, Abdullahi Ibrahim Halims, am wholly and totally committed to doing justice to the creation of Okura State.”

He called for fervent prayers and grassroots support, noting that these are critical to ensuring sustained advocacy and effective representation at the National Assembly.

While presenting the report to the Deputy House Leader, the Chairman of the Okura State Movement, Chief Robert Usman Audu, described Hon. Halims as a consistent advocate for the state creation of the proposed state.
He noted that Halims recently sponsored a bill in the National Assembly, which has passed its second reading, proposing the creation of Okura State.

“This is a defining moment for our people,” Chief Audu stated. “This document demonstrates a well-coordinated effort, highlighting historical equity and development imperatives as the driving forces behind this agitation.”

According to Audu, the proposed state aims to address long-standing demands for equitable representation, balanced development, and improved governance for the Igala and Bassa ethnic groups in the region.

“Creating Okura State will ensure fair distribution of resources, greater development, and a stronger sense of inclusion for the people of Kogi East Senatorial District,” Audu explained.

According to the report, the Okura State Movement has launched several initiatives in its  push for its realization, including dialogues with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Kogi State Government.

Other initiatives listed in the report include embarking on public engagements through organization of town hall meetings, media campaigns, and outreach programs to educate citizens about the need for the creation of the State.
The movement has also proposed an “Okura State Good Governance Advisory Council” to guide socio-economic transformation.
It has also established a Strategy and Advocacy Committee to intensify advocacy efforts.

In an interview with SunriseNigeria, the Chairman of the Special Meeting Conveners’ Committee, Professor Godwin Ogbadu said the committee has prepared a comprehensive documentation outlining the historical, demographic, and socio-economic justifications for the state’s creation.

The movement has also reaffirmed Idah as the proposed capital of Okura State, citing its historical and cultural significance. The creation of Okura State, first proposed in 1980, represents a beacon of hope for the Igala and Bassa communities.

Among those in attendance were: Professor Godwin Ogbadu, Abdullahi Haruna (SAN), Chief  Robert Usman Audu, Dr. Yakubu Ugwolawo, Hon. Frank Ineke, Dr. James Odaudu, Hon (Barr) Haruna Yusuf, and Hon. Bala Zakari.

Also in attendance were Dr. Jeremiah Ekele, Chief Alfa Ibn Mustafa, Ibrahim Enejoh, Pst. Adejoh Adams, Comrade Akwu Umar Goodman, Hon. Precious Enoch, Engr. Cyprian Adejo,  Barr Daniel Daudu Makolo, and Dr Agbali, amongst others.

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