AKOKO-EDO ADVOCATES FOR HOMEGROWN RESTRUCTURING, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SELF-DETERMINED DEVELOPMENT

AKOKO-EDO ADVOCATES FOR HOMEGROWN RESTRUCTURING, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SELF-DETERMINED DEVELOPMENT

By Jennifer Nwosu 

The Akoko-Edo Development Association (AEDA) has reaffirmed the collective desire of the Akoko-Edo people to shape their administrative future through inclusive dialogue and locally inspired proposals, rather than externally driven initiatives.

In a statement signed by Barrister Mrs. Mary Opii, Secretary of AEDA, the association emphasized the importance of community consensus in any restructuring process, gently clarifying that the people of Akoko-Edo were not consulted in a recent proposal advocating the creation of Agbelo East and West Local Government Areas.

The proposal, credited to Hon. Anamero Dekeri, representing Etsako Federal Constituency was described as one that does not reflect the views or aspirations of Akoko-Edo constituents. AEDA noted that Hon. Dekeri’s constituency does not include Akoko-Edo and as such, his proposal though possibly well-meaning, was not rooted in local consultation or authorization.

Rather than aligning with the Agbelo plan, AEDA shared that the Akoko-Edo people have already developed and submitted a comprehensive, community-supported proposal to the National Assembly. This alternative seeks the creation of three new local government areas namely Akoko-Edo North, Akoko-Edo South and Akoko-Edo Central all structured to reflect the area's unique ethnic composition, landmass and demographic needs.

For decades, Akoko-Edo has remained a single undivided LGA, despite being one of the most expansive and culturally diverse in Edo State. According to AEDA, this long-standing administrative arrangement has limited growth and equitable development across the region.

The statement read that the people believe in thoughtful, grassroots-based restructuring, adding that Akoko-Edo's proposal was the product of broad consultations, historical awareness, and a shared vision for sustainable governance.

While expressing appreciation for ongoing constitutional reforms across the country, AEDA urged the National Assembly, the Constitution Review Committee and other stakeholders, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, to respect the wishes of the Akoko-Edo people by giving due attention to their homegrown submission.

In closing, the association called for continued collaboration among all communities in Edo North, emphasizing unity, mutual respect and locally led development as the pathway to lasting progress.