Bayelsa Youth Leader Calls for Increase in Local Government Areas to 25

A youth leader from Bayelsa State, JP Owoupele Esq., has issued an urgent appeal to the state governor and members of the National Assembly, urging them to push for an increase in the number of local government areas in the state from eight to 25. Owoupele emphasized that Bayelsa is currently the only state in Nigeria with just eight local government areas, despite its significant contributions to the national economy.

He highlighted the need for immediate action, arguing that the current number of local governments does not meet the constitutional threshold. According to him, this presents a unique opportunity for the state’s leaders to act swiftly and correct the imbalance. He called on the governor to take a proactive stance by sponsoring a bill on behalf of the people of Bayelsa to facilitate the creation of additional local governments.

Owoupele’s appeal is rooted in a recent development at the National Assembly, where legislators are considering a bill to approve 35 local development areas in Lagos State. He stressed that Bayelsa must not be left behind and should seize this moment to advocate for a similar expansion.

In his statement, Owoupele respectfully urged the governor to take urgent and critical steps to champion this cause, ensuring that the aspirations of Bayelsans are met. He also called on lawmakers representing the state at the federal level to support this initiative and work towards securing approval for the additional local governments.

He concluded by expressing gratitude to the governor for his anticipated prompt response, hoping that this appeal would be given the attention it deserves.