Constitutional Review: Ogoja State Creation Is a ‘Now or Never’ Struggle — Cletus Obun
By Missang Akpet
Former member of the Cross River State House of Assembly and veteran political advocate, Hon. Cletus Obun, has declared that the creation of Ogoja State is a non-negotiable demand and a matter of historical justice for the people of Northern Cross River.
Speaking during a live interview on Hit FM in Calabar on Monday, July 21, 2025, Obun—who also served as the former state chairman of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), described the push for Ogoja State as a lifelong cause, stating that he has fought for it for over four decades.
According to him, the people of the Ogoja geopolitical bloc have endured decades of marginalisation, political exclusion, and socio-economic neglect, which now demand urgent redress through state creation.
“The creation of Ogoja State is a do or die affair,” Obun said emphatically. “Nigeria has no excuse whatsoever not to grant us a state. This is the greatest injustice we have suffered since independence.”
Obun argued that the proposed Ogoja State meets all constitutional criteria, including landmass, population, economic viability, and administrative structure.
“We don’t even need the federal government to tell us we qualify,” he said. “We have the landmass — Boki and Yala local governments alone have over 5,000 square kilometers. We have the economic base, the ecological and tourism assets, and a cohesive cultural identity. What else is Nigeria waiting for?”
Highlighting the region’s natural endowments, Obun said Ogoja boasts Nigeria’s largest rainforest belt, vast mineral deposits, agro-industrial potential, and tourism assets including the Obudu Ranch Resort.
“Dubai does not have oil, yet it thrives. Ogoja can survive without oil wells. We have eco-tourism, agriculture, and more. We are ready to function as a full-fledged state,” he added.
Obun revealed that detailed proposals and documentation have already been submitted to relevant authorities, including the delineation of at least nine local government areas to constitute the proposed state. He added that traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders have been fully consulted.
“We are the last remaining province of Nigeria’s old colonial structure that hasn’t been given statehood. Our people played critical roles in keeping Nigeria united. This is not just about geography; it’s about justice, equity, and national cohesion.”
He further emphasized the strategic position of the Ogoja region, linking Nigeria’s North, East, and South, and noted that the area already hosts an airport and other critical infrastructure.
“We have paid our dues. Nigeria owes us. We are not begging; we are demanding what is rightfully ours,” Obun stated.
As the National Assembly continues its zonal hearings on constitutional amendments, Obun’s passionate call echoes a growing sentiment among constituents in the North and Central parts of Cross River State who believe the time for Ogoja State is now.
