Sanwo-Olu renews push for Special Status, LCDA recognition at Constitution Review hearing

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated his call for a special status for Lagos State, emphasizing its overdue necessity due to the state’s historical role as Nigeria’s former federal capital and the ongoing burdens it shoulders.

Represented by Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu made the remarks on Saturday at a public hearing on the 1999 Constitution Review for Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States, held at Watercress Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu argued that any state that previously served as the federal capital should not be left to bear the resulting responsibilities without compensation.

“Any state that was once the federal capital cannot just inherit the assets and liabilities of the entire country and then be forgotten. As a nation, let us be fair to the people of Lagos by granting the state a special status,” he stated.

The governor also advocated for the establishment of state police, stressing that it is essential for effective protection of citizens, not merely a matter of semantics.

Additionally, he urged the National Assembly to recognize the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) created in Lagos since 2003 in the constitution, noting their success in bringing governance closer to the grassroots and accelerating local development.

Sanwo-Olu described the public hearing as a vital opportunity for Lagosians and the South-West region to shape Nigeria’s highest law.

“We must be guided by inclusiveness, equity, and justice. The hopes, worries, and dreams of all—men, women, young, and old—should shape the amendments,” he urged, encouraging active participation from all stakeholders.

Commending the House of Representatives Committee for their commitment to a transparent and inclusive review process, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.

“We will continue supporting initiatives to strengthen our constitutional framework and deepen democracy,” he added.

Rt. Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim Ayokunle, Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives and Chairman of South-West Centre ‘A’, emphasized the committee’s commitment to fairness and transparency.

He assured that all memoranda and suggestions would be thoroughly reviewed at the National Assembly level, reflecting the diverse aspirations of Nigerians.

Speakers from the Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo State Houses of Assembly expressed support for constitutional recognition of traditional rulers, devolution of power, state police, inclusion of LCDAs, transfer of waterway permits to state governments, and addressing regional insecurity, among other issues.