Ethiope State Is Long Overdue, Says Senator Dafinone at Constitution Review Hearing in Yenagoa

 

By Wilson Macaulay

Senator Ede Dafinone, the lawmaker representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has strongly advocated for the creation of Ethiope State, describing it as a bold step toward correcting historical injustices, empowering the Urhobo Nation, and unlocking new avenues for inclusive economic growth, infrastructural development, and cultural preservation.

Speaking at the South-South Zonal Public Hearing of the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, held at the Chief D.S. Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Senator Dafinone emphasized that the creation of Ethiope State is long overdue and remains a legitimate demand by the Urhobo people — Nigeria’s fifth-largest ethnic nationality and the most populous ethnic group in Delta State.

Dafinone, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committees on Local Content and Legislative Compliance, stated that the Urhobos have endured decades of systemic marginalization despite their significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in the oil and gas sector, agriculture, and commerce. He noted that the creation of Ethiope State would provide a constitutional mechanism to address these inequities and create a more balanced federal structure.

> “The Urhobo people have continued to be underrepresented in state and national affairs despite their demographic size and economic relevance. The creation of Ethiope State will not only redress this imbalance but will also ensure fairer resource allocation, foster responsive governance, and stimulate rapid infrastructural development across Urhobo communities,” Dafinone asserted.

He further highlighted that the proposed Ethiope State would comprise the two Urhobo kingdoms in Warri South Local Government Area, the Urhobo communities in Patani Local Government Area, and all eight Local Government Areas of Delta Central Senatorial District — namely Ethiope West, Ethiope East, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Udu, Sapele, Okpe, and Uvwie.

The senator argued that Ethiope State’s creation would bring governance closer to the grassroots, address socio-political neglect, and enhance administrative efficiency. He also stressed the importance of the move in protecting and promoting the unique cultural heritage of the Urhobo people, which he described as a vital part of Nigeria’s diverse identity.

Dafinone called on fellow lawmakers, traditional rulers, opinion leaders, and other ethnic nationalities across Nigeria to support the just and equitable demand for Ethiope State, which aligns with the principles of fairness, justice, and federal character enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

He concluded by assuring the Urhobo people of his unwavering commitment to championing their aspirations and ensuring that their voice is heard at the highest levels of national policymaking.