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The bill for a legislation to create a map for the state and other subjects related thereto has been approved by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.
The Akwa Ibom State Map Establishment Law 2023, which was enacted on Thursday during plenary, is anticipated to go into effect on April 13, 2023.
As a representative of the Oruk Anam State constituency, Sir Udo Kierian Akpan, the chairman of the Joint Committee on Lands and Housing, Boundary and Conflict Resolution, and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, submitted the committee's report.
The measure, proposed by Hon. David Lawrence (Eket), will, per the report, lessen agitations and community disputes, improve, and stimulate development within the designated limits.
The study further stated that "The Bill will facilitate easy identification and placements and promote cultural affinities of the individuals inside the limits. Additionally, it will help with the accurate placement and distribution of resources residing in the component units."
The report also suggested that the state's whole government White Paper on border concerns be taken into account and put into immediate effect.
The bill was co-sponsored by Sir Udo Kierian Akpan (Oruk Anam), Barr. Aniefiok Dennis Akpan (Etinan), Otuekong Nse Essien (ONNA), Elder Mark Esset (Nsit Atai), Hon. Victor Ekwere (Mkpat Enin), Hon. Uduak Odudoh (Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo), Barr. Otobong Bob (Nsit Ubium), Obong Godwin Ekpo (Ibiono Ibom) and Hon. KufreAbasi Edidem (Itu).
