Lawmaker wants inec to raise number of representatives for rivers

It appears that a lawmaker is advocating for an increase in the number of representatives for Rivers State in the Nigerian National Assembly.

This is not an unusual request, as lawmakers often seek to increase the representation of their states or constituencies in the legislature. However, the decision to increase the number of representatives for a state would require a constitutional amendment, which is a complex and time-consuming process.

Here are some potential reasons why the lawmaker might be making this request:

  1. Population growth: Rivers State has a growing population, and the lawmaker may argue that the state deserves more representation in the National Assembly to reflect its increasing population.
  2. Economic importance: Rivers State is a significant contributor to Nigeria's economy, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The lawmaker may argue that the state's economic importance warrants more representation in the National Assembly.
  3. Political representation: The lawmaker may believe that increasing the number of representatives for Rivers State would provide more opportunities for citizens of the state to participate in the political process and have their voices heard in the National Assembly.

However, there are also potential challenges and considerations that would need to be addressed if the number of representatives for Rivers State were to be increased:

  1. Constitutional amendment: As mentioned earlier, increasing the number of representatives for a state would require a constitutional amendment, which would need to be approved by two-thirds of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, as well as by three-quarters of the state legislatures.
  2. Financial implications: Increasing the number of representatives for a state would require additional funding to support the salaries and benefits of the new representatives, as well as the administrative costs of the National Assembly.
  3. Representation imbalance: If the number of representatives for Rivers State were to be increased, it could potentially create an imbalance in the representation of other states in the National Assembly.

Overall, the decision to increase the number of representatives for Rivers State would require careful consideration of the potential benefits and challenges involved.