The Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria (AWAN) has publicly declared its intention to unite the Awori people residing in Lagos and Ogun states, a strategic move aimed at consolidating their position in anticipation of the potential creation of new states in Nigeria. This initiative is not a novel concept; rather, it represents a renewed effort to bridge the geographical and political divide that currently separates the Awori communities across the two states. AWAN’s proactive stance underscores their commitment to ensuring that the Awori people have a unified voice and a stronger platform to advocate for their interests in the evolving Nigerian political landscape. The association has firmly denied any internal divisions regarding the merger, emphasizing the shared vision and collective desire among the Awori people for a united front.
The impetus for this renewed push for unification predates the recent proposal by the National Assembly’s Committee on Constitutional Review to create additional states, including two potentially carved out from Lagos and Ogun states, tentatively named Lagoon and Ijebu states, respectively. AWAN had already recognized the strategic importance of a unified Awori voice, initiating efforts to merge their communities before the National Assembly’s proposal. This foresight demonstrates AWAN’s proactive approach to securing the Awori people’s future and ensuring they are well-positioned to influence decisions that directly impact their communities. The current merger initiative builds upon these earlier efforts, reflecting a consistent and long-standing desire for unity within the Awori community.
Following the National Assembly’s proposal, other groups also submitted proposals for new state creation. This prompted stakeholders to advise the Awori community to consolidate their efforts and present a unified front to the National Assembly’s Committee, avoiding a potentially divisive approach of submitting multiple proposals. This advice led to a significant meeting between the movement for Awori unification and representatives of Awori traditional rulers (Obas) in both Lagos and Ogun states. Held at the Obas Complex in Lagos, this meeting served as a crucial platform for coordinating the various proposals and forging a single, comprehensive memorandum to be presented to the Obas. This unified memorandum was finalized in a timely manner to meet the National Assembly Committee’s deadline, demonstrating the Awori community’s commitment to effective organization and timely action.
The drive for a unified Awori voice illustrates a deep-seated desire for greater political representation and influence within the Nigerian political system. By consolidating their population and presenting a united front, the Awori aim to strengthen their bargaining position and ensure that their interests are effectively represented in any future state creation processes. This strategic move highlights the importance of political unity and collective action in advancing community interests within a complex political environment. The push for unification transcends mere administrative reorganization; it represents a significant step towards securing greater autonomy and control over resources and governance for the Awori people.
While the National Assembly’s timeline and decision regarding the creation of new states remain uncertain, the Awori’s proactive approach signals their determination to be prepared for any eventuality. This forward-thinking strategy allows them to actively shape their future rather than passively react to external decisions. By laying the groundwork for a unified community, the Awori are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on potential opportunities and mitigate potential risks associated with the creation of new states. This proactive stance underscores the importance of preparedness and strategic planning in navigating the complex and often unpredictable political landscape.
The AWAN’s public statement clarifying their intentions and the history of their unification efforts serves to correct any misconceptions and acknowledge the contributions of those who have worked tirelessly towards this goal. By providing a clear and accurate account of the merger initiative, AWAN aims to foster transparency and build consensus within the Awori community and among external stakeholders. The statement emphasizes the collective effort and underscores the shared vision that drives the movement for Awori unification. This public clarification also serves as a testament to the commitment and dedication of the Awori people to achieving their political aspirations. It also reinforces the importance of open communication and transparency in building a strong and unified community.
