The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has called for the creation of at least two additional states in Nigeria’s South-East, insisting the current allocation of only five states to the region is an historic and ongoing injustice that undermines representation and inclusion in national affairs.
Governor’s Proposal at Constitution Review
Speaking during a public hearing on the 1999 constitution review in Owerri, Uzodinma emphasized that the South-East remains the only geopolitical zone with just five states, compared to six or more for other regions. He argued this imbalance has resulted in underrepresentation of the South-East in institutions such as the National Assembly and the Federal Executive Council, reducing the zone’s influence and inclusivity within the Nigerian federation.
Key Proposals by Governor Uzodinma
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Creation of Two Additional States: Uzodinma specifically recommended the establishment of at least two more states to bring the South-East in line with other geopolitical zones.
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Anim State Proposal: He highlighted the proposed Anim State as a priority, noting its potential commercial viability due to oil-producing status and the prospect of a robust, self-sustaining revenue base.
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New Local Government Areas: The governor advocated for the creation of new local government areas to accompany any new states, reflecting the population and administrative needs of the region.
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Equal Representation: He asserted that additional states would promote equity and justice, addressing grievances of marginalization long held by people of the region.
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Rotational Presidency: Uzodinma also called for a constitutionally mandated rotational presidency among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, aiming to foster national stability and a deeper sense of inclusion.
Rationale and Wider Support
Uzodinma described the push for additional states as an issue of fairness tied directly to the principle of equity, warning that the ongoing imbalance risks perpetuating political and economic marginalization. He urged the National Assembly to embrace his proposals, contending that a truly inclusive constitution must reflect the aspirations of all citizens, especially historically underrepresented groups.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, represented by his deputy, echoed calls for constitutional reforms to promote inclusivity but expressed reservations about widespread state creation, underscoring the spectrum of opinion among South-East leaders.
Broader Constitutional Demands
In addition to state creation, the review hearing addressed:
- The need for state policing for improved local security.
- Legal safeguards for defining indigenous status based on birth or long-term residence.
- Calls to entrench equity, justice, and peaceful articulation of regional grievances within the constitutional framework.
Background and Stakeholder Engagement
The public hearing in Owerri involved stakeholders from Imo and Abia States, with participation from lawmakers, traditional rulers, and civil society groups. The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described the review process as a key step in ensuring that the constitution serves as a genuine social contract reflecting contemporary realities.
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