The proposal to create 31 new states in Nigeria has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) taking opposing positions.
The proposal, introduced by the House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee and read by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, has drawn both support and criticism. While some see it as a way to address regional marginalization, others argue that it is unnecessary and unrealistic.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has strongly opposed the proposal, arguing that only the South-East and South-South regions need additional states.
Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the factional Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, dismissed the proposal as lacking credibility and failing to meet constitutional requirements.
“We commend the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, for dismissing this proposal, which does not meet the basic criteria for state creation,” Isiguzoro said.
According to him, the plan to create 31 states is “premature” and undermines the credibility of the House of Representatives. He insisted that any discussion on state creation should prioritize the South, which has been historically underrepresented.
Isiguzoro further argued that the North’s 19 states were a product of past military regimes, which he described as a strategy to dominate the South politically.
He called on President Bola Tinubu to correct this imbalance by creating one additional state in the South-East and another in either the South-West or South-South.
“This adjustment is not just about numbers; it is about correcting historical injustice and ensuring a fair distribution of political and economic power,” he said.
In contrast, the AYCF supports the proposal, saying it has given hope to many Nigerians.
Yerima Shettima, the President General of AYCF, said the proposed states—particularly those in the North—would address regional imbalances in political representation and resource allocation.
“Some regions feel underrepresented, leading to grievances and marginalization. Creating additional states in these areas could ensure fairer distribution of power and resources,” Shettima stated.
He argued that new states would promote national unity, enhance development, and improve access to government services such as healthcare and education.
However, Shettima acknowledged the financial burden of creating new states, warning that it could strain Nigeria’s economy. He also cautioned against the risk of increased ethnic and religious tensions, stressing the need for careful planning to prevent conflicts.
“The long-term economic viability of these new states must be properly assessed to avoid worsening existing financial challenges,” he added.
As the debate continues, the proposal remains a contentious issue, with various stakeholders voicing their opinions on the future of Nigeria’s political structure.
