EBONYI GOVERNOR MAKES STRONG CASE FOR CREATION OF NEW STATES IN SOUTH EAST

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has made a strong case for the creation of additional states in the South East region to address the imbalance in the country's geopolitical structure. He made this call when he received members of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, who were in the state for a public hearing on the review of the constitution.



Governor Nwifuru emphasized the need to address the structural imbalances in the country, pointing out that the South East region has only five states, unlike other regions with six or more states. He argued that this imbalance can trigger resentment among the people and urged the National Assembly to ensure that marginalization and structural imbalances are constitutionally addressed. "It is a matter of equity and fairness that we address this imbalance," he said.

The governor also advocated for the rotation of the presidency among the six geopolitical zones for equity and fairness. He noted that the South East zone has not occupied the position of the President since 1999, which he described as an injustice. "What is the essence of the geopolitical zone structure if the office of the president cannot be tested by all the zones?" he queried. This call is expected to generate significant debate and discussion in the country.

Governor Nwifuru also stressed the need to review Section 308 of the constitution to grant immunity to Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker House of Representatives, and Deputy, as well as Speakers and Deputy Speakers of State Assemblies. This, he said, would give them the security and protection they need to perform their duties effectively.

The governor renewed his call for constitutional backing to state police, dismissing insinuations that they will be misused by governors. He argued that state police would enable states to address security challenges more effectively and bring development to their respective regions.

The Leader of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, said the public hearing was necessary due to growing concerns that the constitution needs to be further reviewed to meet the demands of Nigerians. He assured that members of the review committee will ensure that no section of the country is shortchanged in the process.

The call for the creation of new states in the South East region and the rotation of the presidency among the six geopolitical zones is a significant development that could shape the country's future. The Ebonyi State governor's advocacy for state police and granting immunity to legislative leaders are also important issues that require careful consideration. The outcome of the constitutional review process will be eagerly watched by many Nigerians.

The proposals made by Governor Nwifuru have significant implications for the country's future. The creation of new states in the South East region could lead to more equitable distribution of resources and representation in the federal government. The rotation of the presidency among the six geopolitical zones could also promote national unity and reduce tensions between different regions.

Reactions to the governor's proposals have been mixed. While some have praised him for his courage and vision, others have expressed concerns about the potential implications of the proposals. "This is a bold move by the governor," said a commentator. "It will promote national unity and reduce tensions between different regions." Others have expressed concerns about the potential cost of creating new states and the impact on the country's economy.

The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution will continue to receive inputs from various stakeholders and consider the proposals made by Governor Nwifuru and other stakeholders. The outcome of the constitutional review process will be eagerly watched by many Nigerians, and it is expected to have significant implications for the country's future.

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