Ohanaeze and Arewa Youths at Odds Over New State Creation Proposal
The debate over the proposed creation of 31 new states in Nigeria is heating up, with the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) taking opposing stands on the issue.
The proposal, put forward by the House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee, has sparked both support and criticism from political leaders, ethnic groups, and citizens across the country.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo: “Only the South Needs More States”
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has firmly rejected the proposal, insisting that only the South-East and South-South deserve additional states.
According to Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the group’s Deputy President General, the move is an “exercise in futility” and fails to address historical imbalances in Nigeria’s political structure.
He argued that the North, with 19 states, has had an unfair advantage due to past military regimes, making it necessary to prioritize state creation in the South.
“Ohanaeze urges President Tinubu to take action and correct this imbalance by creating at least two additional states in the South, one in the South-East and another in the South-South or South-West.
This is not just about numbers—it’s about fairness and justice,” Isiguzoro emphasized.
Arewa Youths: “New States Will Bring Hope and Unity”
On the other hand, Yerima Shettima, President General of AYCF, welcomed the proposal, stating that it offers a fresh opportunity for regional balance and economic development.
He pointed out that some regions feel marginalized, and adding new states could ensure better representation, resource distribution, and government attention.
However, Shettima also cautioned about the financial burden of creating new states, stressing that it could divert funds from essential sectors like healthcare and education.
He also warned that the move could stir ethnic and religious tensions if not carefully implemented.
What’s Next?
With strong arguments on both sides, the fate of the 31 proposed states remains uncertain.
Will the government heed Ohanaeze’s call for fairness in the South, or will Arewa Youths’ vision for national unity prevail?
Have Your Say!
Do you think Nigeria needs 31 new states, or should the focus be on better governance? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned to NIGPOST for more updates!
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