Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has urged the National Assembly to create additional states in the South East geopolitical zone to correct the existing imbalance in Nigeria’s political structure.
He appealed while receiving members of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution in Abakaliki, the state capital. The governor’s remarks were contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, and shared with journalists on Friday.
Nwifuru argued that the South East, being the only zone with five states while others have six or more, faces structural marginalisation that could breed resentment. “To end regional squabbles permanently, I urge the National Assembly to ensure marginalisation and structural imbalances are constitutionally addressed,” he said.
He also advocated for rotational presidency among the six geopolitical zones to promote equity and fairness, noting that the South East has yet to produce a president since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
“What is the essence of the geopolitical zone structure if the office of the president cannot be tested by all the zones?” the governor questioned.
He further called for an amendment to Section 308 of the constitution to extend immunity to presiding officers of legislative houses, including the Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and their deputies, as well as Speakers and Deputy Speakers of State Assemblies.
Also, Nwifuru reiterated his support for state police, dismissing concerns that governors might misuse such powers. He emphasised that constitutional safeguards could prevent abuse while enhancing security at the grassroots level.
The governor’s proposals align with ongoing efforts to restructure Nigeria’s federal system and address long-standing grievances over political representation.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
