Afenifere, ACF, and Former NASS Members Oppose State Creation, Call for Restructuring
The House of Representatives Constitution Review Committee’s proposal to create 31 new states in addition to Nigeria’s 36 existing states has triggered widespread criticism from political groups, ex-lawmakers, and socio-cultural organizations.
While proponents argue the move will address governance and equity issues, critics describe it as unrealistic, expensive, and a distraction from urgent national issues like restructuring and economic sustainability.
Proposed New States by Region
📌 North-Central (6 states) – Okun, Okura, Confluence (Kogi), Benue Ala, Apa (Benue), and FCT State
📌 North-East (4 states) – Amana (Adamawa), Katagum (Bauchi), Savannah (Borno), Muri (Taraba)
📌 North-West (5 states) – New Kaduna, Gujarat (Kaduna), Tiga, Ari (Kano), Kainji (Kebbi)
📌 South-East (3 states) – Etiti, Orashi, Adada
📌 South-South (5 states) – Orlu, Aba, Ogoja, Warri, Ori
📌 South-West (7 states) – Torumbe (Ondo), Ibadan (Oyo), Lagoon (Lagos), Ogun, Ijebu (Ogun), Oke Ogun/Ijesha (Oyo/Ogun/Osun)
Afenifere, ACF Reject Proposal as ‘Wasteful and Unnecessary’
Afenifere (Yoruba socio-cultural group)
The National Organizing Secretary of Afenifere, Abagun Kole Omololu, rejected the proposal, arguing that it distracts from the need for true federalism and economic viability.
“Creating more states will not fix Nigeria’s governance challenges. Many states are already financially unsustainable, relying heavily on federal allocations. We need restructuring, not more administrative units,” he said.
Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF – Northern group)
The National Publicity Secretary of ACF, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, described the proposal as ridiculous, warning that it would create more problems than solutions.
“How many of the existing 36 states are even viable? More states mean more overhead costs, more bureaucracy, and more political fights. Instead of expanding government, we should focus on addressing the country’s economic crisis,” he stated.
Ex-National Assembly Members Condemn Move
Several former lawmakers also criticized the proposal, raising concerns over economic feasibility, governance effectiveness, and political motives.
🛑 Senator Haruna Garba (Gombe North): “Creating 31 more states is absurd. Even 42 states would be excessive. We should focus on making the current states viable.”
🛑 Senator Nicholas Tofowomo (Ondo South): “Most states rely on federal handouts. Instead of creating more, we should strengthen local governments and improve their funding.”
🛑 Ex-Reps Member Barth Nnanna (Anambra): “The South-East remains shortchanged with only five states. If new states must be created, there should be fairness in their distribution.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Demands More States for South-East
The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, strongly opposed the proposed number of states for the South-East, calling it another act of marginalization.
“The South-East is the only region with five states, while others have six or seven. We should get at least seven states to correct this historical injustice,” said Ohanaeze’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu.
Middle Belt Forum and PANDEF Endorse State Creation with Conditions
Unlike other groups, the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) and Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) supported the proposal, but with specific demands.
🔹 MBF President, Dr. Bitrus Pogu: “This is a step toward equity. Some regions have never had a governor from certain areas. New states will bring fairer representation.”
🔹 PANDEF Spokesman, Christopher Ominimini: “We support equal distribution of states across geopolitical zones. However, new states must be economically viable and self-sufficient.”
Will Governors Support the Proposal?
Former House of Representatives Member, Ogbona Nwuke, argued that state governors would likely oppose the proposal due to the potential reduction in federal allocations to existing states.
“Most governors won’t back this. It’s an expensive project that will stretch federal resources even thinner,” he stated.
Economic Feasibility: Where Will the Money Come From?
Former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, dismissed the proposal as insane, questioning how Nigeria would finance the governance structure of 67 states.
“Where will the money come from? We are already struggling to pay salaries in 36 states,” he said.
What’s Next?
The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review has invited memoranda from the public and stakeholders. However, the proposal faces strong resistance, and its passage into law remains uncertain.
📌 Possible Outcomes:
✅ Public rejection due to financial concerns
✅ Selective state creation instead of 31 new states
✅ Shift towards restructuring and regional autonomy
With economic crises, insecurity, and governance inefficiencies already straining Nigeria, critics argue that state creation is a misplaced priority that could deepen the country’s financial struggles.
