Governor Alex Otti of Abia State says Nigeria does not need additional states but agrees the South-East deserves one to correct the imbalance in the country’s geopolitical structure.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Ferdinand Ekeoma, on Sunday, Otti described as “mischievous and diversionary” reports claiming he opposed the creation of an additional state for the region.
“Governor Otti’s position over the years on the creation of additional states in Nigeria hasn’t changed and will not change. His position is that the country doesn’t require additional states, especially when most of the already existing states lack viability for economic self-sustainability.” the statement said
The governor maintained that his advocacy for a six-regional structure was aimed at reducing the cost of governance.However, he noted the South-East’s peculiar case.
“Since one geopolitical zone in the North has seven states, while others have six each except the South-East that has five, there could be an additional state for the South-East to balance the disequilibrium,” Otti said.
He argued that leaders like M.I. Okpara and Sam Mbakwe achieved remarkable feats governing larger political entities without waiting for the creation of smaller states.
“Creating additional states without laying the economic superstructure to sustain them is akin to intentionally laying the foundation for further division and dichotomy,” he warned.
Otti urged stakeholders engaged in the constitution review process to avoid being driven by selfish interests, stressing the need for altruism in decisions that affect the future of the country.
“Public office holders must always think beyond their temporary positions and focus on advancing the long-term interest and welfare of the majority of citizens,” the statement added.
