The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) has called on the National Assembly to shift its focus from creating new states to addressing pressing national issues such as corruption, unemployment, and insecurity.
Speaking to journalists, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Dr. Zikirullahi Mualeem Ibrahim, criticized the proposal to increase the number of states, arguing that it comes at a time when Nigeria is battling severe economic and security challenges.
He highlighted the country’s hyperinflation, high unemployment rate, and the depreciating value of the naira, which have left many Nigerians struggling to afford basic necessities. He also lamented the rising insecurity that has instilled fear and instability across the nation.
“In light of these challenges, it is alarming that lawmakers are prioritizing state creation over urgent economic and social issues. This raises concerns about whether they are truly in touch with the realities of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
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Ibrahim warned that creating new states would further strain Nigeria’s limited financial resources, increasing administrative costs rather than addressing developmental needs. He described the proposal as a political strategy aimed at misleading citizens ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He also called for constitutional recognition of Abuja as a state, arguing that such restructuring could promote equitable resource distribution and governance.
Recommending a shift in legislative priorities, Ibrahim urged lawmakers to focus on:
- Combating corruption to restore public trust and ensure efficient resource allocation.
- Strengthening security measures to safeguard lives and economic activities.
- Implementing electoral reforms for a more transparent and inclusive democratic process.
- Creating job opportunities, particularly for the youth, to foster economic stability.
He stressed that genuine governance should prioritize solving the country’s fundamental problems rather than engaging in politically motivated distractions.