By Mercy Aikoye
The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has emphasized that the people of Imo and Abia States, as well as the entire South East, have clear expectations regarding the proposals in the ongoing Amendment process of the 1999 Constitution by the 10th National Assembly. He stated that the time has come to address these expectations with urgency, sincerity, and justice.
Uzodinma called for the creation of more states in the South East, noting that the region remains the only geopolitical zone with five states. “Every other zone has six or more,” he said. “This imbalance has led to underrepresentation in critical national institutions, from the National Assembly to the Federal Executive Council.” He proposed the creation of at least two additional states in the South East, including Anim State, which would have an oil-producing status and be commercially viable.
The governor also advocated for a rotational presidency based on the six established geopolitical zones. “This is not about tokenism but national stability,” he said. “If Nigerians know that the presidency will rotate among the six zones, it will remove the fear of domination and deepen the sense of inclusion in the country.”
Uzodinma supported the creation of state police, arguing that the current centralized policing structure is overstretched and often disconnected from local realities. “The time has come for us to take decisive steps on State Police,” he said. “We cannot allow the past to paralyze the future when our citizens are crying out for safety and order at the grassroots.”
The governor also called for a redefinition of indigeneity, suggesting that anyone born in a state or has lived in a state for upwards of ten years should be considered a legitimate indigene of that state. “We should not be seen to be speaking from two sides of our mouth,” he said. “We need to legally define indigeneity by birth or long-term residence.”
Uzodinma emphasized the importance of unity and inclusion in Nigeria’s development. “Our diversity is our strength, not our weakness,” he said. “But that strength must be harnessed through law and equity. Therefore, our Constitution must reflect our shared values, not just our shared borders.”
The governor urged the National Assembly to consider the proposals and suggestions made during the public hearing. “As you tour the country on this important assignment, may you be guided by the hope of millions who seek a Constitution that truly belongs to them,” he said.
In conclusion, Uzodinma’s proposals aim to address the historical marginalization of the South East region and promote a more inclusive and equitable federal structure. By creating more states, adopting a rotational presidency, and redefining indigeneity, Nigeria can promote national cohesion and development.
The outcome of the constitutional review process will determine whether the expectations of the South East region will be met.As Uzodinma noted,
“There different views across Nigeria but what our constitution should reflect in order to fortify our young democracy. “ it is essential to consider these
Perspectives and work towards creating a constitution that truly belongs to all Nigerians.
