Abia State Governor Alex Otti has cautioned against the creation of 31 additional states as proposed in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution, warning that it would place a significant economic burden on Nigeria due to increased administrative costs and bureaucratic expansion. Otti made these remarks on Saturday during the South-East Zonal Constitution Review for Abia and Imo States, held in Owerri by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review.

Represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, Otti described the review as a vital opportunity for Nigerians to shape the country’s governance structure. He urged citizens, regardless of political affiliations, to contribute to refining the constitution. “This platform allows broad engagement, and all stakeholders deserve a say,” he stated, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue.

Otti expressed concern over proposals for 31 new states, acknowledging that while they aim to address marginalization, the financial implications could strain Nigeria’s resources. “Multiplying administrative costs and bloating bureaucracy is not sustainable unless independent funding sources are identified,” he said, advocating instead for an inclusive governance model at the state level to ensure equitable resource allocation and political representation.

The governor called for prioritizing economic restructuring, job creation outside the civil service, and the welfare of ordinary citizens over elite-driven systems. “Ordinary people must be at the center of decision-making,” he stressed.

On the issue of state police, Otti supported its establishment to address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, which he described as a national priority. However, he emphasized the need for clear standards on leadership, recruitment, accountability, and human rights to ensure effective implementation.

Otti also endorsed additional legislative seats for women in national and state assemblies, calling it essential for inclusive governance. However, he cautioned that political party processes must be strengthened to ensure genuine female participation, warning against men using proxies to maintain influence.

Regarding proposals to make local government councils a separate tier of government, Otti urged caution to avoid creating costly bureaucratic structures. He questioned the financial prudence of establishing numerous agencies for local councils, suggesting a focus on streamlining systems to prioritize social services over administrative overheads.

On compulsory basic education, Otti aligned the proposal with international human rights conventions, stressing the need for adequate education financing. “Quality education requires investment in teacher training, particularly in STEM fields, competitive remuneration, and conducive learning environments,” he said, advocating for statutory funding to support these goals.

Otti acknowledged the 1999 Constitution’s ambiguities, which he said are exploited by various groups, but noted that Nigeria’s governance experience since 1999 provides a basis for meaningful reforms. He commended the country’s willingness to amend the constitution, citing five rounds of alterations since 2010 as evidence of responsiveness to structural demands.

The governor’s address underscored the need for pragmatic, inclusive reforms to address Nigeria’s governance challenges while ensuring fiscal responsibility and equitable representation.