Constitution review: Kaduna, Kano demand new states

The governments of Kaduna and Kano States have demanded the creation of a new state and 26 Local Government Areas.

The two states made this demand at the North West Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on Saturday.

DAILY POST reports that the hearing brought together stakeholders from Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa States, including civil society groups, traditional rulers, and government representatives.

According to Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who was represented by his deputy, Hadiza Balarabe, the current over-centralized federal system is unsustainable, lamenting that it stifles development and alienates citizens.

“Our current arrangement does not reflect the principle of subsidiarity,” he said.

He also called for a constitutional framework that allows states full control of natural resources within their territories and the right to legislate on local matters.

The governor equally pushed for the creation of state police, noting that his previous advocacy in the 9th Senate was hindered by political disagreement.

“Security cannot be national if it is not local. Kaduna is ready to support constitutional amendments to establish state police,” he stated.

In its submission, the Kano State government sought the creation of a new state and 26 additional Local Government Areas to increase its current LGAs from 44 to 70.

Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Gwarzo, who represented Governor Abba Yusuf, presented the demand.

“We strongly advocate for restructuring and align with the national call for the creation of more states, provided they meet the criteria of Section 8 of the Constitution,” Gwarzo said.

The state also sought full constitutional autonomy for local governments and proposed amendments to Sections 2(2), 7, and 162(5) to ensure recognition and functionality of LGAs as a distinct tier of government.

Constitution review: Kaduna, Kano demand new states