By Our Correspondent
Senator representing Imo North, Senator Frank Ibezim, has thrown his weight behind the clamoured for an additional state for the South East region.
According to the lawmaker, additional state for the region would go along way to pacify the people, while suggesting restructuring to help strengthen the nation’s democracy.
Ibezim spoke on Friday in Abuja, on the gains of democracy, to mark the 2021 democracy day celebration.
He also remarked that, democracy had fared well in Nigeria, compared to the days of military regimes.
He said during the military era, due to some draconian laws, people were not supposed to speak against the government; “but today, people have freedom to speak and you have free speeches also”.
On the clamour for restructuring and secession, the lawmaker said it was high time the government listen to the people and harmonize the differences to ensure peace is restored.
“Now, most Nigerians are calling for peace, and I believe that, with the challenges of our time, may be it is a way to eventually help this nation. So, I can’t throw away those that are talking about succession.
“All I want for Nigerians is to listen to everybody, because by the time you listen to everybody we will be able to come together. I believe that, this is a great country. I believe that there is hope for positive development and I believe that now is the time for us to look inwards and work together”, Ibezim said.
He said restructuring the country would further strengthen the unity of the people and restore peace and security.
Senator Ibezim, while throwing his weight behind creation of additional state in the South East, added that, it could only be possible through the instrumentality of the amendment of the 1999 constitution, which process is currently ongoing.
He called on Nigerians to remain calm and await the outcome of the constitution amendment process, which he said would address many issues raised by various groups.
It would be recalled that, the South East region is the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria with only 5 States.
