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Question

Difficulty: EasyEvolution of Nigerian Federalism and State Creation

Following the recommendations of the Justice Ayo Irikefe Panel, the military administration of General Murtala Muhammed restructured Nigeria's federation in February 1976 by increasing the total number of states from twelve to how many states?

  1. 19 statesAnswer
  2. B
    15 states
  3. C
    21 states
  4. D
    36 states

Answer

19 states
In February 1976, General Murtala Muhammed implemented the findings of the Justice Ayo Irikefe Panel by creating seven new states, bringing the total number of states in the Nigerian federation from 12 to 19.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the historical regime and panel associated with the 1976 state creation exercise.
General Murtala Muhammed appointed the Justice Ayo Irikefe Panel in 1975 to examine demands for new states.
The panel recommended breaking up larger states to address minority concerns and bring government closer to the people.
2
Calculate the total number of states resulting from the implementation of the panel's report.
Seven new states were created out of the existing twelve, resulting in a total of 19 states on February 3, 1976.
This milestone increased the federal units from 12 to 19 states.

Key Concept

State Creation under General Murtala Muhammed (1976)
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Topics

Evolution of Nigerian Federalism and State Creation