The notation of exotic in that case is due to the racial specialization. Many humans living near the Cumasti prefer the blade to the longsword. We wrote that stuff before Complete Warrior was released. If you think it works better to extend the crit range, be my guest. I don't plan to identify this as a mistake though.
As for the Afridhi, the monster entry was to make sure they were present in a basic form but they are way cooler than just 2nd level fighters. We have alot of plans for them, but didn't want to miss them in the book since they play an important role in the world. Future supplements will detail religious hierarchies, battle tactics and other mysteries. They are quite interesting and nefarious. As for the favored class, you could say they are disadvantaged, but Fighter fits into the culture more than any other.
Hope that helps.
Dustin