ABUJA/Nigeria: Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has renewed calls for the creation of Anioma State from Delta State, arguing that it would bring the South-East geopolitical zone to parity with other regions in Nigeria.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, the former Abia State governor emphasized that the South-East remains the only region with five states, placing it at a disadvantage in political representation and resource allocation.
“Anioma State should be created as the sixth South-East state. It’s the only viable option,” Kalu stated, adding, “Anioma people are Igbos, and they have never denied their identity.”
The push for Anioma State has also been strongly advocated by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North. He maintains that the creation of the new state would correct historical imbalances and enhance the South-East’s influence in national affairs. Currently, the region has only 15 senators, compared to 18 in most other zones and 21 in the North-West, which has seven states.
The proposed Anioma State would comprise nine local government areas from Delta State, a move its proponents say would foster equity and inclusion in Nigeria’s federal structure. While the agitation faces constitutional hurdles, the calls for an additional state in the South-East continue to gain momentum, with influential leaders like Kalu and Nwoko making a strong case for its realization.
