Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North) has reiterated the need for the creation of Anioma State from Delta State.
Speaking on Channels Television Politics Today, the former Abia State governor if created, it will become the 6th state in Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone.
Senator Kalu argued that the South-East remains the only region in the country with five states, putting 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 said.
Adding: “Anioma people are Igbos, and they have never denied their identity.”
Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, ignited the renewed clamour for the creation of Anioma State, maintaining that the new state would correct historical imbalances and enhance the South East’s representation in national affairs.
Currently, the region has only 15 senators, while other zones—except the North-West, which has seven states—have 18 senators each.
The renewed call for the creation of Anioma State has also received the support of two other senators from Delta State, Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) and Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (Delta South).
Despite some teething challenges, the call for an additional state in the South-East continues to gain traction because it would go a long way to achieve equity in Nigeria’s federal structure.
