Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has reiterated the need for the creation of Anioma State from Delta State to become the sixth state in Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, the former Abia State governor 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.”
The push for Anioma State has also been championed by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North.
He maintains 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 proposed Anioma State would consist of nine local government areas from Delta State.
Despite some teething challenges, the call for an additional state in the South-East continues to gain traction, with leaders like Kalu and Nwoko advocating for what they see as a necessary step towards equity in Nigeria’s federal structure.
