By Sandra Micheals
Leaders and stakeholders from Nigeria’s South-East have thrown their weight behind the proposed creation of ANIM State.
The push, which has drawn strong backing from political leaders, traditional rulers and lawmakers across the region, was reinforced during a meeting in Abuja, between a delegation from Imo and Anambra states and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Senator representing Imo West Senatorial District, Osita Izunaso, said the agitation enjoys widespread support from political leaders, traditional rulers, local government officials and community stakeholders across the affected areas.
He noted that the campaign for the new state had already gained legislative momentum, revealing that federal lawmakers from the affected constituencies had passed resolutions endorsing the proposal.
Responding, deputy speaker Benjamin Kalu stressed that the creation of new states should be viewed as a strategic tool for development and inclusive governance, rather than merely a political ambition.
He further noted that the South-East remains the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria with five states, while the other zones have six, a disparity he said affects political balance and equitable representation within the federation.
Kalu urged promoters of the ANIM State proposal to expand consultations beyond the South-East, noting that lawmakers from other geopolitical zones would ultimately determine the fate of the proposal when it comes up for voting.
