By Olakunle Oke
Senator Ned Nwoko has called for the creation of an additional state in the South-east region and the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, describing his continued detention as unjust.
Speaking on Sunday politics on Channels TV explained that the Southeast has long suffered marginalization, pointing out that it remains the only geopolitical zone with five states while others have six, except for the Northwest, which has seven.
He said he had earlier discussed the issue with former President Muhammadu Buhari, stressing the need to address the insecurity and youth agitation in the region. According to him, creating one more state would go a long way in promoting equity and calming tensions.
“The whole idea is that there should be some level of equity extended to the Igbo people by having an additional state. It may not be easy, but it is doable,” he said.
The Senator emphasized that many of the agitations in the Southeast stem from feelings of neglect and injustice, which have fueled violent acts and insecurity in the region.
He also condemned the prolonged detention of Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that his incarceration has been unjust.
“Nnamdi Kanu has been held unjustly. If you want to try him, then get on with it. But keeping him detained indefinitely without conclusion is wrong,” he stated.
The senator argued that the judicial process has been unnecessarily delayed and that previous court rulings in Kanu’s favor have not been respected by the authorities.
He added that finding a political solution, rather than prolonged prosecution, would help restore peace and unity.
“By the time you create an additional state and release Nnamdi Kanu, I am almost certain peace will return to the Southeast,” he said.
The senator further revealed that youths in the region are eager for peace and willing to engage with the government once they feel acknowledged and respected.
“The youths don’t want to die. They want to return to school and their jobs. All they seek is respect and recognition from the Nigerian government,” he concluded.
