Tinubu likely to approve creation of single additional state – Report

There is strong signals from Abuja suggest that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may approve the creation of only one additional state once the National Assembly and state legislatures conclude the required constitutional process.

According sources familiar with discussions at the federal level noted that Anioma State is the main proposal receiving serious attention. Supporters believe the move would address long-standing complaints of imbalance and marginalisation raised by people from the South-East. The zone currently has five states, fewer than any other geopolitical region in the country.

Officials disclosed that consultations have reached an advanced stage, especially with groups that are against listing the proposed state under the South-East. Within Delta State, some groups have opposed the idea, arguing that Anioma should remain in the South-South. They believe this would raise the number of states in that zone to seven. However, those close to the Presidency noted that the plan under review places Anioma as the sixth state in the South-East, with Asaba proposed as its capital.

One of the sources said, “Anioma State would be created to compensate the South-East region and Ndigbo in general,” adding, “Mr President is fully aware of the arguments for and against the creation of the state, but he considers Anioma the most viable among the various requests for state creation.

“He is also keen on achieving geopolitical balance, equity, fair representation, and justice, particularly to assuage the feelings of marginalisation expressed by Ndigbo, whose region currently has the fewest states.”

The same source dismissed calls for a proposed ‘Anim-Oma State’ that would merge parts of Delta, Imo, and Anambra states, noting that such a plan is not under consideration.

Although no date has been fixed for a meeting between President Tinubu and key stakeholders, insiders said talks with National Assembly leaders are ongoing, with lawmakers said to be favourably disposed to the idea.

Reacting to the development, Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, expressed optimism that the long-running agitation is nearing success. He said, “This is a historic clamour that has never enjoyed this level of national attention and support.

“It is a golden opportunity for the Igbo people to reunite with their kith and kin across the Niger.

“The Ohanaeze constitution recognises Anioma as the sixth Igbo state and Ikwerre as the seventh. It is therefore not a coincidence that over 90 senators have declared their total support for the creation of Anioma State.”