Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Reiterates Support for Additional State in South-East
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has strongly reaffirmed his support for the creation of an additional state in Nigeria's South-East region. During a courtesy visit from stakeholders of the Anioma State Movement in Abuja, Kalu proposed a unifying "Animoma" model as a practical and collaborative pathway to achieve this long-standing demand.
Emphasis on Collaboration and Unity
Kalu, who also chairs the Constitution Review Committee, stressed that state creation cannot be pursued in isolation. He highlighted the necessity of broad-based consultation and collaboration with governors and key stakeholders across both the South-East and South-South regions. "You can’t do this without the governors of the South-East and South-South. It is our duty to pass bills, but critical stakeholders must be involved," Kalu stated.
He advocated for a fusion of separate state proposals, suggesting "Animoma" as a compromise to unite advocates. "If you ask me between having Anioma State and Anim State, I would prefer a fusion, Animoma, so that the two brothers can come together as one," he explained. Kalu urged proponents to embrace compromise, warning that isolated efforts would be futile. "Whoever is proposing in isolation must be ready to give up some and accept some so that brothers can unite and work together. Anything outside this approach is a waste of time," he added.
Key Criteria and Democratic Processes
On the issue of determining a state capital, Kalu noted that its location would be decided through negotiation and democratic consensus among stakeholders. He outlined essential criteria for state creation, including geographical considerations, historical and cultural identity, economic viability, political dynamics, and regional alignment. "We must ask: who are our neighbours? Who is joining us? Why should they join us? These are the core indicators we must evaluate as we move forward," Kalu emphasized.
He assured that the Constitution Review Committee would continue to prioritize the creation of an additional state in the South-East, commending Senator Ned Nwoko for his sustained advocacy for the Anioma cause. Earlier in the meeting, Nwoko, the leader of the delegation and proponent of Anioma State, expressed appreciation for Kalu's support, highlighting the visit as a gesture of gratitude for his backing of their agitation.
This development underscores ongoing efforts to address regional representation and governance in Nigeria, with Kalu's proposals aiming to foster unity and practical solutions through inclusive dialogue and strategic planning.
