The long-standing demand for equity and the creation of an additional state in the South East Nigeria has returned to the national conversation — and this time, it’s echoing loudly in the corridors of Nigeria’s National Assembly.
Several fresh proposals have been made but Etiti State and Anioma State standout and are currently generating passionate debates in the region and beyond.
The Etiti State proposal, sponsored by Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah at the House of Representatives, seeks to carve a new state from parts of five South East states.
Meanwhile, Senator Ned Nwoko is championing Anioma State at the Senate, drawing its territory from Delta North, from the so called South South geopolitical zone.
The question is simple but explosive: which better serves the Southeast’s political and cultural balance — Etiti or Anioma?
A Call for Balance and Representation
Many in the South East have long argued that the region remains politically shortchanged, having only five states compared to six in most other regions and seven in the North West.
The creation of either Etiti or Anioma would correct this imbalance and strengthen Igbo representation at the federal level.
Proponents of Etiti State describe it as a fair and inclusive project, designed to unite Igbo-speaking communities currently divided among different states.
The proposed local governments are drawn from Imo (Okigwe, Onuimo, Isiala Mbano, Ehime Mbano, Obowo, Ihitte/Uboma, Ideato North); Abia (Isuikwuato, Umunneochi); Ebonyi (Onicha, Ohaozara, Ivo); Anambra (Orumba North, Orumba South); and Enugu (Awgu, Oji River, Aninri).
Advocates say Etiti would “bring governance closer to the people” and finally give interior Igbo communities a development identity of their own.
It would also open a new economic corridor linking Imo, Abia, and Anambra.
Anioma’s Argument for Inclusion
Supporters of Anioma State, however, say their demand predates this new Etiti agitation. The Anioma people — who occupy Delta North — have long seen themselves as part of the broader Igbo family but politically cut off by being placed under the South-South zone.
The proposed Anioma State would include Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North East, Ika South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ukwuani LGAs.
Senator Nwoko and other Anioma advocates argue that creating the state would “complete the Igbo map” and bring long-overdue equity to the Southeast.
It would also bridge economic divides between the oil-rich Delta region and the inland Igbo heartland — a potential model for unity and shared prosperity.
While both proposals stir excitement, the road to new state creation is notoriously steep – some say, near impracticable. Section 8 of the Nigerian Constitution demands wide legislative approval, state assemblies’ consent, and even referendums among affected communities.
Still, this renewed push has rekindled hope. To many, it’s not just about boundaries — it’s about identity, inclusion, shared affinity and prosperity, fairness, and visibility in a federation where political representation often determines development.
Could Etiti be the bridge that reconnects the heart of Igboland? Or is Anioma the missing piece that completes the Southeast puzzle?
Etiti or Anioma State? Drop your preferred choice — and your reasons — in the comment section below. Let your voice be part of this defining conversation for the Southeast’s future.
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