Anim-Oma State: South-East Leaders Speak on New State Proposal

Let’s be honest: the constitution currently does not allow for the creation of a new state from the South-South. The only available slot is in the South-East. Out of love and brotherhood, we stepped aside to allow our Anioma brothers to push their agenda. You didn’t reject it—instead, you began planning how to claim the new state while still remaining in the South-South, leaving the South-East to manage the imbalance alone.

Now that we’ve proposed bringing Orlu, Ihiala, and Anioma together to form Anim-Oma State, with Orlu as the capital, sudden protests have emerged, with claims that we want to take the capital from Asaba. Let’s be clear: if this is unacceptable, perhaps the idea of the state should be reconsidered altogether. The South-East can easily fall back on other proposed states we previously abandoned to give this chance to the South-South.

What hurts most is the current sentiment that some no longer want to be associated with us. History reminds us, however, that some of these actions contributed to the civil war, the impact of which is still felt today. Similarly, the prolonged resistance during the Ekumeku War—lasting nearly 30 years—led the British to distrust our tribe and consolidate power in the North.

Regardless of support or opposition, the Igbo remain one of the top three most successful ethnic groups globally and the most successful in Africa. But let it be known: if this opportunity is lost, the South-East will stop backing the creation of Anioma State. Instead, support will shift to Ogoja State or other proposals from the South-South.

We have always demonstrated love and unity—but we will not continue to lose while trying to help others. The choice now lies with the Anioma people.