…calls for Federal Government Action

By Chimaobi Nwaiwu

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) has formally endorsed the creation of Anioma State, urging President Bola Tinubu to take action on the matter.

In a statement titled “United Igbo Elders Council, UNIEC, Worldwide Continues to Advocate for the Creation of Anioma State,” signed by its Director General, Justice Alpha Ikpeama, and Director of Media and Publicity, Prof. Obasi Igwe, along with 11 other council members, the group emphasized that while they support the creation of other states in the South East, Anioma State should be given priority.

The council stated, “We are not opposed to the creation of states such as Aba, Adada, Etiti, Njaba, Orashi, Orlu, or any other in the Southeast. However, we strongly advocate that Anioma State be prioritized among all others.”

The statement also highlighted the long-standing neglect of the Igbo people in the Nigerian political structure and explained that the creation of Anioma State is essential due to the unique circumstances of the Anioma region.

“We urge His Excellency, the President, to heed the call of the Anioma people and the Igbo nation for the creation of Anioma State,” the council added. “This cause has long been endorsed, with a public declaration made at the Asaba Stakeholders Summit on August 31, 2024.”

UNIEC believes that the establishment of Anioma State will foster balanced development in the region, contributing to the creation of two key development poles in the zone and throughout Nigeria.