By Ekunkonye Junior, Abuja
Prince Orji Nwafor-Orizu, Principal Partner at Friends Chambers and a constitutional lawyer, has thrown his weight behind the demand for the creation of Anioma State, a bill recently moved by Senator Ned Nwoko of Delta North.
Speaking during a press interview at his chambers, Nwafor-Orizu described Anioma as “the second state that must be created” for the sake of regional integration and to correct what he termed a historical injustice against the South East.
He noted that all geopolitical zones in Nigeria have six states each, except the North West with seven, while the South East has only five.
“This means that the South East is being deprived of three senators, ministers, and revenue allocation,” he said.
Responding to concerns that a new state would strain national resources, the lawyer argued that the demand is not about creating a new state but about correcting an imbalance.
“The South East has been shortchanged for too long, and it’s time we addressed this,” he stated.
Nwafor-Orizu welcomed the support expressed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the recent South South All Progressives Congress congress in Asaba, describing it as crucial.
“He’s the leader of the South South Zone, and his support will go a long way in pushing this agenda forward,” he said.
He warned that failure to create Anioma State would mean the South East continues to suffer deficient representation in the Senate and ministerial appointments, with “far-reaching implications for the region’s development.”
Dismissing claims that the push is a political move, Nwafor-Orizu insisted it is a matter of fairness and regional integration.
“We are not asking for special treatment, but for what is rightfully ours,” he said.
On the way forward, he explained that creating Anioma State requires a constitutional amendment, which needs the backing of the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Nigerian people.
He stressed the role of the media in sensitizing the public on the importance of the move.
Addressing fears that it could trigger more demands for states, he clarified that the case of Anioma is specific and not about setting a precedent.
“A normal state is not a new concept. It’s about correcting a historical injustice,” he added.
He listed the benefits of Anioma State to include increased Senate representation, more ministerial slots, and higher revenue allocation, all of which would promote regional integration and positively impact national development.
While the timeline remains uncertain, he said work is ongoing to secure legislative support.
He urged all Nigerians to back the creation of Anioma State as an opportunity to promote fairness.
