South-East leaders back ANIM State, seek national support for constitutional approval

By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja

Leaders from Nigeria’s South-East have expressed unified support for the proposed creation of ANIM State, urging national backing as the constitutional amendment process continues.

A delegation from Imo and Anambra states, including lawmakers, traditional rulers, and local government officials, met with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, to commend his role in fostering consensus on the proposal.

Senator Osita Izunaso, representing Imo West, said the initiative enjoys broad regional support and has already secured legislative approval at the constituency level. He also highlighted infrastructure developments in the proposed capital, Orlu, including upgraded roads, functional hospitals, a government house, and operational universities, positioning the area for the new state.

“We are ready and only waiting for the pronouncement of ANIM State,” Izunaso said.

Deputy Speaker Kalu described state creation as a tool for development rather than political status and noted the South-East’s current disadvantage as the only geopolitical zone with five states, compared to six in other regions.

He emphasised that achieving approval would require strategic negotiation, national consensus, and collaboration with governors and lawmakers across Nigeria.

“You must build friendships across the North, South-West, and South-South because they will be in the room when the vote is called,” Kalu advised, stressing flexibility during negotiations to accommodate broader interests.

The renewed push for ANIM State coincides with the ongoing constitutional amendment process, which is reopening discussions on state creation and other reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s federal system.

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