The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has reiterated his support for the creation of an additional state in Nigeria’s South East region, proposing a compromise model he described as “Animoma” to foster unity among stakeholders.
Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, spoke on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving members of the Anioma State Movement during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
He stressed that inclusivity, dialogue, and regional consensus remain critical to achieving the long-standing demand for state creation in the South-East.
According to him, the process cannot succeed in isolation, noting that collaboration with governors and key stakeholders across both the South-East and South-South regions is indispensable.
“You can’t do this without the governors of the South-East and South-South. It is our duty to pass bills, but critical stakeholders must be involved,” he said.
Kalu explained that rather than choosing between Anioma State and other proposals such as Anim State, a unified “Animoma” arrangement would provide a practical pathway for progress.
He urged proponents of separate state proposals to embrace compromise, warning that pursuing fragmented agendas could undermine the overall objective.
“Whoever is proposing in isolation must be ready to give up some and accept some so that brothers can unite and work together,” he stated.
On the issue of the proposed state capital, the Deputy Speaker said the final decision would emerge through negotiation and democratic consensus among stakeholders, adding that while the proposal is achievable, its success depends largely on the willingness of all parties to engage constructively and with urgency.
Reaffirming his commitment, Kalu assured that the Constitution Review Committee would continue to prioritise the push for an additional state in the South-East, while commending Ned Nwoko for his sustained advocacy.
Senator Ned Nwoko, who led the delegation, had earlier said the visit was to appreciate Kalu’s support, while other stakeholders maintained that the creation of Anioma State is a long-standing demand aimed at ensuring full cultural identity and proper representation within the South-East geopolitical zone.
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