In a renewed push for equity and balance among Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, Distinguished Senator Ned Munir Nwoko alongside Chamberlain Ekenechukwu, Kenny Okolugbo, Dr. Chris Okoba, Engr. Emma Egbo, and other key stakeholders, paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Benjamin Kalu, at the National Assembly, Abuja.The visit centered on seeking the Deputy Speaker’s support for the creation of Anioma State, which would fulfill the long-standing call for an additional state in the South East geopolitical zone, thereby ensuring parity with other regions in the country.
In his remarks, Deputy Speaker Kalu commended the delegation for their commitment to the cause, affirming that the demand for a new state in the South East is gaining deserved national attention. He disclosed that several state proposals have been submitted to the Constitution Review Committee of the National Assembly, including Anioma, among others.
“We cannot go into this process divided. The South East must present one strong candidate. Whether it is Anioma or another, whichever state emerges must have sound justification—historical, geopolitical, and economic,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker further revealed that a crucial consultative meeting would hold in Owerri, where lobbying and consensus-building among stakeholders would take place. He emphasized the need for unity and strategic advocacy, advising the Anioma delegation to “sell Anioma as gold” in their presentations.
“Senator Nwoko cannot do it alone, no matter how influential or resourceful he is. The governors, stakeholders, and people of the region must come together. I am not against any proposal; I am only in support of what will make the South East stronger, better, and more balanced. Let the best option win,” Kalu stated.
In response, Senator Ned Nwoko expressed appreciation to the Deputy Speaker for his open-mindedness, guidance, and commitment to fairness, assuring that the Anioma delegation will continue to champion the cause with unity and purpose for the overall good of the South East and Nigeria at large.