A major political shift may soon redefine Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical structure as the Senate has officially passed the second reading of a bill proposing the creation of a new state named Anim. The bill, which is now before the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, marks a significant step toward addressing long-standing complaints of marginalisation from the South-East region.
What Is Anim State And Why Is It Needed?
According to the bill’s sponsor, Senator Osita Izunaso (APC, Imo West), Anim State will be carved out of existing parts of Imo and Anambra States, two of the five states currently in Nigeria’s South-East zone. If approved, Anim will become the sixth state in the region, bringing the South-East on par with other zones in terms of state count.
“This is not a favour; it is about fairness,” Izunaso said during a press briefing in Abuja. “Every other zone has six states. The South-East is the only zone with five. This bill seeks to correct that injustice based on the federal character principle.”
Current State Distribution In Nigeria’s Zones
Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones are unevenly balanced in terms of state representation:
North-West – 7 states
North-East – 6 states
North-Central – 6 states
South-West – 6 states
South-South – 6 states
South-East – 5 states
The South-East, despite being one of the most densely populated regions and a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy and human capital, has long complained of being shortchanged in national representation, political appointments, and resource allocation due to this imbalance.
What’s Next For The Anim State Bill?
With the second reading now complete, the bill will proceed to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, which will begin consultations and prepare for a referendum involving the affected communities.
“You cannot create a state by fiat. The people must agree democratically through a referendum,” Senator Izunaso explained, emphasizing that due process must be followed, as required by Section 8 of the Nigerian Constitution.
The constitutional provision mandates that a bill for state creation must be approved by:
A simple majority in the National Assembly,
Two-thirds of the state assemblies in Nigeria,
A referendum within the affected areas.
Implications: Regional Balance, Political Equity
If successful, the creation of Anim State will not only balance the South-East with other zones but could also open doors for increased federal presence, development projects, and political representation, including a possible additional Senate seat and more members in the House of Representatives.
Call For Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Also Reignites
Alongside the state creation push, Senator Izunaso also called for a political solution to the prolonged detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). He argued that releasing Kanu could help de-escalate tension and restore peace in the region.
“The struggle has been hijacked by criminals. Releasing Kanu will strip them of legitimacy,” Izunaso stated.
His comments came shortly after a judge ordered Kanu’s terrorism trial to be moved to the DSS headquarters, where a container allegedly containing a Radio Biafra transmitter will be inspected.
Conclusion: A New Dawn For The South-East?
The Anim State bill is more than a political document; it represents the South-East’s quest for equity, recognition, and true federalism in Nigeria. With rising voices supporting restructuring and inclusivity, this development may spark more demands for adjustments in Nigeria’s geopolitical balance.
If passed, Anim State will become Nigeria’s 37th state — a historic step in the country’s evolving democratic structure.
