Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu Endorses Creation of Additional South-East State, Suggests Anioma Fusion

Abuja — Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has renewed his support for the creation of an additional state in Nigeria’s South-East region, urging proponents to consider adopting Anioma as a strategic solution.

Kalu made the remarks while receiving a delegation from the Anioma State Movement, led by Senator Ned Nwoko, on a courtesy visit. Anioma represents a proposed fusion of Anambra, Imo, and the proposed Anioma State in the Igbo-speaking part of Delta State.

“The creation of a new state cannot happen in isolation. It requires collaboration with governors and key stakeholders across both the South-East and South-South,” Kalu said. He proposed a “fusion”—Animoma—bringing together supporters from both sides to strengthen the initiative.

Kalu emphasized that compromise and unity are essential, noting that only through collective agreement can the state creation effort succeed. He also stated that the location of the proposed state capital should emerge through negotiation and democratic consensus.

As Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Kalu reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the creation of a new South-East state while commending Sen. Nwoko for his sustained advocacy. He outlined key criteria guiding the process, including geographical considerations, historical and cultural identity, economic viability, political dynamics, and regional alignment.

The delegation highlighted the longstanding nature of the Anioma quest, describing it as a decades-long effort for the Igbo-speaking communities in Delta State to fully assert their identity as Ndi Igbo. His Royal Highness Henry Kikachukwu, King of Ubulu-uno Delta, stressed that the initiative is a collective community goal, not a personal ambition.