Senior Lawyer Nwafor-Orizu Advocates Creation of Anioma State to Address Regional Imbalance

By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja

A senior legal practitioner and principal partner at Friends Chambers, Prince Orji Nwafor-Orizu, has expressed strong support for the proposed creation of Anioma State, a bill recently introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North.
During a press interview at his chambers, Nwafor-Orizu described Anioma as “the second state that must be created,” emphasizing that its establishment would promote regional integration and address what he called a long-standing historical injustice against the South East.

He pointed out that all geopolitical zones in Nigeria currently have six states each—except the North West, which has seven—while the South East has only five. According to him, this disparity deprives the region of three senators, ministerial positions, and equitable revenue allocation.
Addressing concerns that creating a new state could put pressure on national resources, the lawyer argued that the issue is not about forming an additional state but correcting an existing imbalance. He maintained that the South East has been unfairly treated for too long and deserves redress.
Nwafor-Orizu also welcomed the endorsement of the proposal by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during the recent South South All Progressives Congress congress held in Asaba. He described the support as significant, noting that Akpabio’s leadership role in the South South would help advance the initiative.
He cautioned that failure to create Anioma State would leave the South East with inadequate representation in the Senate and fewer ministerial opportunities, which could have serious consequences for the region’s development.
Rejecting suggestions that the agitation is politically motivated, Nwafor-Orizu insisted that the demand is rooted in fairness and the need for regional balance. He stressed that the call is not for preferential treatment but for justice.
On the process involved, he explained that the creation of Anioma State would require a constitutional amendment, which must be approved by the Senate, the House of Representatives, and supported by the Nigerian populace. He also underscored the importance of the media in raising awareness about the proposal.
Responding to concerns that granting Anioma State could lead to increased demands for more states, he clarified that the case is unique and not intended to set a precedent. According to him, the move is simply aimed at correcting a historical imbalance.
He highlighted potential benefits of the proposed state, including increased Senate representation, additional ministerial slots, and improved revenue allocation. These, he said, would enhance regional integration and contribute positively to national development.
While acknowledging that there is no fixed timeline for the realization of the proposal, Nwafor-Orizu stated that efforts are ongoing to secure the necessary legislative backing. He called on Nigerians to support the creation of Anioma State as a step toward fairness and equity.