Hon. David Nwaenyi, Ph.D.
27-03-2026 – Abuja
Recent comments attributed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio on the proposed creation of Anioma State have stirred renewed debate across the South-South and South-East regions. While presented in the spirit of goodwill, a closer examination reveals a narrative that raises critical questions about constitutional compliance, political intent, and regional equity.
With my full participation in the process, I can authoritatively inform you that Anioma agitation did not satisfy the requirements outlined in Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which clearly stipulates the procedural and democratic thresholds for state creation.
Confirmed reports before my office indicate that key stakeholders within Delta North; including local government executives, members of the State House of Assembly, and traditional rulers, did not provide the necessary support for the proposal. These are not minor considerations; they are fundamental constitutional prerequisites.
It is therefore important to interrogate the basis upon which assurances or optimistic projections about Anioma State are being made. By his own admission “assuming it had passed through” the Senate President acknowledged that the process had not been concluded. This raises a fundamental concern: how does one advocate the benefits of a proposal whose procedural legitimacy remains unsettled?
This suggests that such statements may be more political than procedural; aimed at managing sentiments rather than reflecting institutional realities. It is not uncommon in our political space for public pronouncements to be shaped by immediate political considerations, including the need to appease certain constituencies or respond to high-profile advocates of a cause.
However, matters of constitutional importance; such as state creation, must rise above symbolism and sentiment. They demand clarity, legality, unambiguous statements, and broad-based consensus.
For the people of the South East, this moment calls for heightened awareness and strategic focus. History has shown that opportunities for structural balance within Nigeria’s federal system are rare and often contested. It would be a grave mistake to be distracted by narratives that do not align with constitutional processes or regional interests.
The South East must remain resolute in pursuing what rightfully belongs to it; equity in representation, fairness in federal structure, and the creation of an additional state to correct longstanding imbalance.
In this regard, the ANIM State creation effort stands on firm ground. It is not driven by media optics or political convenience, but by structured advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and holistic constitutional compliance approach. The momentum is real, the support is growing, and the process is advancing.
If you will believe anything; believe that ANIM State is underway, and nothing will stop it. Because it is not merely a regional aspiration; it is a national imperative rooted in #justice, #inclusion, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s #unity.
The time has come for sincerity in leadership, adherence to constitutional order, and committed devotion to equity.
We must remain vigilant.
The process must remain credible.
And the goal must remain clear.
~ Dr. David Nwaenyi (Ugwudịnanwa)
(National Publicity Secretary, ANIM State Creation Movement)
