There are strong indications that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may approve the creation of just one new state once the National Assembly and State Assemblies complete the necessary legislative procedures.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to sources in Abuja on Friday, Anioma State—a proposed state aimed at addressing feelings of marginalisation among South-Easterners—is likely to be the only creation emerging from the current process.

Sources familiar with the matter told Vanguard that consultations among key interest groups are at an advanced stage, particularly regarding whether Anioma should be included in the South-East geopolitical zone.

The debate has intensified following renewed calls by Senator Ned Nwoko for a united Igbo front supporting Anioma State as the sixth state in the South-East, which currently has the fewest states in the federation.

However, some groups in Delta State oppose including Anioma in the South-East, arguing it should instead be carved out of the South-South, raising that region’s number of states to seven.

Despite these competing views, sources close to the Presidency said Anioma State is the only proposal being seriously considered.

“Anioma State would be created to compensate the South-East region and Ndigbo in general,” a presidential source said.

The source explained that while President Tinubu is aware of all perspectives, he considers Anioma the most viable option among several requests for state creation.

“He is also focused on achieving geopolitical balance, equity, fair representation, and justice, particularly to address the feelings of marginalisation expressed by Ndigbo,” the source added.

The Presidency source also dismissed alternative proposals, such as the “Anim‑Oma State,” which would combine parts of Anioma in Delta, the old Orlu Zone in Imo, and Ihiala LGA in Anambra, with Orlu as its capital.

Under the current plan favoured in Abuja, the new Anioma State would have Asaba as its capital, though details could change before final approval.

While the timing of a meeting between President Tinubu and stakeholders remains unclear, sources say it is expected after consultations with the National Assembly leadership, which reportedly broadly supports the initiative.

Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North and a key advocate for Anioma, expressed optimism that the effort will soon succeed.

“This is a historic movement that has never enjoyed this level of national attention and support. It is a golden opportunity for the Igbo people to reunite with their kith and kin across the Niger,” he said, noting that over 90 senators have declared support for the creation of Anioma State.