Rights group urges National Assembly to consider creation of Anioma State

A rights advocacy group, the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR), has called on the National Assembly to prioritise the creation of Anioma State, saying the move would address long-standing demands for greater representation and equity. The group made the appeal in an open letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House […]

A rights advocacy group, the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights (ISSJHR), has called on the National Assembly to prioritise the creation of Anioma State, saying the move would address long-standing demands for greater representation and equity.

The group made the appeal in an open letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and other members of the National Assembly.

In the letter dated August 21, 2025, the Chancellor of the society, Dr. Omenazu Jackson, noted that the request for Anioma State had featured repeatedly in state creation exercises and constitutional conferences since the 1970s.

According to him, the call is not new but reflects a longstanding aspiration of the Anioma people. “From the Murtala/Obasanjo administration to the 1996 state creation exercise under General Sani Abacha, Anioma leaders and delegations have consistently presented memoranda seeking recognition,” he said.

Dr. Jackson added that the creation of Anioma State would contribute to national cohesion, strengthen Nigeria’s federal structure, and promote fairness in representation. He said the proposal should be seen as part of efforts to deepen democracy and ensure inclusiveness.

He commended Senator Ned Nwoko for bringing renewed attention to the issue, stressing that Anioma leaders and groups had consistently championed the cause over the years.

Jackson outlined the potential benefits of creating Anioma State to include fostering unity, enhancing political participation, and supporting balanced development. “Anioma State will serve as a beacon of hope—not just for the people of Anioma, but for all Nigerians who believe in equity as the foundation of nationhood,” he said.

The group urged lawmakers to consider the request in line with constitutional provisions, noting that its realization would mark a significant step toward addressing historical demands for state creation.