The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has reiterated his support for the creation of an additional state in the South-East, proposing a unifying “Animoma” model as a practical pathway to achieving the long-standing demand.

Kalu, who also chairs the Constitution Review Committee, made this known while receiving stakeholders of the Anioma State Movement during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

He stressed that state creation requires broad-based consultation and cannot be pursued in isolation, noting that collaboration with governors and key stakeholders across the South-East and South-South regions is essential.

“You can’t do this without the governors of the South-East and South-South. It is our duty to pass bills, but critical stakeholders must be involved. If you ask me between having Anioma State and Anim State, I would prefer a fusion, Animoma, so that the two brothers can come together as one,” Kalu said.

He urged advocates of separate state proposals to embrace compromise, emphasising that unity among stakeholders would strengthen the case for the creation of a new state.

“Whoever is proposing in isolation must be ready to give up some and accept some so that brothers can unite and work together. Anything outside this approach is a waste of time,” he added.

On the issue of a proposed state capital, the Deputy Speaker noted that its location would be determined through negotiation and democratic consensus among stakeholders.

Kalu further assured that the Constitution Review Committee would continue to prioritise the creation of an additional state in the South-East, while commending Senator Ned Nwoko for his sustained advocacy for the Anioma cause.

He outlined key criteria for state creation, including geographical considerations, historical and cultural identity, economic viability, political dynamics, and regional alignment. “We must ask: who are our neighbours? Who is joining us? Why should they join us? These are the core indicators we must evaluate as we move forward,” he said.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation and proponent of Anioma State, Nwoko, said their visit was to appreciate the Deputy Speaker’s support for the agitation.