The lawmaker representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Constituency in the House of Representatives, Amobi Ogah of the Labour Party (LP), has announced that the bill for the creation of a new state in the South-East has passed its second reading.
Speaking at a town hall meeting over the weekend, Ogah revealed that the bill is advancing to the next stage in the legislative process.
He proposed Etiti as the name for the new state, emphasizing that its creation would bring the South-East in line with other geopolitical zones, which have more than five states each.
According to Ogah, the addition of a sixth state would accelerate development in the region.
He further stated that President Bola Tinubu is supportive of the move and has already taken steps to address the marginalization of the South-East, including the establishment of the South-East Development Commission.
Describing the proposed Etiti State as an equitable arrangement, Ogah explained that each of the existing five South-East states would contribute at least two local government areas (LGAs) to form the new state. He urged unity among the people of the region to support the initiative.
“The proposed state will consist of 11 LGAs, with Abia contributing Isuikwuato and Umunneochi; Anambra contributing Orumba North and Orumba South; Imo providing Okigwe and Onuimo; Ebonyi donating Ivo and Ohozara; and Enugu offering Aninri, Awgu, and Oji River,” he detailed.
Ogah emphasized that these councils have been among the most neglected in their respective states, and the creation of Etiti State would give them a stronger voice and a greater sense of belonging.
