By Marietta Munachimso
The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, a prominent independent, non-partisan body dedicated to promoting Igbo interests, has formally advocated for the creation of Anioma State in an open letter addressed to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. The letter outlines the socio-economic, cultural, and political advantages of prioritizing Anioma State as part of Nigeria’s efforts to address Igbo marginalization.
UNIEC emphasizes that the Igbo region remains underserved, citing fewer states, local government areas, and minimal federal presence compared to other regions. This disparity impacts development, governance, and socio-political equity. The creation of Anioma State is positioned as a strategic move to foster balanced representation and catalyze growth.
The letter also highlights the historical and cultural ties of Anioma people with their Igbo kinsmen and the need to resolve long-standing grievances. UNIEC leaders argue that this state would promote unity, enhance regional development, and serve as a beacon of fairness in Nigeria’s federal structure.
The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, in its open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighted several key points advocating for the creation of Anioma State. Below are the main contents of the letter:
- Advocacy for Anioma State: UNIEC unequivocally supports the creation of Anioma State, emphasizing it as the top priority among other proposed states in the Southeast. The council considers this a step toward addressing the long-standing marginalization of the Igbo people in Nigeria’s federal structure.
- Addressing Igbo Marginalization: The council pointed out inequalities such as fewer states and local government areas (LGAs) in the Southeast compared to other regions, resulting in reduced federal allocations, underdevelopment, and minimal federal presence.
- Cultural and Historical Unity: The letter underscores the deep cultural and linguistic ties between Anioma people and their Igbo kinsmen across the Niger River. Creating Anioma State would enhance these bonds and promote regional unity.
- Economic and Developmental Benefits: UNIEC outlined the advantages of Anioma State, including:
Resolving political and administrative challenges within Delta State.
Providing opportunities for balanced development with dual state capitals.
Allowing the Anioma people to govern their affairs and address decades of neglect.
- Symbol of Federal Sympathy and Inclusion: The council highlighted the historical contributions and sacrifices of the Anioma people, including their service during Nigeria’s civil war. The creation of Anioma State would serve as recognition and compensation for their suffering.
- Support for Other Proposed States: While advocating for Anioma State as a priority, UNIEC clarified that it does not oppose the creation of other states such as Aba, Adada, Orlu, and others. The council supports equitable state creation across Nigeria.
- Appeal to President Tinubu: UNIEC called on the President to act decisively to ensure the creation of Anioma State, framing it as an act of justice, fairness, and love for the Igbo people.
The letter was signed by eminent Igbo leaders, including His Lordship, Hon. Justice Anthony I. Iguh, CON. Emeritus Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria (National President).
His Lordship,
Justice Alpha Ikpeama
Director General
Prof. Chinedu Nebo. Emeritus Vice Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
(Deputy National President)
His Lordship (Bishop)
Dennis Jacobs
National Chairman, Inter – Religiuos Affairs
Professor Nick Eze.
Nat. Chairman, Police Affairs.
Emeritus Archbishop, Most Revd.Emmanuel Chukwuma, formerly of the Good Shepherd, Enugu
(Spiritual Father/Mentor)
Professor Pat Utomi. Professor of Political Economy & Management
(Member Nat. Advisory Council)
Prof. Uzodinma Nwala. Founding President, Alaigbo Devt Foundation (ADF)
( Nat.Patron/ Advisory Council Member)
Iyom Josephine Anenih. Fmr. Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development
(Patroness)
His Excellency,
Pastor Michael Obierika
(Secretary, Board of Trustees)
H E Amb. Dr, Obiora Odumah.
National Chairman, UNIEC Stakeholders Forum.
Eze Fyneface Amaechi. Ozuzu Ancient Kingdom, Rivers State.
(Rivers State Chapter President)
Prof. Obasi Igwe.
Director, Media and Publicity.
