Ned Nwoko Urges FG to Create Anioma State and Free Nnamdi Kanu for Lasting Peace in South-East

In a pointed intervention, Ned Nwoko, Senator representing Delta North, urged the Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) to move swiftly on two major measures the creation of a new state  proposed as Anioma State  and the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), if lasting peace is to be restored in the South-East.

According to Legit.ng, Nwoko argued that “peace will remain elusive in the South-East unless the federal government addresses what he described as a deep-rooted sense of marginalisation.”  

Grievances and the call for state creation

Nwoko flagged that the South-East region comprises five states  one fewer than most other geopolitical zones in Nigeria  a factor he says drives the perception of unfair treatment. He told the media

“The problem in the South-East has to do with perceived injustice by successive governments… What needs to be done … is the creation of a new state to make up the number to six, and then the release of Nnamdi Kanu.” Reported by Legit.ng

He described the Anioma State proposal as “the best gift” the President could offer the Igbo people.

Releasing Nnamdi Kanu: A political move for peace

On the matter of Kanu, who has been in custody pending terrorism-related charges, Nwoko described his continued detention as unjust and a key barrier to reconciliation in the region.

“A political solution would be more effective than prolonged legal proceedings,” he said, advocating for dialogue over confrontation.  According to Legit.ng

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While the senator’s remarks are bold, they come against a backdrop of noted constitutional complexity. According to the House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, none of the 31 state-creation requests so far have satisfied the constitutional requirements for amendment.

This suggests that even as the Anioma State proposal gains traction, it must still navigate considerable legislative and legal processes.

If the FG accedes to Nwoko’s two-pronged demand, the South-East could see a recalibration of its political structure  an extra state offering increased representation and a high-profile release signalling inclusive governance.

On the flip side, critics warn that without widespread buy-in from other stakeholders  state governments, regional leaders, constitutional committees  the move may ignite fresh tension rather than resolve it.

In Nwoko’s words

“Release Nnamdi Kanu and create Anioma State then we can talk about real peace in the South-East.”

As Nigeria’s political class watches closely, the question remains whether these bold proposals will translate into actionable change or simply fuel further debate.