Speaking to journalists in Enugu, the National President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, urged the National Assembly to abandon any plans to establish Orlu State. He described the proposal as a threat to stability in the South-East, contradicting the principles of equity and justice.
Okwu emphasized that while the South-East region indeed seeks an additional state to achieve parity with other regions, the push for Orlu State is driven by a selfish and divisive agenda. He warned that such a move would exacerbate feelings of marginalization within the zone.
According to Okwu, “The National Confab report, endorsed by Nigerians nationwide, serves as a comprehensive guide for the reform of Nigeria, including state creation. In that report, there was a clear mention of Etiti State, which represents all parts of the South-East. There is no mention of Orlu State in the Confab report.”
He detailed that the proposed Etiti State would include parts of all five existing states in the South-East, namely:
– Orumba South, Orumba North (Anambra)
– Awgu, Aninri, Oji River (Enugu)
– Afikpo North, Afikpo South, Ivo (Ebonyi)
– Ehime Mbano, Okigwe, Onuimo (Imo)
– Umunneochi and Isuikwuato (Abia)
Okwu argued, “It is unthinkable for anyone to disrupt the collective interest of the South-East for a personal agenda.”
He pointed out that the widespread rejection of the Orlu State proposal underscores its self-serving nature, lack of inclusivity, and inadequate consultation. Okwu urged the National Assembly to avoid legislation that could ignite conflict in the South-East. Instead, he recommended focusing on the overdue creation of Etiti State, which would be a fair and just action.
“The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide calls on the bill’s sponsor to withdraw it from further consideration, as it is not only provocative but also incendiary,” Okwu concluded.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
