S’South: Why Nigerians should support Anioma state creation – Comrade Osaretin

The push for the creation of Anioma State has gained momentum, with Comrade Bello Osaretin Elmikado Drixxo, National Coordinator of PLAN Nigeria, strongly advocating for its realization.

According to him, the move, championed by Senator Ned Nwoko, is a well-intended initiative aimed at fostering equitable development in the South-South geopolitical zone.

In a statement made available to newsmen, Wednesday in Abuja, Comrade Osaretin emphasized that the demand for Anioma State is not excessive but rather a necessary step to compensate a region that significantly contributes to Nigeria’s economy. He noted that despite being home to the country’s vast oil wealth, the South-South has not benefited fairly from previous state creation exercises carried out under military regimes, including those of Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha.

“The advocacy for an additional state in the South-South is a call for justice. It is a strategic move to draw national and global attention to the environmental devastation caused by multinational oil companies operating in the region,” he stated.

He further stressed that Anioma State meets all constitutional requirements for state creation, describing it as viable, well-populated, economically sustainable, politically vibrant, and socio-culturally balanced.

“Anioma State is not just a demand; it is a necessity. The people deserve recognition, and this initiative will strengthen national unity and development. I stand firmly with Senator Ned Nwoko in this bold move. This is not just a regional agenda but a national consensus,” Comrade Osaretin declared.

With the proposal now before the National Assembly, he called on Nigerians to lend their support, urging lawmakers to act in the interest of fairness and sustainable development.