—Chidoka Calls for Action to End Economic and Political Marginalisation

Abuja, Nigeria — December 13, 2024 – The Southeast region of Nigeria has suffered an estimated loss of ₦17.4 trillion over the past 29 years due to the absence of a sixth state, according to Chief Osita Chidoka, Chancellor of the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership and former Minister of Aviation. The figure, adjusted for inflation and currency devaluation, highlights the significant economic and political impact on the region’s federal allocations, governance, and representation.

Chief Chidoka made this declaration during his address at the Otu Oka-Iwu (Association of Igbo Lawyers) event held on December 13, 2024. He described the lack of a sixth state as a critical issue that has deepened the Southeast’s marginalisation while depriving it of resources that could have accelerated development.

“The absence of a sixth state in the Southeast is not just a political oversight but a direct financial loss for our region. Over the past 29 years, the Southeast has lost over ₦17 trillion, which could have fueled economic development, improved infrastructure, and enhanced our political representation in the National Assembly,” Chidoka stated. “This loss is unsustainable, and it is time for us to come together and take the necessary steps to stop these ongoing losses.”

Calling for a united approach, Chidoka urged Southeast leaders to leverage the constitutional process for state creation, as outlined in Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution. He explained that the process involves formal requests, legislative approvals, referendums, and nationwide consensus.

“Now is the time for the Southeast to formally request the creation of the sixth state, following the prescribed constitutional process. This is the only way to stop the representation and federal allocation losses,” he said.

Chidoka further emphasised the need for political unity among Southeast leaders, urging them to engage in national politics with a shared agenda. “We must stop crying about the absence of the sixth state and instead focus on what is required to make it a reality. The Southeast must place the burden on the Nigerian state to officially recognise our need for equitable representation, resources, and political power,” he concluded.

The event also featured Senator Ned Nwoko, who passionately advocated for the creation of Anioma State as the sixth Igbo state. According to Senator Nwoko, Anioma State would expand Igbo territorial boundaries by an additional 9,000 square kilometres, strengthening the Southeast’s political and economic influence.

Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for political will and a coordinated push by the region’s leadership. He called for sustained advocacy to ensure the demand for a sixth state gains national recognition and the momentum required for success.

The call for the creation of a sixth state, as championed by Chief Osita Chidoka and other regional leaders, signals a decisive step towards addressing decades of underrepresentation and underdevelopment in the Southeast.