The National Assembly has approved the creation of an additional state in Nigeria’s South East region, a development that has ignited renewed discussions about regional balance and political inclusion.

Following the approval, six state proposals — Orashi, Orlu, Anioma, Etiti, Aba, and Adada — have been shortlisted for consideration, as the region moves closer to achieving parity with other geopolitical zones that have six or more states.

Proposals Under Consideration

Lawmakers are currently reviewing the six options, each rooted in historical, cultural, and administrative significance across the region:

Orashi State: To be carved out of parts of Anambra, Imo, and Rivers States. Supporters say it would strengthen economic and administrative links between the South East and South South.

Orlu State: A long-standing demand within the South East, supported by regional leaders advocating greater local representation.

Anioma State: Proposed to unite communities with shared cultural and linguistic identities within the South East zone.

Etiti State: Conceived to bring together central South East communities for improved administrative coordination.

Aba State: Named after the commercial capital of Abia State, this proposal is seen as a pathway to stronger economic development and trade opportunities.

Adada State: Expected to emerge from northern Enugu, giving voice to previously underrepresented communities in that area.

Political Significance and Regional Impact

The approval marks a major stride toward correcting Nigeria’s long-standing regional imbalance. For years, the South East has had only five states, compared to six or more in other zones — a situation many believe has limited its political leverage and access to federal resources.

Analysts say the creation of a sixth state will not only ensure fairer representation but could also reshape the region’s political structure and enhance federal participation.

Next Steps in the Process

While the National Assembly’s approval is a milestone, the final creation of the new state will still require constitutional amendments and presidential assent. Lawmakers and stakeholders across the South East are now expected to intensify lobbying to secure adoption of their preferred proposals.

Several related bills have already scaled second reading in the House of Representatives, signaling growing momentum for restructuring Nigeria’s geopolitical landscape.

Observers note that whichever proposal is eventually approved could redefine the map of the South East and set a precedent for further constitutional reforms across the country.

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Abuja, Nigeria – April 17, 2025 — The House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight has officially summoned the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), for an urgent interactive session as part of ongoing legislative oversight efforts.

This move follows the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, prompting the House to intensify scrutiny over governance and security developments in the region.

Committee Formed to Address Rivers Crisis

The Ad-Hoc Committee, chaired by House Leader Hon. (Prof.) Julius Ihonvbere, was inaugurated on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen. During its first sitting at the National Assembly Complex, the committee reviewed early reports and discussed the rapidly shifting political and security landscape in Rivers State.

Invoking its constitutional oversight powers under Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the committee resolved to summon Vice Admiral Ibas to provide a detailed briefing on the current state of governance and public safety under his administration.

A Call for Transparency and Accountability

In a statement, Prof. Ihonvbere stressed the importance of the interactive session, stating:

“This engagement will enable us to carry out our constitutional responsibilities with the seriousness and objectivity the situation demands. The national interest must come first.”

The session, scheduled for 4:00 p.m. today (Thursday), will be held at Room 414 in the House of Representatives New Building within the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

House Leadership Emphasizes Due Process

Hon. Akin Rotimi, Jr., House Spokesman, also commented on the importance of the meeting, describing it as:

“A vital step toward ensuring transparency and accountability in the administration of Rivers State during this period of emergency rule.”

He added that a formal letter of invitation was issued to the Sole Administrator and has been officially acknowledged, reinforcing the House’s commitment to due process and open governance.

Focus on Integrity and National Interest

The committee has pledged to maintain integrity and adherence to legal standards throughout the investigative process. It reiterated that the well-being of Rivers State citizens and the stability of Nigeria are at the core of its mandate.

As the political and security situation in Rivers State remains fluid, today’s engagement with the Sole Administrator is expected to offer crucial insights into the state’s administration during this emergency period.

Stay tuned for updates as the House continues to monitor developments and take decisive steps to ensure effective governance and public accountability in Rivers State.

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