As the public hearing for the proposed Etiti State creation bill holds tomorrow, July 19, in Owerri, the sponsor of the bill, Hon. Amobi Ogah, has emphasized the immense benefits of the constitutional amendment to the people of the South East and Nigeria at large.
The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for the Creation of Etiti State Out of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo States; and for Other Matters Connected Therewith,” seeks to carve out a new state—Etiti—from parts of the five existing South East states.
According to Hon. Ogah, who represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, the creation of Etiti State is long overdue and will bring balanced representation to the South East geo-political zone. He noted that the South East currently has only five states, while other regions like the North-West and South-West have seven and six states respectively. This, he argued, has resulted in unequal political representation, reduced federal appointments, and lower allocation of resources to the region.
“This bill is a response to the cry for justice, equity, and inclusion for the South East. Etiti State will bring governance closer to the grassroots, reduce the burden on the existing states, and enhance infrastructure development in the affected communities,” Hon. Ogah stated.
He further highlighted that the new state will create more opportunities for youth employment, attract federal presence, and serve as a symbol of renewed unity and growth for the Igbo-speaking people. The creation of Etiti State, according to him, will also address issues of marginalization, help decongest densely populated areas, and promote regional integration through shared governance and identity.
Hon. Ogah commended the leadership of the National Assembly for approving the public hearing and called on stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society groups, and the general public to attend and make their voices heard during the session in Owerri.
“This is not just a political move; it is a people’s project. I urge our people to seize this opportunity to shape the future of our region for the better,” he added.
The public hearing is expected to draw massive participation from the five states involved, as well as legal experts, academics, and development advocates across Nigeria.
If passed and assented to, Etiti State will become Nigeria’s 37th state, redefining the political landscape and opening a new chapter in the history of the South East.
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