The World Igbo Youth Council (WIYC), a diaspora socio-cultural organization has demanded the creation of two additional states of Aba and Etiti, as a prerequisite for voters in the South East to support President Bola Tinubu re-election in 2027.
The youth group, said it’s imperative to recognize that the Igbo people inhabit 774 local government areas across Nigeria, and have a significant presence in the 19 northern states.
It stated that this widespread distribution, underscores the necessity for equitable representation in the political landscape of the nation.
The group said the clamour for a separate Anioma State is not rooted in the aspirations of the South East, but instead reflects the longstanding neglect of the people of the South South region.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the National Publicity Secretary of WIYC, Chinguzo Onyekonwu, urged President Bola Tinubu to confront the systematic injustices that have been inflicted on the Igbo nation, by acceding to the creation of Aba and Etiti States, which are vital components of the Igbo identity and heritage.
“The historical context of our marginalization, which has persisted since the conclusion of the Biafra War in 1970, cannot and should not be ignored any longer. It is high time for the current administration to take meaningful steps, toward reparation for these grave injustices.
“The creation of Aba and Etiti States would not merely be a political concession; it would represent a sincere acknowledgment of the hardships endured by the Igbo people over decades.
“The narrative suggesting that Anioma State could serve as the sixth state for the South East is steeped in falsehood, and misrepresentation. Such misleading assertions aim to deceive the Igbo populace into acquiescence and complacency.
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“We reject this disingenuous attempt to paper over the very real grievances of our people. On the contrary, if President Tinubu is earnest in his commitment to justice and equity, then he must align his policies with the authentic aspirations of the Igbo youth, which call for the appropriate recognition of our socio-political rights through the creation of Aba and Etiti States.
“The World Igbo Youth Council calls on President Tinubu to seize this opportunity not only to rectify historical wrongs, but also to forge a new path for an inclusive and equitable Nigeria.
“We stand resolute and ready to support any initiative that genuinely seeks to empower the Igbo nation, but this support is contingent upon tangible actions that reflect our need for proper representation and justice.
“The time for change is now, and the Igbo demand for Aba and Etiti States is not a mere request; it is a righteous claim fortified by our history, culture, and unyielding spirit. We look forward to a positive response that will serve as a catalyst for political rekindling among the diverse peoples of Nigeria,” it said.
