By the Editorial Board | NNH News Corp
The National Assembly’s decision to approve an additional state for the South-East marks a long-awaited move toward fairness. Yet the loudest voice in the room—the ANIM State Creation Movement—is already stirring internal tension.
“ANIM” simply merges Anambra (AN) and Imo (IM), the likely donor states. But not everyone in the zone feels represented by that formula. Critics say the name and process risk excluding other South-East states that have their own long-standing claims.
The South-East’s quest for equity has been slowed for decades by rivalry. Movements for Anioma, Etiti, Adada and Orlu states all failed because stakeholders could not agree on boundaries, capitals or leadership. Without unity, ANIM may face the same fate.
NNH News Corp cautions that the movement must prioritise inclusion and viability over political ambition. Consult every governor, traditional ruler, youth bloc and community affected. Clarify the new state’s territory, capital and resource base before lobbying further.
The South-East deserves justice—but justice without unity will mean little.
Editorial Verdict:
> The sixth state should reflect collective will, not sectional advantage.
Equity achieved through division is no victory.
