IPOB Dismisses New State Proposal
On Thursday, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) dismissed a bill that seeks to create a new state for the South-East. IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, asserted that what the Igbo people need is a referendum to determine their future in Nigeria, not an additional state.
Bill Passes First Reading
The bill proposing the creation of a new state, Orlu State, passed its first reading in the House of Representatives. Notably, this bill is sponsored by Ikenga Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency in Imo State. Furthermore, the bill suggests carving out Orlu State from parts of Imo, Abia, and Anambra states, with Orlu designated as the capital.
IPOB’s Stance on State Creation
Reacting to the bill, Emma Powerful stated, “We don’t want more states in Igboland. Creating more states means creating more confusion and hatred among the Ndigbo. The government does not manage the existing states well, and adding another will only increase governance costs and mismanagement.
Economic Concerns
Powerful pointed out that most of the current states in Nigeria are not viable. He argued that adding another state would not address the underlying issues but rather contribute to the existing problems. He emphasised that the Igbo people seek total freedom and a referendum to decide their status in Nigeria.
Call for Referendum
The IPOB spokesperson reiterated that the primary demand of the Igbo people is a referendum. “The creation of more states is not our problem. We want a total referendum to determine whether the Ndigbo would like to remain in Nigeria or not. We insist on total freedom,” he said.
Government Urged to Act
IPOB’s rejection of the state creation proposal underscores the group’s long-standing demand for a referendum. Consequently, the call for a referendum reflects a broader desire for self-determination and autonomy within the South-East region.
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