Newscenter Media News Immanuel Kant in his 1785 Groundwork of the metaphysics of morals as a way of evaluating motivations for action, urged us to “Act according to the maxim that you would wish all other rational people to follow, as if it were a universal law.”
In a much more clearer template, Immanuel Kant charged that: ” It is our duty to act in such a manner that we would want everyone else to act in a similar manner in similar circumstances towards all other people.”
Our understanding of this Kantian perspective is that social justice should become the beacon, the driving force and the underpinning objective that should guide all our actions or put distinctively, we are urged to build our actions upon a formidable ethical highground.
Immanuel Kant(22nd April 1724-12th February 1804) was a German Philosopher and one of the reputable central Enlightenment thinkers.
His (Immanuel Kant’s) categorical imperative as explained briefly above, introduces us today to our submission in which we are arguing persuasively and powerfully, that it is a categorical imperative for the tenth session of the National Assembly to pass the law creating Anioma State as one of the states of the federation of modern Nigeria and as a component part of the larger South Eastern zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Specifically, we in the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) presents this comprehensive argument in favor of creating Anioma State. The creation of Anioma State is a matter of justice, equity, and socio-economic development for Nigeria. This presentation outlines the historical, cultural, economic, administrative, and regional rationales that make a compelling case for the establishment of Anioma State.
*Historical Context and Cultural Identity*
Anioma, an acronym derived from the four original local governments in the Northern part of Delta State -Aniocha, Ndokwa, Ika, Oshimili and two common denominators of ‘M’ and ‘A’ to give a meaning to the acronym, represents a distinct ethnic and cultural identity within Delta State. The Anioma people share a common heritage, language, and cultural practices that distinguish them from other ethnic groups in Delta State. Historically, the Anioma region has been a cohesive entity with a rich tradition of self-governance, communal harmony, and cultural pride.
The demand for Anioma State is not a recent phenomenon; it dates back to Nigeria’s early post-independence years. The Willinks Commission of 1958 acknowledged the unique identity of the Anioma people and recommended measures to address their administrative needs. However, despite numerous political reconfigurations and the creation of new states, Anioma’s aspirations for statehood have remained unfulfilled.
The rich cultural heritage of Anioma is evident in its festivals, dances, and traditional ceremonies. Festivals like the Igbu Festival in Ndokwa, the Otuogwu Festival in Aniocha, and the Ogboni Festival in Oshimili celebrate the region’s history, reinforce communal bonds, and promote cultural tourism. By creating Anioma State, Nigeria would be preserving and promoting this unique cultural heritage, contributing to the diversity that makes the nation vibrant.
*Administrative Efficiency and Governance*
The creation of Anioma State would enhance administrative efficiency and governance within the region. Delta State, as it currently exists, is a large and diverse entity with significant administrative challenges. The creation of Anioma State would bring the government closer to the people, ensuring more responsive and accountable governance.
An Anioma State would facilitate the equitable distribution of resources, enable tailored development programs, and foster greater citizen participation in governance. It would also reduce the administrative burden on Delta State, allowing for more focused and effective governance across both regions.
The proximity of government to the people is a fundamental principle of federalism and democracy. By creating the Anioma State, governance would become more localized, enabling officials to address the unique needs and aspirations of the Anioma people. This proximity would also foster better communication between the government and its citizens, promoting transparency, accountability, and trust in public institutions.
*Economic Viability and Development Potential*
Anioma has substantial economic potential that can be harnessed for the benefit of its people and Nigeria as a whole. The region is rich in natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, fertile agricultural land, and a strategic location along the Niger River. Anioma’s economic activities include agriculture, fishing, commerce, and industries, which contribute significantly to Delta State’s GDP.
The creation of Anioma State as part of the South East region would unlock further economic development opportunities by providing focused attention on the region’s unique assets. With an independent administrative structure, Anioma can attract investment, develop infrastructure, and implement policies tailored to its economic strengths. This would not only improve the standard of living for Anioma’s residents but also contribute to Nigeria’s overall economic growth.
Agriculture remains the backbone of Anioma’s economy. The fertile lands support the cultivation of crops such as cassava, yam, maize, and vegetables. Anioma is also known for its robust fishing industry, thanks to its proximity to the Niger River and its tributaries. By creating Anioma State, the government can implement targeted agricultural policies, provide better access to markets, and invest in modern farming techniques, thus boosting food security and creating employment opportunities.
The region’s oil and gas reserves present another significant economic opportunity. Anioma has untapped hydrocarbon deposits that, if properly managed, could generate substantial revenue for the state. An independent Anioma State would have the autonomy to negotiate better terms for resource extraction, ensuring that the benefits are equitably shared among its residents. Additionally, the state could invest in refining and petrochemical industries, further diversifying its economy and reducing dependence on crude oil exports.
*Equity and Social Justice*
The principle of equity and social justice demands the creation of Anioma State. The Anioma people have long felt marginalized within Delta State, with limited access to political power and economic opportunities. The creation of Anioma State would address these historical injustices and provide a platform for the Anioma people to achieve their full potential.
The Nigerian Constitution enshrines the right to self-determination and equitable development for all ethnic groups. Creating Anioma State would align with these constitutional principles, ensuring that the Anioma people’s rights and aspirations are recognized and respected.
Marginalization has had significant socio-economic implications for the Anioma people. Despite their contributions to the state’s economy, Anioma communities often lack basic infrastructure such as roads, healthcare facilities, and schools. The creation of Anioma State would enable targeted investments in these critical areas, improving the quality of life for residents and fostering social cohesion.
Political representation is another area where Anioma has been disadvantaged. Within Delta State, political power is often concentrated in regions with larger populations or greater economic influence. By creating Anioma State, the Anioma people would have greater representation in national politics, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed at the highest levels of government.
*Political Stability and National Unity*
The creation of Anioma State would contribute to political stability and national unity. By addressing the legitimate aspirations of the Anioma people, and the South East, the Nigerian government would be promoting inclusiveness and reducing regional tensions. This would enhance the sense of belonging and loyalty to the Nigerian state among Anioma’s residents.
Furthermore, the creation of Anioma State would serve as a model for addressing other legitimate statehood demands across the country. It would demonstrate the government’s commitment to justice, equity, and the peaceful resolution of regional grievances, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
Political stability is crucial for sustainable development and economic growth. By addressing the long-standing demands of the Anioma State, the government would be preventing potential conflicts and fostering a sense of justice among the Anioma people. This would create a more stable and predictable political environment, encouraging investment and promoting long-term development.
The creation of Anioma State would also have symbolic significance for national unity. It would demonstrate that Nigeria values the aspirations of all its ethnic groups and is committed to their equitable development. This inclusive approach would strengthen the bonds of unity among Nigeria’s diverse communities, reinforcing the idea that the country is greater than the sum of its parts.
*Completing the South East Region*
One of the most compelling reasons for the creation of Anioma State is to complete the South East region, which currently has only five states, unlike other regions that have six or seven states. This imbalance puts the South East at a disadvantage in terms of political representation, resource allocation, and development opportunities.
Creating Anioma State would bring the South East region in line with other regions, ensuring equal representation and fostering balanced development across the country. This move would correct a historical anomaly and promote fairness and equity in Nigeria’s federal structure.
The creation of Anioma State would also strengthen the South East region’s political and economic influence, enabling it to contribute more effectively to national development. It would empower the region to advocate for its interests and collaborate more effectively with other regions, fostering national unity and cohesion.
*Precedents and Comparative Analysis*
Nigeria has a history of creating new states to address administrative inefficiencies, promote development, and ensure equitable representation. States like Ebonyi, Ekiti, and Gombe were created to address specific regional needs and have since made significant progress in governance and development.
Comparative analysis of these states shows that the creation of Anioma State is not only feasible but also desirable. The Anioma region possesses the necessary population, landmass, and economic viability to function as an independent state. Moreover, the experiences of newly created states demonstrate that such administrative reconfigurations can lead to improved governance and socio-economic outcomes.
Ebonyi State, for example, was created from the former Abakaliki division of Enugu State and Afikpo division of Abia State in 1996. Since its creation, Ebonyi has made significant strides in infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and agriculture. The state’s focused attention on its unique challenges and opportunities has resulted in tangible improvements in the quality of life for its residents.
Similarly, Ekiti State, created in 1996 from the western part of Ondo State, has leveraged its agricultural potential and educational heritage to drive development. The state has invested heavily in agriculture, education, and infrastructure, leading to economic growth and improved living standards.
Gombe State, also created in 1996 from Bauchi State, has seen significant progress in healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. The state’s focused attention on its unique challenges and opportunities has resulted in tangible improvements in the quality of life for its residents.
These examples illustrate that the creation of new states can lead to better governance, more equitable development, and improved socio-economic outcomes. Anioma State has the potential to replicate these successes, leveraging its unique strengths to drive development and improve the quality of life for its residents.
*Conclusion*
In conclusion, the creation of Anioma State is a matter of justice, equity, and national development. It aligns with Nigeria’s constitutional principles, addresses historical marginalization, and unlocks the economic potential of the Anioma region. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) strongly urges the Senate Committee on Constitution Review to consider and support the creation of Anioma State.
By creating Anioma State, Nigeria would be taking a significant step towards inclusive governance, equitable development, and national unity. We believe that the time is ripe for this bold and transformative decision, which will benefit not only the Anioma people but also the entire nation.
Thank you for your attention and consideration.
Yours sincerely,
*Comrade Emmanuel Onwubio*
National Coordinator
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA). August 6th 2024.