Gov. Alex Otti Renews Call for Creation of Additional State in South East

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has again called for the creation of a sixth state in Nigeria’s South East zone, describing the region’s current status as a structural imbalance that must be corrected.

Speaking on Saturday after a private meeting with Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State, Otti stressed that the South East is the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria with fewer than six states.

“Virtually every geopolitical zone has six states, and I believe the North West has seven. The South East has five states. So, I am in alignment with the creation of one additional state in the South East,” he said.

In addition to advocating for state creation, Governor Otti reiterated his support for the establishment of state police, a demand echoed by several other states seeking localized responses to security challenges.

During the meeting with Governor Mba, Otti emphasized the need for deeper interstate collaboration in tackling insecurity, particularly across state borders.

“We will continue to work together to ensure that criminals chased out of Enugu do not find safe haven in Abia,” he noted.

Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State described the engagement as part of ongoing discussions aimed at improving the well-being of the people across both states.

“We met to discuss matters of mutual interest mainly how to enhance the quality of life for our people,” Mba said.

The two governors reaffirmed their commitment to regional development, security coordination, and a unified voice on structural reforms, especially those affecting the South East.