Former Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka has disclosed that the Southeast has lost an estimated N17.4 trillion over the past 29 years due to the absence of a sixth state.
Chidoka said the amount would have contributed significantly to federal allocations and local government revenue.
He spoke during his address at the Otu Oka-Iwu (Association of Igbo Lawyers) event over the weekend and was contained in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Ikechukwu Okafor.
The former Minister said the staggering figure, adjusted for inflation and devaluation, highlights the region’s ongoing economic and political marginalisation, with profound implications for representation, federal receipts, and governance.
“The absence of a sixth state in the Southeast is not just a political oversight but a direct financial loss for our region. Over the past 29 years, the Southeast has lost over 17 trillion Naira, which could have fueled economic development, improved infrastructure, and enhanced our political representation in the National Assembly
“This loss is unsustainable, and it is time for us to come together and take the necessary steps to stop these ongoing losses.”
Chidoka called on Southeast leaders to unite and follow the constitutional process for state creation, reminding the region of the process, as stipulated in Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
“A formal request for the creation of a new state, supported by at least a two-thirds majority of the Senate, House of Representatives, State House of Assembly, and local government councils in the affected area.
“Approval through a referendum, where at least two-thirds of the people in the affected area must support the creation of the new state.
“Approval by a simple majority of all states and their respective Houses of Assembly.
“Final approval by a two-thirds majority of both chambers of the National Assembly.
“Now is the time for the Southeast to formally request the creation of the sixth state, following the prescribed constitutional process. This is the only way to stop the representation and federal allocation losses,” Chidoka added.
He urged Southeast leaders to play national politics, putting aside internal divisions, and work together to secure the region’s future.
“We must stop crying about the absence of the sixth state and instead focus on what is required to make it a reality. The Southeast must place the burden on the Nigerian state to officially recognise our need for equitable representation, resources, and political power,” he added.
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