Group makes case for Aba State as economic powerhouse

From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

The Aba State Movement has said that the proposed Aba State is the most economically viable among all state creation proposals currently under consideration.

In a statement issued in Abuja by its Chairman and Secretary, His Royal Highness, Eze Love Wogu and Chief Godfrey Akara respectively, the group said “throughout Nigeria’s complex history of state creation, the quest for Aba State stands out as a persistent and enduring endeavour.

“This is not a recent, politically motivated demand, but a century-long pursuit rooted in a distinct identity.”

The group recalled that the journey began in 1915 when the British colonial government administratively united the Asa, Ndoki, and Ngwa people into the Aba Division.

“The formal political pursuit of autonomy began just over a decade later, in 1927. This long struggle reached a critical milestone in 1983 when the National Assembly, under a democratic government, approved a referendum for the creation of Aba State.

“However, that referendum was never realized due to the military coup of December 31, 1983. Ironically, every other state recommended for creation alongside Aba in 1983—Adamawa, Jigawa, Katsina, Kogi, Taraba, and Enugu—has since been established, leaving Aba as the only unfulfilled recommendation.

“This isn’t simply a demand; it’s a promise that has been repeatedly made and validated but never kept,” the group said.

It noted several submissions to every state creation committee and national conference since 1988, demonstrating a resilience that had outlasted numerous governments and generations.

“Beyond historical claims, a compelling economic case exists for Aba State. Advocates argue that the proposed state would not only be sustainable from its inception but would also quickly become a significant financial powerhouse.

“The region is already the commercial and industrial heart of the South East. Aba metropolis, home to the renowned Ariaria International Market, is a major hub for leather goods, footwear, and engineering fabrications, serving markets across West and Central Africa.

“This economic strength is further bolstered by vast resources, including approximately 124 operational oil wells and some of Nigeria’s highest-quality gas reserves in Ukwa West,” the group added.