Igbo Communities in Edo Demand Inclusion in Anioma State, Accuse Edo Government of Marginalization

Igbo Communities in Edo Demand Inclusion in Anioma State, Accuse Edo Government of Marginalization

Seventeen Igbo communities in Edo State have formally expressed their desire to leave the state and join their kinsmen in the South-East. The communities are calling on the federal government to include them in the proposed Anioma State, citing ethnic alignment and claims of marginalization in Edo.

In a statement, representatives of the communities emphasized, “We are not Benin or Edo people; we are Igbo, and we have long suffered exclusion and neglect in Edo State.”

However, the Edo State government has reportedly rejected their request, expressing concerns about the economic consequences of such a move. According to sources close to the government, officials argued, “If we allow these communities to leave, Edo State will lose access to vital oil resources, jeopardizing the state’s economic survival.”

The request has stirred conversations about ethnic identity and resource control, with observers noting the complexities involved in redrawing state boundaries. While the communities seek unity with their Igbo counterparts, the Edo government remains focused on maintaining the state’s territorial integrity and resource base.

Further developments are expected as the matter gains attention at both the regional and national levels.