Igbo group kicks against proposed Orlu State

The statement read, “The above organisation being the apex socio-cultural body speaking for the good people of Ohaji District in conjunction with other major stakeholders wholly and entirely support and commend the bill for the creation of Orlu State.

“For so long the people of the South-East have not left anyone in doubt that an additional state needed to be carved out for the geopolitical zone, this move therefore will not only correct the imbalance but will also go a long way to assuage, placate and give them a sense of belonging.

“Another point or reason for our rejection of the proposed Orlu State has to do with distance. The capital of Imo State which is Owerri is a stone’s throw from any part of Ohaji town or village and can’t be more than 35 minutes drive, approximately 26 kilometres, coming from the extreme part of Ohaji.

“Whereas, the capital of the proposed Orlu State town is 69 kilometres which are roughly one hour and 24 minutes from Ohaji. Some of our communities have common boundaries with Owerri. For example, Avu, Okuku, Oforola, and Obinze all in Owerri share boundaries with Obosima, Ohoba, Umuokanne, and Mgbirichi all in Ohaji. Let the proponents of the bill for new state creation tell the world where we have any boundary with Orlu people talk more of other things.”