The bill proposing the creation of a new state in the South East region of the country has scaled its second reading at the House of Representatives.

The bill, jointly sponsored by lawmakers from the region, including Amobi Ogah from Abia, Miriam Onuoha from Imo, Kama Nkemkama from Ebonyi, Chinwe Nnabuife from Anambra, and Anayo Onwuegbu from Enugu, received affirmative support during the plenary session on Thursday.

The proposed state, to be named Etiti, aims to carve out territories from the existing states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo.

The state will have 11 LGAs: Aninri, Awgu, Isuikwuato, Ivo, Oji-River, Ohaozara, Okigwe, Onuimo, Orumba North, Orumba South, and Umu-Nneochi.

In his legislative brief, Ogah said the bill seeks to address a “longstanding” issue of regional parity and administrative efficiency within the south-east.

Ogah said, “The establishment of Etiti state is not just a matter of administrative convenience but a step towards ensuring balanced regional development and effective governance.

“It responds to the aspirations of the people of a very important region to this country and aligns with the principles of equity and inclusivity enshrined in our democratic ideals.

“Suffice it to say that it is a long overdue step in the right direction to foster equitable representation, enhance governance efficiency, and promote socio-economic development within the region.”

The bill was voted for when it was put to a voice vote by Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house.

The bill was read for the first time on July 2.

On Thursday, the senate also introduced a bill seeking to create Tiga, a new state, from Kano.