The agitation for the creation of Adada State from the old Nsukka Division has been a longstanding one, dating back to 1983. The people of this region, comprising seven local government areas, have been driven by the desire for even development and the need to bring government closer to the people. Despite numerous attempts, the creation of Adada State has been elusive, with successive governments neglecting the region’s development needs.

Historical Context

The old Nsukka Division, now part of Enugu State, has been marginalized in terms of infrastructure, social amenities, and government appointments. The region’s underdevelopment is attributed to its late contact with Western education and neglect by successive governments. The creation of Adada State is seen as a means to address these inequalities and promote rapid development in the region.

The Movement for the Creation of Adada State was established, with Traditional Rulers, Political Leaders, and Leaders of Thought, Women and Youth Groups from the old Nsukka Division united in their quest for self-determination. The request for state creation was presented to the National Assembly in 1983 but was truncated by the military intervention of December 1983.

Renewed Call for Creation

In 2005, the Obasanjo-led administration’s Political Reform Conference unanimously agreed on the need for an additional state in the South-East to address the imbalance in Nigeria’s zonal structure. The National Assembly Joint Committee on Review of the Constitution adopted this decision.

The ADADA STATE Movement presented its case to the Senate President’s committee, led by Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, which voted Adada State as the foremost choice in the South-East. The Enugu State House of Assembly passed a resolution supporting the creation of Adada State in 2008.

Current Status

While in office, the immediate past Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, supported and still supported the demand for Adada State, and the State Committee for the Actualization of Adada State continues to push for its creation. The people of old Nsukka Division remain united in their quest for self-determination and even development, and their demand for Adada State remains a priority.

The creation of Adada State is not only a matter of justice and equity but also a means to unlock the economic potential of the region. The people of Adada State are still resolute in their quest for self-determination, and their demand deserves urgent attention from the 10th National Assembly and the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.