BY NEWS EDITOR
Tensions are rising between Ebonyi and Anambra states following the controversial renaming of Abakaliki Street in Anambra, prompting Ebonyi indigenes at home and abroad to demand the removal of Anambra-linked street names in Abakaliki.
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has responded to the uproar, revealing that Anambra Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has promised to reverse the change and restore the Abakaliki Street name. “The issue has been handled. Governor Soludo assured immediate action,” Nwifuru stated.
But anger simmers, especially among members of the Ebonyi diaspora. Leading the charge is UK-based businessman Azubike Daniel, also known as Zubitech Global.
Through the Ebonyi Indigenous Group in Diaspora (EIGD), Zubitech has petitioned the Ebonyi government to rename over a dozen streets in the state capital, Abakaliki, currently bearing names of Anambra towns.
Streets listed for renaming include:
Awka Street, Onitsha Street, Abagana Street, Oraifite Street, Umuoji Street, Nnobi Street, and others.
“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander,” Zubitech said, accusing Anambra people of long-standing bias against Ebonyians. He referenced the killing of 13 Ebonyi indigenes in Anambra less than two months ago, calling it a reflection of deep-seated animosity.
Anambra officials defended their initial renaming decision, saying the area has transformed into a leisure district with clubs and hotels, making “Club Street” a more fitting name.
However, the explanation has done little to calm growing resentment in Ebonyi. The street name saga has now taken on a symbolic weight, with calls for a bold assertion of Ebonyi identity gaining momentum.
Observers warn that if not carefully managed, the dispute could inflame ethnic tensions and disrupt inter-state relations in the Southeast.
