The term “South/South,” used to describe the delta region of Nigeria, is considered problematic for several reasons. This designation refers to a geographic and political region that includes states in the Niger Delta such as Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. The term is controversial due to its redundancy, ambiguity, and the political and social implications it carries.
The label “South/South” is seen as redundant and fails to provide clear geographical guidance relative to Nigeria’s overall geography. Unlike more precise regional terms like “Southwest” or “Southeast,” “South/South” does not clearly delineate its location, leading to confusion and a lack of geographical specificity.
The term carries significant political overtones, often used to differentiate the region due to its vast oil resources. This differentiation can foster a sense of separateness and has implications for how the region is governed and how resources are allocated. Moreover, the designation can either highlight the economic importance of the region or obscure the serious environmental and development challenges it faces due to its key role in Nigeria’s oil industry.
A crucial aspect of the creation of the “South/South” region was the division of the Igbo people, traditionally located in the Southeast. Following the Nigerian Civil War, the country was restructured to manage ethnic tensions, leading to the division of Igbo communities. This fragmentation aimed to dilute their political influence by spreading them across several states and regions, preventing any single ethnic group from dominating.
This division was not only geographical but also driven by the desire to control the oil wealth more effectively. It ensured that the economic benefits of oil were not concentrated within the Igbo-majority areas, thereby redistributing both political power and economic resources.
The division has had profound cultural and social impacts on the Igbo communities, affecting their cohesion and representation in national politics. Those in the South/South often find themselves culturally and politically distinct from those in the Southeast, which influences their identity and political leverage.
The implications of this division are still felt today, influencing ongoing debates about resource control, ethnic autonomy, and federal restructuring in Nigeria. The term “South/South” itself is a reminder of these divisions and their lasting impact on regional dynamics and ethnic relations.
Ultimately, while commonly used, the term “South/South” in the context of Nigeria’s delta region is a complex and contentious designation. It reflects a history of political manipulation and ethnic division that continues to shape the country’s political landscape and regional interactions.
Duruebube Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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