Anioma State Demand Rooted in Equity, Cultural Identity — Senator Ned Nwoko
Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North) has reaffirmed that the campaign for the creation of Anioma State is not driven by partisan politics, but by a longstanding aspiration for equity, justice, and cultural recognition.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday, the lawmaker, who chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, described the quest as a generational dream tied to the identity and survival of the Anioma people.
“This is not about APC or PDP. Anioma has always maintained its unique identity across administrative boundaries. The call for statehood is rooted in our history, culture, and viability,” Nwoko said.
He dismissed claims that the agitation is politically motivated, stressing that attempts to politicize it reveal a disconnect from the true sentiments of the Anioma people.
“Some detractors are trying to reduce a deeply cultural movement to mere politics. That’s a shallow perspective,” he added.
Nwoko noted that the struggle dates back over five decades, citing historical figures such as Chief Dennis Osadebay, the first Premier of the defunct Midwest Region, as a pioneer. Osadebay, he said, coined “Anioma” to unify the Aniocha, Ndokwa, Ika, and Oshimili peoples.
Other advocates in the past include Senator Nosike Ikpo, Prof. Chike Edozien (late Asagba of Asaba), and Sir Benjamin Elue, a former Deputy Governor of Delta State who presented a formal proposal at the 2014 National Conference.
“These patriots did not campaign for Anioma state based on political interests. It was always about self-determination, equity, and unity,” Nwoko emphasized.
He clarified that he has no personal political ambition tied to the potential state, stating, “I have no interest in being the first governor of Anioma. This is bigger than any individual.”
The senator revealed that the movement enjoys widespread support, including the backing of 85 senators and the Presidency. Traditional rulers such as the new Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, and the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi I, also support the initiative.
He described the recent public hearings in Uyo and Enugu as a “resounding success,” noting that no opposing voices were raised, a sign of growing consensus.
“Anioma state is not about secession; it’s about recognition. It’s a vision whose time has come. It’s a train that will not be derailed by fear, ignorance, or political gamesmanship,” Nwoko said.
He urged all stakeholders to rise above party affiliations and embrace the shared dream, stressing the need for unity in pursuing what he called a legitimate demand rooted in cultural values and national contribution.
“This is not the time for division. It is a time for progress, and Anioma must not be left behind,” he concluded.
