Senator Ned Nwoko says the push for Anioma State creation transcends politics, describing it as a matter of destiny, equity and justice for the people.
Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, stated this during an interview in Abuja.
According to him, the demand for Anioma State is a generational aspiration rooted in cultural survival and self-determination.
“It has nothing to do with APC or PDP politics. Anioma has always had a strong identity despite administrative boundaries,” he said.
He explained that Anioma meets all criteria for state creation, including population size, economic viability, cultural affinity and historical relevance.
“It is disappointing that some are politicising the demand, which clearly disconnects them from the widespread excitement among Anioma people who see emancipation in sight,” he said.
Nwoko stressed that although he did not begin the agitation, he is determined to bring it to fruition.
“The struggle for Anioma State dates back over 50 years. Chief Dennis Osadebay, the first Premier of the Midwest State, coined the term ‘Anioma’ to unite the Aniocha, Ndokwa, Ika and Oshimili people,” he said.
He added that ‘Anioma’ also means ‘good land’ or ‘land of good’ and that the original drive was never political, but rather based on cultural identity and destiny.
Figures such as George Orewa, Senator Nosike Ikpo, the late Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Chike Edozien, and former Delta Deputy Governor Sir Benjamin Elue were also noted for their contributions to the cause.
Elue, he recalled, presented a paper on Anioma State creation at the 2014 National Conference convened by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
“None of them sought to create Anioma State for political gain,” he said, clarifying that he himself harbours no ambition to become its first governor.
Nwoko questioned the motives of those opposing the creation, asking whose interests they serve.
He noted that the current drive has support from traditional rulers, including the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi I, politicians across party lines, and community members from diverse backgrounds.
“The campaign is backed by around 85 senators and has significant support from the Presidency,” he said.
He described the recent public hearings in Uyo and Enugu on 4 and 5 July as a “resounding success,” pointing out that no opposing voices were recorded.
“This is not a call for separation, but for recognition. No reasonable person should oppose it,” he said.
He warned that the movement is unstoppable and urged all to rise above politics for the sake of a collective vision grounded in cultural identity, unity and national contribution.
“This is a dream whose time has come,” he said. “It is bigger than party politics or individual interests. This is a call for unity, because a house divided against itself cannot stand.”
(NAN)