ABUJA — Senator Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North) has reignited calls for the creation of Anioma State, describing it as both a historic correction and a political necessity to address Nigeria’s long-standing structural imbalance.
Speaking at an interactive session with journalists in Abuja on Monday, Nwoko disclosed that he has already sponsored a bill before the Senate Committee on Constitution Review seeking to carve Anioma State from the present Delta State.
The lawmaker argued that the South East remains the only region with five states, unlike others that have six or seven, leaving it short-changed in representation, federal allocation, and political influence.
“The creation of Anioma State is not just a regional demand but a matter of national justice. Anioma, as an Igbo homeland west of the Niger, is the natural candidate to correct this injustice. It will not divide Nigeria; it will strengthen it,” Nwoko said.
He stressed that Anioma, with Asaba as its capital, would stand as a bridge between the East and West, North and South, and fully integrate Delta North into Nigeria’s federation.
Highlighting Anioma’s Igbo heritage, Nwoko said its people — spread across nine local government areas — share cultural, linguistic, and ancestral ties with Igbos across the Niger. From names like Okonkwo and Nwafor to market days and masquerade traditions, he noted, “our actuality is constant: Igbo is Igbo.”
On economic viability, the Senator pointed out Anioma’s fertile agricultural land, rich oil and gas reserves in Ndokwa, Ika, and Oshimili, and key energy installations like the Okpai Power Plant. He also hailed Anioma’s human capital and global contributions in politics, business, academia, media, and sports.
“The creation of Anioma State will unlock our potentials, attract investment, create jobs, preserve our heritage, and secure the future. It is not a privilege to be begged for, but a right long denied and justice long delayed,” he declared.
Nwoko described Anioma as a symbol of reconciliation and healing, insisting that the agitation dates back to 1954. “Anioma people are not to be erased or silenced. They deserve recognition, celebration, and a state of their own. Anioma State is the future — and the time is now,” he said.
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