The decades-long campaign for the establishment of Anioma State has reached a crucial advanced stage, according to Senator Ned Nwoko, who revealed overwhelming legislative backing for the proposal during a significant cultural event in Abuja.
Unprecedented Legislative Support
Speaking at the Izu Anioma Towns Union Abuja event where the inaugural Anioma Cultural Festival was unveiled at the Old Parade Ground in Garki on Saturday, Senator Nwoko disclosed that 97 senators have formally signed a document endorsing Anioma State. The Delta North representative described this level of support as unprecedented in Nigeria's state-creation history.
Nwoko, who serves as Patron of the organization, explained that he introduced the bill two years ago seeking to create Anioma State from nine local government areas in Delta North. The proposed state would incorporate four local governments from Aniocha and Oshimili, two from Ika, and three from Ndokwa regions.
Constitutional Pathway and Regional Balance
The senator emphasized that his bill specifically prescribes the creation of only one new state nationwide. "Only one state will be created in Nigeria, and that one state will be Anioma," he declared confidently.
According to Nwoko, both the Senate and House Committees on Constitutional Amendment have reached consensus that the South-East geopolitical zone must be brought to parity with other regions by adding a sixth state. He asserted that Anioma remains the strongest and most legally sound option being considered by the committees, which include representation from every state in the federation.
High-Level Political Backing and Next Steps
The initiative has received crucial support from top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and President Bola Tinubu. Nwoko revealed that President Tinubu has pledged full support once all constitutional requirements are satisfactorily met.
"We have done our homework. A lot of lobbying, contacts, and consultations are ongoing. Nothing is being left undone," the senator assured supporters.
A significant meeting is scheduled for next weekend in Awka, Anambra State, where governors and National Assembly members from the South-East, traditional rulers, and Anioma representatives will formally adopt Anioma as the region's preferred candidate for state creation.
Historical Context and Future Process
Nwoko described the constitutional amendment committees as "the most important in the country" and noted that their support marks a major breakthrough for Anioma's aspiration that dates back to 1954.
The next phases in the state creation process include:
- Submission of documentation to the Presidency
- Concurrence by state assemblies and governors
- A national referendum where residents will affirm their desire for Anioma State
Upon successful completion of these steps, President Tinubu would publicly sign the state-creation instrument in what Nwoko described as a "momentous" ceremony. If approved, Anioma will become one of two states in the new Delta region, with Asaba as its capital.
Nwoko called on Anioma people to remain united, focused, and prayerful as the process enters its decisive phase. "I did not start this struggle, but I will finish it. Anioma State will be the beginning of a new era," he affirmed.
Earlier at the event, Chief Barr Luke Enelichi, President of Izu Anioma Towns Union, emphasized that the demand for Anioma State transcends political considerations, representing instead a quest for justice, balance, and recognition. He stressed that despite the region's significant contributions to Delta State and Nigeria, its people still lack a state that truly reflects their identity and aspirations.
Barr Enelichi urged President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and all stakeholders to support the long-awaited state, noting it would bring governance closer to the people while ensuring fair representation, equitable resource distribution, and improved development outcomes.
