Anioma state creation support is not a political game but a call for equity, justice and identity, says Senator Ned Nwoko at public hearing
Senator Ned Nwoko has declared that Anioma state creation support is a non-political campaign rooted in justice, equity and cultural identity.
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The lawmaker representing Delta North spoke during an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, insisting that the drive for the proposed state is not a partisan affair but a long-standing aspiration of the Anioma people.
Nwoko, who chairs the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, emphasised that the demand for Anioma State had existed for over five decades and was never inspired by party interests.
He insisted that the movement transcends the divisions of the APC or PDP.
“Anioma state creation is not about politics. It is a generational dream tied to cultural survival and self-determination,” he said.
He explained that Anioma meets every constitutional requirement for state creation, including population size, cultural and linguistic cohesion, and economic viability.
The lawmaker expressed disappointment over attempts by some people to politicise what he described as a historic and legitimate call.
“This myopic attitude clearly shows a disconnect from the people. The truth is, the Anioma people are visibly excited that their emancipation is in sight,” Nwoko stated.
The senator pointed out that he is not the originator of the cause but committed to ensuring its fulfilment.
Citing notable pioneers like the late Chief Dennis Osadebay—who coined the name “Anioma” to represent Aniocha, Ndokwa, Ika and Oshimili—Nwoko reiterated that the goal has always been cultural recognition, not political ambition.
He added, “Chief Osadebay did not start the state creation as a political movement. It was purely based on destiny, identity, and historical context.”
Other past and present proponents include George Orewa, Senator Nosike Ikpo, the late Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof Chike Edozien, and Sir Benjamin Elue, who defended the creation of Anioma at the 2014 National Conference.
Nwoko also dismissed speculations that he seeks to become the first governor of the proposed state.
“I have no such ambition. So what is the fear of those opposing it? Whose interests are they really representing?” he queried.
He confirmed that the creation bid enjoys the support of influential traditional rulers including the Asagba of Asaba, Prof Epiphany Azinge, and the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi I.
He also noted that over 85 senators and senior officials in the presidency back the initiative.
The senator revealed that two recent public hearings held in Uyo and Enugu on July 4th and 5th were resounding victories for the Anioma cause.
“There was not one voice of dissent at the public hearings. This proves the popularity and feasibility of the proposal,” he said.
He warned critics not to misconstrue the creation effort as a secessionist plan but as a demand for recognition within the Nigerian federation.
According to him, those working against the bid lack the courage to voice their dissent openly.
“Let it be clear: this is not a call for separation, but for recognition. It is a dream whose time has come,” he added.
Nwoko concluded that Anioma state creation support represents a collective aspiration built on cultural pride and meaningful national contribution.
He called for unity across political lines, urging Nigerians to back what he described as an unstoppable train of progress.
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“It is not about politics of attrition or personal gain. It is about identity, justice, and dignity. No one should stand in the way of that,” he said.
