The call for the creation of Anioma State as the 6th state in the South East is being re-emphasized not as a fleeting political move but as a continuation of a deeply rooted historic and cultural identity. This agitation stretches as far back as the Mid-Western region era, where notable figures like Chief Dennis Osadebe, then Premier of the region, championed the unification of Anioma people based on shared ancestry, language, culture, and social structure.
Nwoko Steps Forward with Legislative Action
Now, Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, has taken the agitation further by sponsoring a bill in the National Assembly for the creation of Anioma state from present-day Delta State. His conviction is tied to his ancestry and his legislative responsibility to give a voice to his people, especially those whose Igbo roots and identity have often been diluted in regional configurations.
"I see it as a responsibility that goes beyond politics. I stand on the legacy of my forefathers. As a Prince of Idumuje-Ugboko and descendant of HRH Obi Nwoko I, I believe it's time we handed the baton to the next generation with a gift that will outlive us all – the Anioma State."He believes this bill, when passed by the 10th Senate and approved by the Tinubu administration, will not only fulfill a generational dream but also bring about increased unity, national security, and a more productive use of both human and natural resources across the country.
Weighing Legacy Over Opposition
Although some opposition may arise from political or economic interests, Nwoko argues that legacy and equity should take precedence over personal gratification. In his view, democracy demands that the majority voice be heard—and with a referendum in place, the people will have a chance to formally express their long-standing silent requests.
Economic and Human Capital Advantage
Beyond sentiment, the Anioma region holds massive economic and human resource potential. According to Nwoko, Anioma has produced leading professionals across the banking, oil and gas, academia, diplomacy, media, and politics sectors. Despite contributing immensely to the state’s development, the Anioma people continue to experience marginalization and cultural misrepresentation, a contradiction that stokes the push for their own identity and reunification with their Southeast brethren.
"Our people are among the most productive across strategic industries. Yet, they remain ironically denied their full identity. The desire is not driven by greed but by a yearning to reconnect and heal generations of separation."A Remedy to Identity Crisis and Historical Wounds
The Nigerian Civil War and the ensuing restructuring created confusion and identity crises that continue to affect successive generations. While some public figures distance themselves from their Igbo heritage for political convenience, many citizens have endured being labeled Mid-western Igbos, Bendel Igbos, or Delta Igbos—none of which reflect their true ancestry.
A state of their own would provide not just administrative recognition, but also cultural validation and a pathway for stronger unity.
Healing Through Justice and Inclusion
For Senator Nwoko, Anioma State would be more than geography. It would be a symbol of justice, a federal promise fulfilled, and an avenue for national healing. Events like the Asaba massacre remain scars that must be addressed with sincerity. True unity, he argues, cannot happen without practical steps to correct historic wrongs and offer equitable opportunities.
"Unity and security cannot just be slogans. We must act. When there's fairness, agitation disappears. Creating Anioma state would ease tensions, reinforce our federal character, and unleash untapped potentials from our region."A Reunification Long Overdue
The quest for Anioma State is a call to treat the Southeast as equal stakeholders in the Nigerian federation. With only five states, the Southeast remains shortchanged in national representation and development projects. The Anioma people, ready and willing, see this as a timely chance for reintegration and growth—not just for themselves, but for the country at large.
"They say, treat a child like his mates and he’ll be happy. The Anioma people want to be treated like their mates. The South East needs a 6th state. And we are ready."This renewed push for Anioma State intersects not just with identity, but also Nigeria’s ongoing debates about fair representation, federal character, and national healing. With an ongoing constitutional review and rising calls for restructuring, this bill if given serious attention, may test how committed Nigeria is to inclusivity and historical reconciliation.
