ANIOMA STATE: Senator Nwoko Writes to Constituents, Appeals for Unity and Perseverance in Anioma State Creation

ABUJA/Nigeria: In a heartfelt address to the people of Anioma, Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North at the National Assembly, has expressed immense joy and pride in the ongoing efforts to create Anioma State. He emphasized the historical significance and urgent necessity of this movement. Urging for unity and perseverance.

In a public letter made available to NDOKWA REPORTERS on Monday, July 29, 2024, titled “LET US RISE TOGETHER FOR ANIOMA STATE”.

Senator Nwoko detailed his recent bill seeking the creation of Anioma State. The proposed amendment to Section 3(1) of the Principal Act involves changing the number of states from thirty-six to thirty-seven, inserting “ANIOMA” immediately after “ANAMBRA” and before “BAUCHI.” The bill proposes that Anioma State, with its capital in Asaba, will include the local government areas of Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North-East, Ika South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ukwuani.

“I have watched with keen interest the widespread reactions that have greeted the bill,” said Senator Nwoko. “Based on the various viewpoints and my interactions, the majority of the people earnestly desire the creation of Anioma State as a compelling necessity.”

He noted the overwhelming support from pro-Anioma campaigners, including traditional rulers, youths, women, and various pressure groups, highlighting the unprecedented enthusiasm and participation in the movement. “Never before in the annals of the Anioma struggle has the movement been so fervent and tumultuous in participation and appeal,” he remarked.

Senator Nwoko emphasized that his desire for the creation of Anioma State is driven by history, equity, and purpose. “The agitation for Anioma predated my resolve as it started over 50 years ago,” he explained, referencing the efforts pioneered by the legendary Sir Dennis Osadebay, the first premier of the Midwest region, and other notable Anioma figures like the late Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Chike Edozien, and Senator Nosike Ikpo.

Addressing debates over the geographical zone Anioma should belong to, Senator Nwoko clarified that the movement transcends such concerns.

“Our demand for Anioma is not about the location, whether in the South-South or South-East zone. The movement has gone beyond that as we advance irreversibly in oneness,” he stated. “Geographical zone is a nebulous concept, unrecognized in the Nigerian constitution. It has never encumbered the existence or fortune of any state and will not in any way affect Anioma State.”

Responding to various interpretations of his motives, he asserted, “Few interpretations have surfaced as reasons for my seeking Anioma. While some view the demand as a veiled opportunity to become governor of Anioma, others see it as a political gimmick. None is a correct or plausible imagination. I want the creation of an Anioma State and nothing else.”

Senator Nwoko reiterated his commitment to the Anioma cause, driven by a sense of justice, progress, and unity. “I seek Anioma for social justice, peace, progress, brotherhood, love, and unity. I crave Anioma for the manifestation of its distinct identity and latent potentials—a new nation of goodness, treasure trove of human endowment, land of harmony, oil and gas abundance, agrarian and aquatic splendor.”

He expressed profound gratitude for the support he has received since his inauguration and pledged to continue advocating for the material well-being of all Delta North residents and the total development of Anioma land. “Since I made a solemn pledge to give quality representation as your senator, my sacred creed has been guided by a vision to improve the material well-being of the entire residents of Delta North, irrespective of class, tribal, political, or sectarian cleavages.”

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Senator Nwoko called for steadfastness and unity in the face of potential distractions. “We must not allow the antics of a few reactionary forces with sinister selfish agendas. Let us, as a people, remain steadfast as we move en masse in the march towards the creation of Anioma.”

In closing, Senator Nwoko welcomed all Anioma people and friends at home and in the diaspora to join the project. “On my honour, let me reassure you that this Anioma remarkable voyage of progress will yield grand prospects for the present and future generations.”