The push for the creation of Anioma State has taken a major step forward as Senator Ned Nwoko confirmed that key stakeholders from across the South East will meet in Awka next weekend to formally adopt Anioma as the region’s preferred state.
Speaking at the Izu Anioma Towns Union event in Abuja, where the maiden Anioma Cultural Festival was unveiled, Nwoko announced that 97 senators have already signed a document supporting the move. He described the level of support as unprecedented in the history of state creation in Nigeria.
The gathering also recognized distinguished Anioma indigenes, including Nwoko, who represents Delta North and serves as the union’s patron.
Nwoko explained that he introduced the Anioma State Creation Bill two years ago. The proposal seeks to form the new state from the nine local government areas in Delta North, comprising four from Aniocha and Oshimili, two from Ika and three from Ndokwa. He added that some neighbouring communities such as Igbanke have shown interest in joining the proposed state.
According to him, both the Senate and House Committees on Constitutional Amendment agree that the South East deserves a sixth state to ensure fairness and regional balance. He noted that Anioma currently stands out as the most viable and constitutionally sound option.
The senator also revealed that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and President Bola Tinubu have indicated readiness to support the initiative once all constitutional requirements are completed.
“We have done our homework. We are still holding consultations and meeting stakeholders. Nothing is being left undone,” he said.
He listed the next steps in the process, including submission of documentation to the Presidency, approval by state assemblies and governors, and a national referendum that will allow citizens to vote on the proposal.
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