In a powerful and unyielding declaration, Senator Ned Nwoko has unequivocally reaffirmed his commitment to the creation of Anioma State, boldly stating that while he "did not initiate the current political fight, he is, however, determined to see it through to victory." With renewed confidence and the overwhelming backing of prominent stakeholders, Senator Nwoko emphasised that the support from traditional rulers, political leaders, women, youths, and the general populace across Delta North has been nothing short of "momentous, colossal, and irreversible."
Underscoring his ironclad resolve, Senator Nwoko declared: "I did not start the fight, but I will finish it," a statement that sharply dismisses what he termed "tiny talks of dissent" from a minority within the region. He added, with palpable conviction: "With the amazing support of all our leaders and the people of Anioma marching forward in prime solidarity, I am emboldened, much more than ever, in the renewed quest for Anioma state."
Nwoko stressed the overwhelming consensus: "This explains why there is no whiff of worry over the tiny talks of dissent by few persons within Delta North. The fiery passion of the people for Anioma is momentous and irreversible." He highlighted the sheer scale of support: "The loud voices of kings, leaders, men, women, youths and the general populace, encompassing over a million stakeholders, all demanding Anioma state is too epic to juxtapose with whispers of less than a dozen numbers. The complaints are unnecessary and baseless." His focus, he asserted, is singular: "Our focus is on Anioma and nothing more. Anioma people can never be distracted as their beautiful symphony of a new dawn resonates clearly across the fertile landscape of Delta North."
Celebrating the rich cultural and geographical tapestry of the region, Senator Nwoko lauded the unity and determination flowing from every corner of Delta North—from the lush rainforests of Aniocha/Oshimili to the scenic hills of Ika land and the vast settlements of Ndokwa/Ukwuani. He urged continued solidarity: "As we bask in the success of our journey so far, I enjoin all to remain resolute in our historic progressive movement towards the creation of Anioma. Let us move in oneness and love." He emphasised the noble character of the people: "We are a people of civility and good breeding. We are the people of Anioma, the good land. We must continue to pursue our desire with the best of decorum, to maintain the clarity of our vision, firmness of our conviction and nobility of our cause."
Historic Senate Public Hearing Fuels Momentum
Senator Nwoko also expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support received during the recent Senate Public Hearing on constitutional amendments, which included crucial deliberations on the proposed creation of Anioma State. He described the event, held on July 4th and 5th in Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, as “humbling and gratifying,” praising the massive turnout and unanimous endorsements.
“The mammoth presence of thousands of stakeholders from the nine local government areas of Delta North was overwhelming,” Nwoko stated. “Their strong, united voices in support of Anioma State reaffirm the nobility of our cause and the brightness of our future.”
Special appreciation was extended to President Bola Tinubu for fostering a conducive political environment, and to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his leadership during the hearings. Nwoko also thanked members of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, the Akwa Ibom State Government, and the traditional rulers from Delta North for their full participation and backing. “The royal delegation, led by the Obi of Ubulu-Uno and the Obi of Idumuje-Unor at both Ikot-Ekpene spoke in one voice in favour of Anioma. Their presence added a historic depth and unity to the effort,” Nwoko noted.
He further commended the Anioma State Technical Committee, co-chaired by traditional rulers HRM Professor Epiphany Azinge (Asagba of Asaba) and HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi (Dein of Agbor), for their strategic mobilisation and coordination. He acknowledged the "remarkable dedication" of the Secretariat committee team, particularly in "mobilizing thousands of enthusiastic participants across towns and villages to the Akwa-Ibom and Enugu states Public Hearing."
A 71-Year Battle: The Oldest State Creation Quest
Nwoko highlighted the deep historical roots of the Anioma agitation, noting it "predated my resolve as it started 71 years ago, beginning from the colonial times." He proudly declared it "The oldest and most consistent state creation quest in Nigeria’s history," pioneered by legendary Anioma leader, Sir Dennis Osadebay, the first premier of the Midwest region. The struggle has been gallantly led over the years by other illustrious sons like the late Asagba of Asaba, HRM Obi Professor Chike Edozien, Obi of Owa, HRM Emmanuel Efiezomor II, and Senator Nosike Ikpo.
“By God’s grace, the renaissance of Anioma state creation is a movement I am proud to reboot for the common good,” Nwoko concluded, reiterating his powerful vow: “Like I often proclaim: I DID NOT START THE FIGHT BUT I WILL FINISH IT!”
He expressed profound appreciation to the "mass pro-Anioma stakeholders," including community leaders, elders, youths, women, socio-cultural organisations, religious bodies, civil society, and pressure groups for "rising boldly to the occasion, with affirmative chants for Anioma." He also acknowledged the presence and support of the Igbanke community in Edo state, who clamoured for inclusion, and representatives of other Delta ethnic groups, whose submissions did not object to Anioma's creation.
Oganihu Anioma!
