The drive for the creation of Anioma State, championed by Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, gained momentum over the weekend in Asaba, Delta State, with the emergence of a new pressure group, De Believers Organization. This group has pledged to actively support the Anioma State creation agenda, which has been rekindled by Senator Nwoko’s legislative efforts in the Senate.
The movement for Anioma State creation, which spans over 50 years, received a major boost last year after Senator Nwoko introduced a bill on the floor of the Senate advocating for its establishment. Over 200 socio-cultural, youth, and civil society groups, along with faith-based organizations and traditional institutions nationwide, have already thrown their weight behind the initiative. Speaking during the inauguration of De Believers Group in Asaba, stakeholders from the nine local government areas of Delta North expressed unanimous support for the Senator’s commitment to the Anioma cause.
Hon. Nicholas Ossai Ossai, a former member of the House of Representatives and convener of De Believers Group, described the creation of Anioma State as “a compelling historical desire” and praised Senator Nwoko’s efforts in reigniting the movement. “The body stands at the forefront of the Anioma State creation movement and aligns strongly with the patriotic and noble efforts of Senator Ned Nwoko,” Hon. Ossai stated. He called for unity among Anioma stakeholders, noting that the proposed state’s creation would pave the way for the social, economic, and political revival of the Anioma people.
In an interview, High Chief Ugo Asibelue, head of Senator Ned Nwoko’s senatorial office in Asaba, commended the Senator’s selfless dedication to the Anioma agenda. He noted that Nwoko’s advocacy led to the widely celebrated Anioma Stakeholders Summit held last year in Asaba, which further solidified support for the state creation initiative. High Chief Asibelue reiterated that Senator Nwoko remains committed to realizing Anioma State as a means of addressing regional inequalities and fostering balanced development.
Stakeholders at the De Believers Group meeting emphasized that the creation of Anioma State would address critical issues such as insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and hunger. They urged cooperation from all quarters, stating that Anioma State’s formation would ensure equitable representation and development in the region. The group also commended Senator Nwoko for his impactful representation and persistence in pushing the Anioma State creation bill, which continues to garner widespread support from stakeholders within and beyond Delta State.
