Traditional rulers and community leaders from Igbanke, a culturally Anioma community in Edo State, paid a solidarity visit to Senator Ned Munir Nwoko on Friday, reaffirming their support for the creation of Anioma State and advocating for their inclusion in the new state structure.
The high-level delegation, led by Ambassador Chief Jude Ogbekile and His Royal Highness Boba Igiebor, the Obi of Idumuodin, was received at Senator Nwoko’s country home in Idumuje-Ugboko. The visit marks a renewed push by the Igbanke community to secure a place in the emerging political map of Anioma State — a movement vigorously championed by Senator Nwoko in the National Assembly.
Speaking during the visit, Chief Ogbekile stressed that Igbanke, despite its location in Edo State, shares deep cultural and ethnic ties with the Anioma (Igbo) identity. “We are Igbo people living in Edo. Igbanke is not Bini. Our history, language, and traditions align with Anioma, and we are here to restate our commitment to being part of this new state,” he declared.
HRH Obi Boba Igiebor echoed the sentiment, noting that the people of Igbanke are fully aligned with the goals of the Anioma State movement. “Our roots are Anioma. The creation of Anioma State will restore our cultural identity and give us the recognition and development we've long deserved,” he said.
To reinforce their stance, the delegation presented an e-flyer bearing the message: "IGBANKE IS NOT BINI — Igbankes Are Igbo Community in Edo State." The gesture emphasized their collective plea for inclusion in the proposed state.
This latest visit follows a similar show of solidarity in November 2024, when monarchs from Igbanke and Obazagbon also backed the Anioma cause. At each turn, community leaders have argued that the creation of Anioma State would not only affirm their identity but also enhance political representation and stimulate regional development.
Senator Nwoko, a prominent voice in the campaign for state creation, has continued to push for the recognition and inclusion of cultural Anioma communities, regardless of their current geopolitical alignments.
As the movement for Anioma State gains momentum, Igbanke’s leaders are making their case clear: their place is with Anioma — culturally, historically, and politically.
