The Aniocha-Oshimili Elders’ Association, popularly known as Izu Ikei, has thrown its weight behind Senator Ned Nwoko’s push for the creation of Anioma State.
Speaking at an event in Asaba, Chairman of the association, Prince Sir Clement Okonjo, declared: “We want Anioma State and we have made our position known to the person pushing for it. And I want to let out this secret. Ned Nwoko didn’t just start the agitation today. It’s been there since he was in the House of Representatives.”
Prince Okonjo recalled that the Anioma struggle dates back to the creation of Delta State, noting that Nwoko has consistently amplified the cause. He dismissed debates over where the proposed state should be zoned, insisting that what mattered was securing a state for the Anioma people.
“Let us have the state. We will remain where we are with our human and natural resources… we will have our Governor, three Senators, House of Reps members, State Assembly members, councillors, appointees, job opportunities, and our share of FAAC funds. So let us support Ned Nwoko to see the dream of our state come true,” he stressed.
Okonjo further urged detractors to step aside: “Some of our sons who had the opportunity to fight for the state failed to do so and today they are opposing the agitation for no just cause. Let those who don’t want the state relocate to wherever they like. We want Anioma and will remain here and fight for it. Period.”
