In a bold and passionate statement, Senator Ned Nwoko has reiterated his unwavering commitment to the creation of Anioma State, declaring that though he did not initiate the current political fight, he is, however, determined to see it through to victory.
Speaking with renewed confidence and the backing of prominent stakeholders, Senator Nwoko emphasized that the support from traditional rulers, political leaders, women, youths, and the general populace across Delta North has been “momentous, colossal, and irreversible.”
Stating his resolve to the actualisation of Anioma state, he said: “I did not start the fight, but I will finish it,” underscoring his resolve amid what he described as “tiny talks of dissent” from a minority within the region.
He added: “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.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
Highlighting the cultural and geographical richness of the region, Senator Nwoko celebrated the unity and determination flowing from all corners 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 added: “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.
“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.”
In a similar vein, Senator Nwoko expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Anioma and stakeholders nationwide for their overwhelming support during the recent Senate Public Hearing on constitutional amendments, which included deliberations on the proposed creation of Anioma State.
Senator Nwoko described the event, held on July 4th and 5th in Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, as “humbling and gratifying,” hailing the massive turnout and unanimous endorsements from across the region.
“The mammoth presence of thousands of stakeholders from the nine local government areas of Delta North was overwhelming,” Nwoko said. “Their strong, united voices in support of Anioma State reaffirm the nobility of our cause and the brightness of our future.”
Senator Nwoko extended special appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for providing a conducive political environment, as well as to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his leadership during the hearings.
He also thanked members of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, the Akwa Ibom State Government, and 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 also 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 mobilization and coordination.
FULL TEXT OF SENATOR NWOKO’s STATEMENT TITLED ” THANK YOU ANIOMA PEOPLE & FRIENDS: OUR CAUSE IS NOBLE OUR FUTURE BRIGHT”
“ It is with deep joy and honour, that I wish to express profuse gratitude to the good people of Delta North Senatorial District and all the participants who gathered to support the creation of Anioma state at the Senate Public Hearing on Constitutional Review held Friday 4th -Saturday 5th July ,2025 at Ikot -Ekpene , Akwa Ibom state.
2. I am excited to note with a sense of purpose and great humility that the mass participation of Anioma people at the Public Hearing followed a Bill I sponsored for the creation of Anioma state as the Senator representing Delta North senatorial Distrat the National Assembly.
A BILL FOR AN ACT TO ALTER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA CAP.C23 LAWS OF TYR FEDERATION OF NIGERIA,2024 FOR THE CREATION OF ANIOMA STATE AND FOR MATTERS CONNECTED THEREWITH.
3.The mammoth presence of thousands of stakeholders, drawn from various communities across the nine (9) local government areas of Delta North was overwhelming and humbling.
Indeed, I am happy and fulfilled with the very impressive outcome of the public hearing – unanimous acclamation and affirmation , through powerful speeches and engaging memoranda by critical stakeholders, all endorsing the creation of Anioma state.
4.It is quite symbolic that demand for Anioma topped agenda at the Constitutional Review event organized by the 10th Senate of the National Assembly, which also featured deliberations on Local Government Autonomy, Gender equality,Electoral and institutional reforms.
5.Nothing can be more gratifying. The groundswell of support from all quarters has proven that our ANIOMA cause is noble and our future bright.
6.Let me first express special appreciation to His Excellency,Bola Tinubu, (GCFR), President and Commander- in – Chief of the federal republic of Nigeria for providing visionary leadership and the right political environment which contributed immensely to the huge success of the public hearing.
My gratitude also goes to the Senate president, Senator Godswill Akpabio who not only chaired the successful public hearing but also voiced strong commitment to nation building, including the progress of Anioma people.
7.My commendation to the chairman and members of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, especially the distinguished Senators who attended the Ikot -Ekpene Pubic Hearing,led by Senator Seriake Dickson.
Equally worthy of appreciation for their hospitable goodwill,are the government and people of Akwa – Ibom state,under the able administration of His Excellency Governor Umor Eno and his deputy Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi .
8.With total reverence, I thank Delta North Traditional Rulers, who attended the Ikot -Ekpene gathering in large numbers, a powerful delegation led by HRM Afamefuna Henry Kikachukwu, Obi of Ubulu – uno and 2nd Vice Chairman,Delta state Traditional Rulers Council. At a similar senate public hearing held simultaneously at Enugu, another colourful team of Delta North kings, led by HRM Chukwuwike Charles Anyasi III, Obi of Idumuje-unor made outstanding showing. Collectively in one voice ,all the Delta North monarchs spoke in favour of the creation of Anioma state and gave their royal blessings.
I also respectfully extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Technical Committee on the creation of Anioma state, led by HRM Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, Asagba of Asaba as chairman and HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi, Dein of Agbor as co- chairman. The efforts of the leadership and members of the committee are invaluable. I thank the Secretariat committee team leader,Chief Godfrey Odogwu and the various members for their remarkable dedication to duty,
Particularly in mobilizing thousands of enthusiastic participants across towns and villagers to the Akwa -Ibom and Enugu states Public Hearing.
9.My profound appreciation to the mass pro-Anioma stakeholders, including community leaders, elders, youths, women,socio cultural organizations,religious bodies, civil society and pressure groups for rising boldly to the occasion,with affirmative chants for Anioma.
I note with deep acknowledgment the presence and support of the Igbanke community in Edo state, who made submissions at the public hearing, clamouring for inclusion in the proposed Anioma state. My affectionate gratitude to some of the representatives of other ethnic groups within Delta whose submissions at the Ikot -Ekpene raised no objection to the creation of Anioma out from Delta.
10.Above all appreciation, I give solemn gratitude to God for divine guidance.
11.The spectacular success of the Senate public hearing is an enchanting reminder of the much – celebrated ANIOMA STAKEHOLDERS’ SUMMIT,held on Saturday 31st August 2024 at Nnebisi Hall,Grand Hotel, Asaba, Delta state, which opened a glorious vista for all-embracing conversations and consultations, culminating in widespread approval.
12.The agitation for Anioma predated my resolve as it started 71 years,beginning from the colonial times.
The oldest and most consistent state creation quest in Nigeria’s history . It was pioneered by legendary Anioma leader, Sir Dennis Osadebay of blessed memory,first premier of Midwest region. The struggle had continued over the years with other Anioma illustrious sons like late Asagba of Asaba,HRM Obi Professor Chike Edozien, Obi of Owa, HRM Emmanuel Efiezomor II and Senator Nosike Ikpo among others, gallantly leading the movement at various times.
13.By God’s grace the renaissance of Anioma state creation is a movement I am proud to reboot for common good.
Like I often proclaim : I DID NOT START THE FIGHT BUT I WILL FINISH IT!
14.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.
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, colossal and irreversible. The loud voices of kings, leaders, men, women, youths and the general populace , encompassing over a million stakeholders ,all demanding Anioma is too epic to juxtapose with whispers of less than a dozen numbers. The complaints are unnecessary and baseless.
15.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. From the evergreen rainforests of Aniocha/Oshimili,alluring Ndokwa/Ukwuani settlement to the scenic hills of Ika land.
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.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.
16.From the depth of my heart ,I salute your unwavering loyalty and dedication to Anioma, for the benefit of our forebears, present and future generations.
Thank you all
Oganihu Anioma!
Signed :
SENATOR PRINCE NED MUNIR NWOKO,DELTA NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT
