Participants at the Senate committee public hearing on the creation of Anioma state on Friday were unanimous in their support for the creation of the state. The event which held at Ikot Ekpene in Akwa Ibom state was a gathering of Anioma people who are desirous of achieving a long term goal of statehood.
While numerous bills were presented for review by the constitution review committee, it was the proposal for the creation of Anioma State that stirred the most passionate response from the participants.
The tightly packed hall erupted with thunderous “No!” chants when Senator Seriake Dickson, South South zonal Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, asked if there were any objections to the bill. Every voice resonated with total acceptance of the submissions made by each presenter at the historic event.
Moments later, shouts of joy and cultural dances filled the venue, underscoring the deep-rooted desire of the Anioma people for statehood.
Over half of the attendees were Anioma indigenes and supporters, many of whom traveled across multiple states to witness and participate in what they described as an epoch making moment.
From lawmakers to traditional rulers and civil society representatives, women and youths, every voice aligned in one direction: Anioma State must be created.
For them, the time for liberation and cultural identity has come. The speakers urged the constitution review committee to do the needful and write their name in gold.
“The demand for Anioma State is not just constitutional; it is just, long overdue, and deeply desired by our people,” said Hon. Somadina Anwasia from Oshimili South. “Everyone from Anioma who spoke at the public hearing did so with one voice, we want our own state.”
Senator Ned Nwoko, the leading advocate for the creation of Anioma State, received widespread praise at the event for his relentless pursuit of the Anioma cause.
He described the event as a defining moment for the Anioma people, noting the overwhelming turnout from various segments of the community, including traditional rulers, youth leaders, professionals, and elders.
“The voice of Anioma echoed clearly,” the Senator stated. “This cause is rooted in history, legitimacy, and justice. We have crossed every hurdle required of us—from documentation to consensus.”
He expressed deep gratitude for the unity and conviction displayed by the Anioma delegation, emphasizing that their continued support reinforces the mandate he carries. Senator Nwoko also paid special tribute to the royal fathers who traveled long distances to lend their voices and presence to the cause.
Supporters celebrated him as a visionary who stood firm despite skepticism. “If you can dream it and are willing to fight for it, nothing is impossible,” Senator Nwoko said.
Speakers emphasized the potential benefits of Anioma State, citing improved governance, reduced unemployment, economic development, and cultural preservation. Many argued that the creation of Anioma State would correct long-standing political and historical imbalances.
Dr. Leroy Edozien, an APC chieftain from Delta State, said, “After over five decades of advocacy, the journey is finally reaching its climax. What we witnessed at the public hearing shows that Anioma’s time has come.”
High Chief Lucky Ikukaiwe, who represented the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), echoed this sentiment: “The Ndokwa people are united in this call. Anioma State is our aspiration, and we are committed to seeing it happen.”
Legal practitioner and community leader Tony Ogana recalled that the call for Anioma State dates back to 1954. “This is not a new demand. We are simply asking the Senate to fulfill a long-standing request.”
From a human rights perspective, Dr. Omenazu Jackson of the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights described the push for Anioma State as “a petition for equity and a demand for justice.”
He highlighted Anioma’s population of over 2.4 million, its oil and gas resources, a strong agricultural base, and an educated workforce as indicators of its viability.
“Anioma is not asking for charity,” Dr. Jackson said. “It is offering itself as a productive partner in the Nigerian project.
“Creating Anioma State is constitutionally sound, economically wise, and morally compelling. It can be a unifying act and a symbol of renewed hope in the Nigerian dream.”
As the public hearing drew to a close, one message stood tall above the rest: the people of Anioma are ready. With unity, cultural pride, and a clear vision for their future, they made it known that the time for Anioma State has come.
As the participants filed out of the hall, one could see a people united with a common purpose, a common dream and a desire to achieve a goal for for future generations.
