The decades-long aspiration for the creation of Anioma State has gained renewed momentum, as the people of Anioma in Delta State express profound appreciation to the federal government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) for advancing their cause.
This renewed push, which has received significant institutional support, is anchored on the desire to rectify long-standing structural imbalances in Nigeria’s federation—particularly as they affect the Igbo-speaking communities in the South-South.
The public hearing for the Anioma State creation request is now officially slated to begin on July 4, 2025, marking what many believe could be a historic turning point in the journey toward statehood.
In a statement issued by Chief Osita Tonnie Oganah, Director of Media and Publicity for the Anioma State Creation Movement, the group conveyed its sincere gratitude to the APC for giving priority to the request. According to Oganah, the consistent efforts to actualize Anioma State are not only a matter of equity and justice but also of national importance.
“The support given to the Anioma State initiative has been highly encouraging,” the statement noted. “It offers a real chance to redress the marginalization of the Igbos within the current federal arrangement. Asaba—once Nigeria’s first capital and a city that bore deep scars from the Nigerian Civil War—holds both symbolic and strategic relevance to this cause.”
The Anioma people, predominantly Igbo by ethnicity, occupy nine local government areas in Delta State: Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West, Ika North-East, Ika South, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ukwuani. These communities have consistently rallied for recognition and equitable inclusion in the Nigerian state structure.
Proponents argue that the creation of Anioma State would not only promote national integration but also be economically feasible.
The proposed state is blessed with abundant natural resources—including oil, gas, and other minerals—capable of sustaining its development.
Additionally, with Asaba already hosting modern government infrastructure such as the Government House, Secretariat, and Commissioners’ Quarters, the cost of establishing a new capital would be minimal.
The statement also acknowledged the infrastructural development of Warri, another major city in Delta State, as evidence that the region is prepared to function effectively within a redefined state framework.
Support for the creation of Anioma State continues to grow across political lines. The Anioma people applauded Senators Joel Onowakpo and Ede Dafinone for their endorsement of the movement.
However, special commendation was directed toward Senator Ned Nwoko of Delta North, described as the chief driver and leading advocate of the statehood struggle. Nwoko’s efforts are being bolstered by strong backing from traditional rulers, youth organizations, market women, artisans, and the region’s political and business elite.
Historically, the quest for Anioma State is rooted in Nigeria’s early post-colonial political evolution. The agitation began as far back as the 1950s, championed by nationalist icon and former Premier of the Mid-Western Region, the late Ojiba Ahaba Dennis Osadebe.
He was joined in the movement by other notable figures including the late Idisi Dafe of Obiaruku, the traditional ruler of Idumuje-Ugboko, Obi Nwoko, and the revered Sir George Orewa.
Another key contributor was the late Chief Humphrey Iwerebon, popularly called Mkpitime, from the Ika ethnic group, who played an instrumental role in strengthening the grassroots foundation of the campaign.
As the July public hearing approaches, optimism runs high across the Anioma region. For the people, this is not just about redrawing state boundaries—it is about correcting historical wrongs, securing a rightful place within the Nigerian federation, and building a prosperous future for generations to come.