Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North senatorial district, has reaffirmed his commitment to the creation of Anioma State, emphasizing that his support stems from a deep dedication to the welfare and progress of his constituents. Nwoko made this declaration during the Anioma stakeholders summit held over the weekend in Asaba, which brought together participants from all nine local government areas within the senatorial district.
At the summit, Nwoko dismissed rumors about his alleged gubernatorial ambitions, stating that his primary focus is on advancing the interests of the Anioma people. He advocated for the first governor of Anioma State to come from the Ndokwa region, a significant yet marginalized area within the district, despite its substantial contributions to the economy through oil production.
“My goal is to secure freedom for my people. The first governor of Anioma State should come from Ndokwa land. Despite being home to three oil-producing local government areas, the Ndokwa region remains neglected, with its environment suffering from severe degradation,” Nwoko asserted.
He drew parallels between the potential benefits of creating Anioma State and the transformation witnessed when Delta State was carved out of the former Bendel State, noting how Asaba evolved from a small village into a thriving city after becoming the state capital. Nwoko also highlighted the political advantages of state creation, such as increased representation in the Senate, House of Representatives, and state assembly.
Supporting Nwoko’s stance, the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi I, endorsed the push for Anioma State, stating that the agitation is legitimate and should not be politicized. The monarch, who was a special guest at the summit, encouraged the pursuit of statehood as a means of fostering development and unity within the country.
Chief Dan Okenyi, the chairman of the Local Organising Committee, explained that the summit aimed to unite all Anioma stakeholders to build consensus and forge a common front toward achieving the longstanding aspiration for statehood. He expressed hope that the summit would result in resolutions that would energize the Anioma State creation bill currently before the Senate.
