By Ogbueshi Godfrey Odogwu
The renewed agitation for the creation of Anioma State took a decisive turn on August 31, 2024, when Distinguished Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, after months of extensive consultations across Anioma land, convened a historic Summit of Ndi Anioma at the Grand Hotel, Asaba.
The summit brought together stakeholders to deliberate on the future of Anioma and the long-standing quest for statehood.
That day, over 3,000 Anioma sons and daughters thronged the Nnebisi Hall, joined by more than 25 Traditional Rulers and dozens of high chiefs from Aniocha/Oshimili, Ika, Ukwuani, and Ndokwa.
Professional bodies, students, youth groups, artisans, women’s associations, and community organizations were also well represented.
Even those who could not gain entry into the packed hall remained outside, dancing to Anioma traditional music in solidarity.
The summit was marked by a unifying chorus from speakers and royal fathers alike: “Thank you, Senator Ned Nwoko, for championing this renewed quest. We want Anioma State now!”
This overwhelming endorsement, led by Anioma’s traditional rulers, emboldened Senator Nwoko to sponsor a bill for the creation of Anioma as the 37th State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
That bill has since passed first and second readings in the Senate, and at public hearings it secured the resounding backing of millions of Anioma indigenes, as well as more than 90 Senators and numerous Members of the House of Representatives across Nigeria.
The stage is now set for the crucial third reading and, ultimately, a referendum where Ndi Anioma must mobilize for a unanimous “YES” vote.
Tribute to Our Royal Fathers
It is fitting to pay special tribute to Anioma’s revered traditional rulers, not only the 25 who voiced their support at last year’s summit but also the 30 who gathered on June 15, 2025, at Ogwa Uku, Asaba, for the inauguration of the Technical Committee on the Creation of Anioma State, of which they are members.
Foremost among them is the Asagba of Asaba, HRM Asagba (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge, a brilliant legal luminary who has sustained the vision of Anioma State, following in the patriotic footsteps of his late predecessor, HRM Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien.
Alongside him, the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi I, has been a consistent voice of support, co-chairing the Technical Committee inauguration with the Asagba.
Fifteen royal majesties also journeyed to Ikot Ekpene and Enugu to attend public hearings at the Senate and House of Representatives, lending their visible presence and moral authority to the agitation.
Their names, from the Obi of Atuma to the Olije of Igbanke, form a roll call of honor in Anioma’s struggle for statehood.
Only recently, Senator Nwoko received in Abuja HRM Uche Erenuma II (Obi of Abavo), HRM Obi Chukwuka Ogbudo (Obi of Atuma), and HRM Paul Ifeneziuche JP (Igwe of Amai). Their visit reinforced Anioma’s united front. The Obi of Abavo, in a bold declaration, stated:
“I stand to support the creation of Anioma State, regardless of the zone. The most important thing is for all the people of Anioma to have a state to call our own.”
Beyond Zoning: The Real Prize
This statement captures the wisdom Anioma must embrace. After more than 71 years of agitation, Anioma stands on the threshold of victory.
The fixation on zoning, whether South-South or South-East, must not derail this historic opportunity. The majority of Ndi Anioma simply desire a state of their own, regardless of geopolitical alignment.
The focus should remain on the immense political, economic, and socio-cultural benefits Anioma State will bring: purposeful governance, accelerated development, and cultural consolidation for our people.
A Call to Unity
As custodians of Anioma’s heritage, our traditional rulers have been unwavering pillars in this struggle. Their collective message, as we approach the referendum, must be clear and resolute:
“Support the creation of Anioma State, regardless of the zone.”
This must become our new slogan, our anthem of unity, and our rallying cry. Anioma is on the cusp of freedom, and we must seize this moment with one voice, one spirit, and one determination.
A beautiful future beckons. Anioma, the good land, is set to take her rightful place in Nigeria’s federation.
