BY FRED ODU
The push for the creation of Anioma State gained fresh momentum as former lawmaker and Secretary of the Technical Committee, Rt. Hon. Ossai N. Ossai, declared that all necessary steps are being taken to actualize the long-awaited statehood.
In an exclusive interview in Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Ossai commended Senator Ned Nwoko for his unwavering commitment, stating that the Delta North senator had vowed to pursue the Anioma dream with legislative precision until it becomes reality.
He revealed that the Technical Committee had made notable progress in gathering vital documents and historical records of past and current agitations for Anioma State. These, he said, will form the foundation of their presentation at the scheduled public hearing slated for July 4 and 5 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Looking ahead, the former Ndokwa/Ukwuani representative expressed confidence in a fair and objective hearing by the relevant Senate Committee. He said the outcome of the hearing would be crucial for further legislative action on the floor of the Senate.
According to him, once passed by the Senate, the Bill will move to the House of Representatives for concurrence before being forwarded to the President for assent.
He pointed out that with 75 Senators already backing the Anioma State creation Bill, and the chances of more following suit, the Bill was good to go, adding that efforts were in place to secure identical two-third approval of the House of Representatives so that the Bill could fly.
According to him, other requirements were being handled by the Technical Committee made up notable traditional rulers, serving and former members of the House of Representatives from the region, representatives of the NBA, Civil Society Organizations, Anioma Professionals, Izu Anioma, Anioma Congress, Onu Ika, Ndokwa Neku Union, amongst others.
Hon Ossai called on sons and daughters of Anioma to mobilize fully for the public hearing which promises to be a significant turning point in the quest for Anioma State.
Meanwhile, Senator Ned Nwoko on Sunday inaugurated the technical committee for the creation of Anioma state. The inauguration was held at Ogwa Ukwu Ahaba.
According to the lawmaker, the formal inauguration was a key step in advancing the Bill he presented before the National Assembly for Anioma State creation.
He disclosed that the committee will be chaired by His Royal Majesty, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, the Asagba of Asaba, with His Royal Majesty, Benjamin Ikenchuku Keagborekuzi, the Dein of Agbor, as Co-Chairman, and His Royal Majesty, Obuenwe Johnson Ekpech, the Ezemu of Emu, as Vice Chairman.
He made special recognition to all the traditional rulers across Delta North who, by natural identity and royal responsibility, are integral members of the historic committee.
“The work has begun, with unity, clarity, and determination,” he said.
ADDITIONAL REPORT BY DANIEL DAFE
