In a bold declaration of renewed commitment, Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko has reaffirmed his unwavering resolve to see the long-standing dream of Anioma State become a reality, stating emphatically: “I did not start the fight, but I will finish it.”
Speaking in the aftermath of the Senate Public Hearing on Constitutional Amendments held July 4–5, 2025, in Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, the Senator representing Delta North described the overwhelming support from across Delta North as “momentous, colossal, and irreversible.”
With visible confidence and the endorsement of traditional rulers, political leaders, youth and women groups, and civil society organizations, Senator Nwoko emphasized that the Anioma movement has reached an unstoppable momentum.
“The fiery passion of the people for Anioma is too epic to be compared with the tiny talks of dissent. The loud voices of our kings, elders, women, youths, and over a million stakeholders demanding Anioma cannot be drowned by whispers from a few,” he declared.
Massive Turnout at Senate Public Hearing
Senator Nwoko, sponsor of the bill for the creation of Anioma State, expressed deep gratitude to all who attended the public hearing, describing the participation as “humbling and gratifying.”
“The mammoth presence of stakeholders from across the nine local government areas of Delta North reaffirmed the nobility of our cause and the brightness of our future,” he said.
He also highlighted that Anioma’s demand was a top agenda item during the hearing, which also addressed local government autonomy, gender equality, and electoral reforms.
A Legacy Rooted in History
Tracing the Anioma struggle to over seven decades ago, Nwoko paid tribute to late nationalist Sir Dennis Osadebay, first Premier of the Midwest Region, as well as other iconic Anioma leaders like the late Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Chike Edozien; HRM Emmanuel Efiezomor II of Owa; and Senator Nosike Ikpo, all of whom championed the cause at various times.
“By God’s grace, the renaissance of Anioma State creation is a movement I am proud to reboot for the common good,” Nwoko noted.
Broad-Based Endorsements
The Senator extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing a conducive political climate, and to Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his leadership and commitment to nation-building.
He also commended the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, led by Senator Seriake Dickson, for their dedication and professionalism, as well as the Akwa Ibom State Government for hosting the hearings with warm hospitality.
Delta North traditional rulers were lauded for their strong presence and united voice at both the Ikot-Ekpene and Enugu venues.
A high-powered delegation led by HRM Afamefuna Henry Kikachukwu, the Obi of Ubulu-Uno, and another led by HRM Chukwuwike Charles Anyasi III, the Obi of Idumuje-Unor, gave royal blessings to the Anioma cause.
Special mention was given to the Anioma State Technical Committee, chaired by HRM Prof. Epiphany Azinge (Asagba of Asaba) and co-chaired by HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi (Dein of Agbor), whose strategic mobilization brought thousands of Anioma citizens to the hearings.
The Anioma Spirit Is Alive
Highlighting the cultural and geographical richness of Delta North, from the lush rainforests of Aniocha/Oshimili, the scenic hills of Ika, to the vast settlements of Ndokwa/Ukwuani, Senator Nwoko described Anioma as a land of unity, civility, and purpose.
“Anioma people can never be distracted. Our beautiful symphony of a new dawn resonates clearly across the fertile landscape of Delta North,” he said.
“We must continue to pursue our desire with the best of decorum, to maintain the clarity of our vision, firmness of our conviction, and nobility of our cause.”
A Historic Movement Renewed
The public hearing, Senator Nwoko noted, evoked memories of the Anioma Stakeholders’ Summit held in August 2024, which served as a turning point for the present momentum.
He acknowledged the efforts of pro-Anioma stakeholders, civil society, youth groups, religious bodies, and representatives from neighboring ethnic communities, including the Igbanke community in Edo State, who expressed willingness to be part of the proposed state.
“This is a people-driven movement, rooted in justice, identity, and self-determination. Our goal is clear, our resolve is unshaken, and our unity is stronger than ever,” he affirmed.
In conclusion, Senator Nwoko offered a heartfelt message:
“From the depth of my heart, I salute your unwavering loyalty and dedication to Anioma—for the benefit of our forebears, present, and future generations. Oganihu Anioma!”
