The campaign for the creation of Anioma State has gained significant momentum, with 85 senators of the 10th National Assembly already endorsing the initiative by signing their support ahead of crucial public hearings.
This growing support marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to amend Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as the Senate Committee on the Review of the Constitution prepares for zonal public hearings scheduled for July 4 and 5, 2025.
The hearings will be held simultaneously across six geopolitical zones: Lagos (South-West), Enugu (South-East), Ikot Ekpene (South-South), Jos (North-Central), Maiduguri (North-East), and Kano (North-West).
Sources close to the legislative process indicate that more senators are expected to sign on in the coming weeks, boosting what has been described as a “new national consensus for equity” underpinning the push for Anioma State.
Nwoko Leads Legislative Advocacy
The wave of endorsements follows a personal appeal by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, who is spearheading the campaign for the state’s creation.
In a letter dated May 27, 2025, addressed to the Senate President and all members of the 10th Senate, Nwoko requested formal endorsement for the proposal now officially captured under Senate Bill 481, currently under legislative consideration as part of the constitutional amendment process.
“Let us be remembered as the Senate that brought balance to Nigeria’s state structure and healed a longstanding national wound,” Nwoko wrote in the letter titled “Anioma as Equity State.”
He stressed that the campaign transcends political convenience, describing it as a quest for justice, fair representation, and national cohesion.
He pointed out the geopolitical disparity where the South-East has only five states, compared to six or seven in other zones.
“Anioma State, to be carved out of Delta State, is a just and logical solution to this imbalance,” Nwoko argued.
He emphasized Anioma’s strong cultural and historical affinity with the South-East, stating that its creation would “address a deep-seated grievance of the Igbo nation” and further promote national unity.
Traditional Rulers Declare Support
Further boosting the campaign, the Ndigbo Progressive Traditional Rulers Forum issued a formal letter of endorsement, praising Senator Nwoko’s leadership and courage.
In the letter dated May 15, 2025, signed by HRM Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu (Oroko Abia), Diawa I of Umudiawu Ancient Kingdom, Chairman of the Forum, and HRM Igwe Sunny Orah, Secretary, the royal fathers pledged their collective support.
“Your vision, passion, and courage in championing this noble cause resonate deeply with our mission as traditional rulers to uphold unity and fairness among all Igbo people,” the letter stated.
“We are proud to identify with you in this historic endeavour and formally declare our support for the creation of Anioma State. Our forum is committed to adding our royal voice and influence to this just cause.”
With traditional rulers, lawmakers, and advocacy groups rallying behind the cause, the Anioma State movement is increasingly being seen as a unifying national project rooted in fairness, inclusion, and constitutional equity.
— Credit: ARISE TV
