Participants at the Senate Committee’s Public Hearing on the creation of Anioma State, held on Friday in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, were unanimous in their demand for the recognition of Anioma as Nigeria’s 37th state.
The hearing, convened as part of the ongoing constitutional review process by the 10th Senate, witnessed a massive turnout of Anioma indigenes and supporters who described the moment as historic and long overdue.
Although several constitutional bills were presented for consideration, it was the proposal for the creation of Anioma State, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko of Delta North, that generated the most emotional and passionate response.
When the South-South Zonal Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Senator Seriake Dickson, asked if there were any objections to the proposal, the hall erupted with a resounding “No!”.
The spontaneous roar of affirmation was immediately followed by jubilant chants, traditional dances, and thunderous applause, signifying the people’s unity and desire for self-determination.
Over half of the attendees were Anioma indigenes, many of whom had travelled from various parts of the country to witness what they described as a “defining moment in their long-standing quest for statehood.”
From traditional rulers to civil society organizations, youth groups, and community leaders, every voice aligned with a single message: “Anioma State must be created.”
A Long-Standing Dream, A Renewed Momentum
Speaking on behalf of the people of Oshimili South, Hon. Somadina Anwasia declared,
“The demand for Anioma State is not just constitutional—it is moral, just, and deeply rooted in our history. For over 70 years, our people have cried for identity, inclusion, and equity.”
Senator Ned Nwoko, the lead sponsor of the bill, received overwhelming praise for his dedication to the Anioma cause. Describing the hearing as a “watershed moment,” he expressed deep appreciation to the delegation of Anioma traditional rulers, professionals, and grassroots stakeholders who lent their voices to the movement.
“The voice of Anioma echoed loud and clear today. This cause is grounded in legitimacy and justice. We have fulfilled every constitutional requirement, from documentation to grassroots consensus,” Senator Nwoko stated.
He commended the royal fathers who travelled from across Delta North to attend the hearing, describing their presence as both symbolic and impactful.
Voices of Solidarity and Advocacy
Several prominent voices added weight to the call for Anioma State:
Dr. Leroy Edozien, a chieftain of the APC in Delta State, said:
“This is the culmination of over five decades of advocacy. The unity we witnessed here today is proof that Anioma’s time has come.”
High Chief Lucky Ikukaiwe, representing the Ndokwa Neku Union (NNU), echoed:
“Ndokwa is fully aligned with this demand. We see Anioma State as our collective aspiration, and we are resolute in our support.”
Barrister Tony Ogana, a legal practitioner and community advocate, recalled that the demand for Anioma State dates back to 1954:
“This is not a new request. It is a continuation of a legitimate plea that has endured for generations.”
From a human rights standpoint, Dr. Omenazu Jackson of the International Society for Social Justice and Human Rights said:
“Anioma is not asking for a favour, it is making a constitutional and moral case. With a population of over 2.4 million, vast oil and gas reserves, fertile farmlands, and an educated workforce, Anioma is viable and ready to contribute to national development.”
He added that the creation of Anioma State would be “an act of justice, national reconciliation, and a symbol of renewed hope in the Nigerian dream.”
Unity, Vision, and Resolve
As the public hearing concluded, the mood was one of celebration and collective resolve. Participants left the hall energized, united by a common purpose and a shared vision for future generations.
For the people of Anioma, the hearing was not just a political milestone, it was a declaration of identity, heritage, and the unwavering belief that the time for Anioma State has come.
