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By Lizzy Chirkpi
As the agitation for the creation of Anioma State continues to build momentum nationwide, 85 senators in the 10th National Assembly have endorsed the initiative by appending their signatures in support.
There are indications that more senators are poised to join this growing movement in the coming weeks. Additionally, traditional rulers from the Southeast have publicly declared their backing, further solidifying the national consensus for the proposed state.
The collection of senators’ signatures follows a personal letter addressed to each senator of the 10th National Assembly by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents the Delta North Senatorial District in the Senate. Senator Nwoko is championing the creation of the new state, advocating for it in the interest of “national development, justice and federal balance.”
In a letter dated May 27, 2025, addressed to the Senate President and all distinguished members of the Senate, Nwoko sought their endorsement and support for the creation of Anioma State. This constitutional proposal is encapsulated in Senate Bill 481, which is currently undergoing legislative consideration as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process.
Senator Nwoko urged his colleagues to demonstrate courage, vision, and a commitment to justice, appealing, “Let us be remembered as the Senate that brought balance to Nigeria’s state structure and healed a longstanding national wound.”
In the letter, titled “Anioma as Equity State,” Nwoko emphasized that the creation of Anioma State is “not merely about redrawing boundaries or political convenience, it is a matter of equity, fair representation, and justice.” He highlighted that the Southeast currently has five states, while other geopolitical zones have six or seven states.
“Anioma State, to be carved out of Delta State, is a just and logical solution to this imbalance,” he asserted, describing Anioma as a region with deep cultural and historical ties to the Southeast. He added, “Its creation will not only bring balance to Nigeria’s geopolitical structure but also promote national unity by addressing a longstanding grievance of the Igbo nation.”
The Ndigbo Progressive Traditional Rulers Forum has also fully endorsed the campaign. In a letter dated May 15, 2025, signed by HRM Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu (Oroko Abia), Diawa I of Umudiawu Ancient Kingdom, who is the Chairman of the Forum, and HRM Igwe Sunny Orah, the Secretary, the traditional rulers commended Senator Nwoko for his leadership and pledged their “unwavering support.”
They wrote, “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. We are proud to identify with you in this historic endeavor and formally declare our support for the creation of Anioma State.”
They further pledged, “Our Forum is committed to adding our royal voice and influence to this just cause and collaborating with you in every constructive way possible.”