(DDM) – Senator Ned Nwoko has called on the Anioma people of Delta State to fully embrace their Igbo identity and work collectively towards unity and political recognition within Nigeria.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the lawmaker, representing Delta North under the All Progressives Congress (APC), made this passionate appeal during the “Igbo Bu Ofu” (Igbos Are One) conference held in Asaba between August 29 and 30, 2025.
The summit was organised by the Igbo Unification Movement in collaboration with the Ndi na Asu Bia Socio-Cultural Organisation and drew scholars, traditional leaders, and cultural advocates from across Igbo-speaking communities in Nigeria.
Nwoko, who holds a degree in history, emphasised that the Anioma people share deep ancestral, cultural, and linguistic connections with Igbos from the Eastern region.
He said the time had come to correct decades of narrative distortion that sought to separate Anioma from its Igbo heritage.
The Senator recalled that he had sponsored a motion in the National Assembly for the creation of Anioma State, arguing that such recognition would cement the people’s identity and provide political balance.
He stressed that the agitation was beyond politics or party affiliations, saying it was rooted in justice, history, and fairness.
Nwoko expressed hope that one day, an Ndokwa son or daughter would emerge as the first governor of Anioma State, with Asaba as its capital.
He added that the initiative aligns with the aspirations of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which has long recognised Anioma as part of the Igbo nation.
The senator also shared his childhood memories of the Nigerian civil war, noting that identity crises dating back to that era must now give way to reconciliation and truth.
Citing the research of academics like Professor Abigail Ogwezzy of the University of Lagos, Nwoko said recent studies had further confirmed the historical and linguistic links between Anioma and the broader Igbo community.
He likened the Igbo identity to that of global ethnic groups, stressing that cultural identity does not change with location, just as a Chinese person remains Chinese regardless of where they live.
The conference, themed “Igbo Bu Ofu,” also saw cultural activists reaffirm the importance of unity for political strength and cultural revival.
The lawmaker urged the organisers and other socio-cultural groups to intensify advocacy, grassroots education, and mobilisation campaigns to strengthen Igbo identity across border regions like Anioma and Igbanke in Edo State.
He concluded that only through such deliberate efforts could the dream of a united Igbo nation and the creation of Anioma State become a reality.
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