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Anioma State: A Step Towards Equity or an Igbo Agenda?

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The call for the creation of Anioma State has once again taken center stage, with Delta North Senator, Ned Nwoko, emphasizing that it is not merely a political ambition but a matter of justice, fairness, and equity.

During the 2024 OTU Oka-Iwu Week, Nwoko articulated a compelling case for Anioma State, asserting that it represents a significant step towards addressing the long-standing socio-political imbalances faced by the Igbo people.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that this declaration has reignited debates about the necessity and implications of carving out Anioma State from Delta.

Anioma, meaning “Good Land” in the Igbo language, has a rich history that dates back centuries.

Despite its strong cultural and historical identity as part of the Igbo ethnic group, the Anioma people were integrated into Delta State during Nigeria’s state creation exercises, which often prioritized administrative convenience over cultural cohesion.

Since then, Anioma leaders and stakeholders have persistently advocated for the recognition of their distinct identity through statehood.

The Anioma agitation gained significant momentum during the Second Republic when leaders like Chief Dennis Osadebay, who served as the Premier of the Mid-Western Region, highlighted the region’s neglect in terms of infrastructure, economic development, and political representation.

Decades later, figures like Ned Nwoko are renewing this call, framing it as a matter of justice rather than regional politics.

Speaking during the OTU Oka-Iwu Week, Nwoko argued that the establishment of Anioma State would serve as a platform for the Igbo people to achieve balanced representation at the national level.

In a statement released by his media consultant, Mike Ogah Gabriel, Nwoko pointed out that the Igbo nation, despite its historical contributions to Nigeria, continues to face marginalization within the country’s political framework.

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“The creation of Anioma State goes beyond politics—it is about fairness and equity,” Nwoko asserted.

According to him, the current structure of Nigeria fails to address the distinct needs of Anioma, leaving its people politically and economically disadvantaged.

He also emphasized that unity among the Igbo people is critical for the success of this quest. “The Igbo people must come together to achieve their collective aspirations.

Unity is not an option; it is a necessity,” he stated.

Nwoko further contended that Anioma State would bridge the gap between the Igbo-speaking regions and the broader Nigerian polity.

By granting Anioma statehood, the Igbo would have an additional voice in national affairs, enhancing their ability to push for equitable policies.

While Nwoko’s advocacy for Anioma State has been applauded by many, it has also drawn criticism.

Detractors argue that the call for Anioma State is part of a broader Igbo agenda to increase their political influence in Nigeria. Critics from other ethnic groups in Delta State contend that creating Anioma State would exacerbate existing tensions, especially among the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw populations, who fear further marginalization.

Others question whether Anioma State is the best solution to the Igbo people’s challenges.

Some argue that focusing on economic development and addressing infrastructure deficits across the South-East might yield more tangible benefits than state creation, which often comes with its own challenges, including resource allocation disputes and administrative inefficiencies.

Additionally, skeptics point out that Nigeria’s history of state creation has not always resulted in equity or development for the new states.

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For example, many of Nigeria’s existing states struggle with issues such as poor governance, lack of infrastructure, and financial instability. Would Anioma State face the same fate?

Despite the controversies, the call for Anioma State resonates deeply with the people of Delta North, who see it as a long-overdue recognition of their identity and contributions.

Nwoko’s passionate advocacy has not only rekindled hope among Anioma indigenes but also spotlighted broader questions about justice, equity, and representation in Nigeria’s federal system.

Ultimately, the creation of Anioma State would require navigating a complex maze of political negotiations, constitutional amendments, and popular support.

It would also demand unity among the Igbo people, as Nwoko has stressed, and cooperation with other ethnic groups to address fears of domination or exclusion.

Whether Anioma State becomes a reality or remains an aspiration, its advocacy underscores a deeper truth: the need to reevaluate Nigeria’s federal structure and ensure that every region, regardless of size or ethnic composition, has a fair chance to thrive.For now, the debate continues, with Anioma’s quest for statehood symbolizing the broader struggles of minority groups across the country.

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