AKWA IBOM, Nigeria — July 4, 2025 — The dream of creating Anioma State, a long-standing aspiration of the people of Delta North Senatorial District, once again echoed powerfully at a public hearing hosted by the Nigerian Senate in Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The hearing, part of the ongoing Constitution Review by the 10th National Assembly, brought together thousands of people from across the South-South region — including traditional rulers, youth groups, civil society organizations, and political leaders — all united in one voice: “Give us Anioma!”
The movement to create Anioma State began as far back as 1954, making it 71 years old. For the Anioma people, who currently live in the northern part of Delta State, this is not just a political wish — it’s a fight for identity, fairness, and representation.
A Bill in the Senate
The current push for Anioma State was reignited by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North in the Senate. He sponsored a bill for the creation of Anioma, making it one of the top issues debated at the constitutional hearing.
Presiding over the event was Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who emphasized that the goal of the public hearing was “to ensure that the voices of the people are heard.” The hearing also addressed other issues like local government autonomy, gender equality, and electoral reforms — but Anioma was clearly the most passionate and popular topic.
United Royal Voices
Speaking on behalf of all Anioma traditional rulers, HRM Obi Afamefuna Henry Kikachukwu, the Obi of Ubulu-Uno and Vice Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, said that the royal fathers fully support the creation of Anioma State.
He reminded the Senate that Anioma’s quest is the oldest state agitation in Nigeria, beginning during colonial times. “For over seven decades, our people have waited. We believe the time is now,” he said.
A Cry for Justice and Healing
A coalition of over 100 civil society and cultural groups, represented by Dr. Omenazu Jackson, also supported the demand. According to them, creating Anioma State would not only bring equity to the region, but also heal the historical wounds caused by the Anioma genocide during the Nigerian Civil War in the 1960s.
Legal expert Barrister Tony Ogana submitted a formal memorandum backing the creation of the new state, calling it a “bold step towards justice, fairness, and national unity.”
Even Neighboring Communities Want In
Interestingly, even communities outside Delta State are interested in joining Anioma. Pastor Nwachukwu Ugbekile James, speaking for the Igbanke community in Edo State, said that his people share roots with the Anioma people and should be included in the proposed state.
Voices of Gratitude
Many speakers praised Senator Ned Nwoko for pushing the Anioma cause with “unprecedented passion.” They came from different parts of Delta North — including Aniocha/Oshimili, Ndokwa/Ukwuani, and Ika communities — and described the bill as a light finally shining on a long-neglected dream.
High-Profile Supporters
Other key figures at the hearing included:
- Senator Seriake Dickson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitution Review
- Senator Ede Dafinone
- Senator Adams Oshiomhole
- Senator Florence Ita-Giwa
- Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who represented Governor Umo Eno
What Happens Next?
The strong show of support at the Senate hearing is a major step forward for the Anioma dream. However, for Anioma State to be created, the bill must still pass through several stages, including:
- Approval by two-thirds of the National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives)
- Approval by two-thirds of the state assemblies across Nigeria
- The President signing it into law
Still, many believe that this is the closest Anioma has ever come to achieving statehood.
