Senator Ned Munir Nwoko has assured that the creation of Anioma State is effectively settled, as he received traditional rulers and stakeholders from the Igbanke community during a courtesy visit to his country home. He emphasized that the Anioma State project has moved beyond speculation and is firmly anchored on documented agreements, established legislative processes, and constitutional procedure at the National Assembly.
The Igbanke delegation was led by notable traditional rulers, including HRM Obi Lucky Chukwukama Osunde, Obi of Oligie; HRM Edobor Uwaifo, PhD, Obi of Omolua Igbanke; HRM Dr. Julius Chukwuyem Isitor, Obi of Ottah; and HRM Dr. Ngozi Otabor Ogiebor, Obi of Idumodin Igbanke. Also present were prominent chiefs, Chief Barrister Isioma Ugbortor and Chief Jude O. Ogbekile.
Addressing the delegation, Senator Nwoko provided a detailed briefing on the constitutional and legislative milestones recorded so far in the Anioma State creation process. He reiterated that the South-East remains the only geopolitical zone with five states and stressed that equity demands the creation of a sixth state for the region as a priority under the ongoing constitutional amendment exercise.
The Senator disclosed that, as a principal member of the Joint Committee on Constitutional Amendment of the Senate and House of Representatives, he sponsored and championed the bill that revived the state creation debate at the federal level. He revealed that the committee reached a landmark agreement in Lagos, affirming the need to address the imbalance through the creation of a sixth state for the South-East.
Senator Nwoko further stated that he ensured the inclusion of a critical clause in the committee’s official report listing Delta State representing Anioma among the states eligible to contest for the proposed sixth South-East state. He described this inclusion as a pivotal development that firmly secures Anioma within the constitutional framework of the process.
While recounting the political negotiations and internal voting dynamics among South-East lawmakers, Senator Nwoko clarified that the constitutional authority for state creation rests solely with the National Assembly and not with state governors. He added that the leadership of the National Assembly, including the Senate President, has given firm assurances on the steady progress of the Anioma State proposal.
Reiterating his confidence, Senator Nwoko stated that Anioma State will emerge successfully, stressing that his position is backed by legislative records, formal agreements, and sustained advocacy. He reaffirmed that Asaba remains the natural and well-prepared choice for the state capital, noting that Anioma State cannot be conceived without Asaba playing a central role.
The Senator concluded by assuring the Igbanke community and the entire Anioma nation that the pursuit of justice, equity, and rightful recognition remains irreversible and will not be derailed by political interference.
