Anioma People Unite: Senator Ned Nwoko Leads Charge for Creation of New State

 

The Anioma One Million Man March is just around the corner, scheduled to take place on September 28, 2024, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State's capital. This massive gathering aims to show support for Senator Ned Nwoko's legislative bill advocating for the creation of Anioma State.

Natives and associations of Anioma Land in Delta State are planning a solidarity march to support Senator Ned Nwoko's legislative bill advocating for the creation of Anioma State. This march is a show of solidarity for Senator Nwoko's efforts to make Anioma a separate state.

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It's worth noting that Senator Nwoko has been actively pushing for the creation of Anioma State, and this march is just one of the many displays of support from his constituents. In fact, Anioma youths recently paid him a solidarity visit at his country home to affirm their support for the state's creation .

Hon Osakwe counseled that, “The issue of geo-political zone placement of Anioma which is currently diverting attention ought not to be the main issue. The zones are mere groupings based on ethnic homogeneity or shared political history. The new state can comfortably remain under the Southsouth zone based on shared political experience or be grouped under the Southeast in line with ethnic affinity. Whatever way, the Ndokwas Ikas, Aniochas, Oshimilis and other groups in Anioma will be better for it.” Honorable Osakwe's statement highlights the importance of prioritizing the creation of Anioma State over debates about its zonal placement. According to Osakwe, the zones are mere groupings based on ethnic homogeneity or shared political history, and Anioma can comfortably fit into either the Southsouth or Southeast zone .

This sentiment is echoed by the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Pro.) Chike Edozien, who emphasizes the need for unity and a cohesive identity among the Anioma people. He notes that the struggle for a separate identity dates back to the 1950s and that the Anioma people have been referred to by various names, including Midwestern Ibos, Bendel Ibos, and Ibos West of the Niger .

The proposed creation of Anioma State has been a topic of discussion for decades, with supporters arguing that it would provide a stronger voice for the Anioma people in the national government and promote economic development in the region. Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, has been a vocal advocate for the state's creation, citing historical disparities and security concerns in the South-East geopolitical zone .

The proposed Anioma State would be carved out of Delta Stat, and its creation has been a topic of discussion among locals and politicians alike. While some people support the idea, others have expressed concerns about the feasibility and potential benefits of creating a new state.

Some of the arguments in favor of creating Anioma State include:

- Improved representation: Proponents argue that a separate state would give Anioma people a stronger voice in the national government.

- Economic development: A new state could attract more investments and infrastructure development to the region.

- Cultural identity: Anioma State would allow the people to preserve and promote their unique cultural heritage.

However, there are also concerns about:

- Economic viability: Some argue that creating a new state would put a strain on the existing resources and infrastructure.

- Administrative challenges: Others worry about the potential difficulties in setting up a new state government and bureaucracy.

Interestingly, the concept of a "million man march" has historical significance, dating back to the 1995 gathering in Washington, D.C., where hundreds of thousands of African American men came together to promote unity and self-empowerment .

The solidarity march is expected to demonstrate the widespread support for Senator Nwoko's bill and put pressure on the National Assembly to consider the proposal.

Let's keep an eye on this event, as it's sure to be a pivotal moment in the push for Anioma State's creation.