The senator representing Delta north, Ned Nwoko, says the movement for the creation of Anioma state has gathered strong momentum, with both constitutional amendment committees and President Bola Tinubu backing the effort.
Nwoko made the remarks at the Izu Anioma Towns Union gathering in Abuja over the weekend, where the maiden Anioma cultural festival was officially launched.
He revealed that 97 senators had previously endorsed a document advocating for the creation of Anioma state, calling the level of support unprecedented.
The senator explained that the bill he sponsored aims to form Anioma state from the nine local government areas in Delta north, made up of four in Aniocha, Oshimili, two in Ika, and three in Ndokwa.
He added that neighbouring communities, including Igbanke, have expressed interest in being part of the proposed state.
“Only one state will be created in Nigeria, and that one state will be Anioma,” he said.
According to Nwoko, the constitutional amendment committees of both the senate and the house of representatives, with membership drawn from all states, have agreed that the south-east should be allocated a sixth state to ensure regional equity.
He further stated that the initiative enjoys the support of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and that Tinubu is willing to approve the creation once all constitutional requirements have been met.
“We have done our homework. A lot of lobbying, contacts, and consultations are ongoing. Nothing is being left undone,” he said.
Nwoko shared that leaders from the south-east, traditional rulers, and Anioma representatives are scheduled to meet in Awka, Anambra state, next weekend to formally adopt Anioma as the zone’s candidate for the new state.
He outlined the remaining steps, noting they include submitting full documentation to the presidency, getting concurrence from state assemblies and governors, and conducting a national referendum.
Once all procedures are completed, he said Tinubu would sign the state-creation document in what he described as a “momentous” ceremony.
Nwoko called for unity among Anioma people, saying the goal is within reach.
“I did not start this struggle, but I will finish it. Anioma state will be the beginning of a new era,” he said.
He had earlier stated on October 26 that the creation of Anioma state, along with the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), would significantly help ease tensions in the south-east.