Get ready, Nigeria! The buzz is real, and the dream of a new state, Anioma, is getting closer than ever. Senator Ned Nwoko is spilling the beans, and it seems President Bola Tinubu himself, along with a whopping 97 senators, are throwing their weight behind this exciting move. This isn’t just talk; the campaign for Anioma State is heating up, and it looks like it has serious backing!
- Senator Ned Nwoko confirms massive support for Anioma State.
- President Tinubu and 97 senators are reportedly on board.
- The bill for Anioma State has been in the works for two years.
- Delta North’s nine local government areas form the core of the proposed state.
- The move aims for regional balance, especially for the South-East.
The Anioma State Movement Gains Serious Momentum
You won’t believe this! Senator Ned Nwoko, the man representing Delta North, dropped some major news over the weekend. He announced that the push to create a brand-new state, Anioma, is now in an advanced stage. And guess who’s backing it? None other than President Bola Tinubu and a massive bloc of 97 senators! This is huge news for the region and for Nigeria as a whole.
Nwoko shared this exciting update at the Izu Anioma Towns Union event in Abuja, where the first ever Anioma Cultural Festival, also known as Anioma Day, was launched. He explained that the idea for Anioma State, which he first proposed about two years ago, has gathered incredible steam. It’s all thanks to widespread support from lawmakers and a strong regional consensus. Imagine, a whole new state potentially carved out from the northern part of Delta State!
What Exactly is Anioma State?
So, what’s the plan? Anioma State would be formed from the nine local government areas currently in Delta North Senatorial District. This includes four councils in Aniocha, two in Oshimili, two in Ika, and three in Ndokwa. But wait, there’s more! Some neighbouring communities, like the folks in Igbanke, have also expressed their keen interest in joining this new state. It’s a growing dream!
Senator Nwoko declared with confidence, “Only one state will be created in Nigeria, and that one state will be Anioma.” He highlighted that the level of support seen for Anioma is simply unprecedented in Nigeria’s history of state creation. It’s a testament to the determination and hard work of the Anioma people.
Why Now? The Quest for Balance
This whole initiative is also about making things more balanced across the country. Nwoko pointed out that the Senate and House Committees on Constitutional Amendment, which have members from every state, have agreed that the South-East region should get a sixth state. This is crucial for achieving better regional equality.
And Anioma, according to Nwoko, is the most solid and viable option being considered by these committees. The initiative has already secured the endorsement of key figures like Senate President Godswill Akpabio. More importantly, President Tinubu has given his word, promising full support once all the constitutional hurdles are cleared. “We have done our homework. A lot of lobbying, contacts, and consultations are ongoing. Nothing is being left undone,” Nwoko assured.
The Road Ahead: Steps to Statehood
What happens next? It’s a well-structured plan. According to Nwoko, a significant meeting is scheduled for the coming weekend in Awka. Governors, respected traditional rulers, Anioma leaders, and representatives from the South-East will come together to officially endorse Anioma as the candidate for the new state. This collective decision will then be forwarded to the presidency, state assemblies, and governors for their formal approval.
The final step will be a nationwide referendum. This is where the Nigerian people will have their say. Senator Nwoko also mentioned that President Tinubu’s willingness to sign the bill into law would be a truly historic moment, underscoring the unity and drive of the Anioma people.
A New Era Dawns?
Nwoko concluded with a powerful statement: “I did not start this struggle, but I will finish it. Anioma state will be the beginning of a new era.” He also believes that the creation of Anioma State, coupled with the potential release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, could significantly contribute to peace and stability in the South-East region. It’s a vision for a more unified and peaceful Nigeria.
Related Developments:
- Previously, 85 senators had reportedly endorsed the creation of Anioma State before zonal public hearings.
- Senator Nwoko had also previously addressed issues like air traffic delays affecting a Senate delegation and accusations of drug abuse involving his wife, Regina Daniels.
The journey to statehood is complex, but with this level of high-profile backing, the Anioma State dream is definitely one to watch!
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