By Austin Oyibode
Asaba, Nigeria: The Odu Oma Club of Nigeria has issued a rallying cry to stakeholders across Anioma land, urging them to prioritise unity and steadfastness amid ongoing challenges in the quest for Anioma State creation. In a significant move reflecting its historical commitment to Anioma affairs, the group commended recent advancements made during the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review hearings. However, it cautioned against divisive political maneuvers that could potentially derail this crucial initiative.
In a comprehensive statement jointly signed by President Patrick Ogbogu Okenyi and Secretary General Uche Emma Aboh, the Odu Oma Club emphasized that the creation of Anioma State represents not just a political aspiration but a profound fulfillment of historical identity, justice, and the right to self-determination for Igbo-speaking communities west of the River Niger.
The club lauded the transparency and inclusiveness observed during recent Senate Public Hearings in Ikot Ekpene and Enugu, where submissions by various Anioma advocacy groups were robustly presented. “The presentations were well-argued, transparent, and inclusive, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints,” noted the statement.
Expressing concern over what it termed “divisive narratives” circulating in the media, particularly the debate on Anioma’s geopolitical alignment, the club stressed that such discussions are peripheral to the core objective. “Geopolitical zones are not constitutional constructs and should not dictate governance decisions,” the statement clarified. “Our focus must remain steadfast on achieving Anioma State, transcending historical divisions.”
Highlighting the resilient history of the Anioma people, from their pivotal role in the Ekumeku resistance against British colonialism to their participation in the Biafran struggle, the club reaffirmed the enduring cultural, linguistic, and familial ties with Igbo brethren across the River Niger. “The arbitrary division of Western Igbos in 1947 underscores the need for Anioma State as a testament to our political resilience and visionary leadership,” the statement recalled, citing the landmark 1989 Anioma Declaration.
In a firm rebuttal against recent criticisms from local political factions questioning the authenticity of submitted documents at the Public Hearings, including Ndokwa Neku and a coalition of nine Local Government Chairmen, the club denounced such actions as detrimental and unpatriotic. “Personal and political interests must not undermine a cause that transcends individual agendas,” the statement asserted. “Anioma State predates contemporary politics and must rise above partisan disputes and ethnic tensions.”
As the Anioma State Creation Bill progresses through legislative stages towards the Third Reading and Plebiscite, the Odu Oma Club called upon all Anioma citizens to unite behind Senator Prince Ned Nwoko, the foremost advocate for statehood. “Anioma State promises to rectify historical disparities in the South-East region, ushering in new political and economic opportunities,” the group affirmed.
The statement concluded with a resounding call to action: “As we exercise our freedom of choice, let us choose unity, progress, and statehood—for the destiny of Anioma is in our hands.”
