The proposal to create Anioma State from the existing Delta State has reignited Nigeria’s perennial debate on federal restructuring. Advocated by Senator Ned Nwoko of the Delta North Senatorial District, this initiative aims to address perceived marginalization and improve administrative efficiency. However, it faces significant opposition, even from within Delta North, raising questions about its motivations and potential consequences.
Senator Nwoko’s proposal relies on the constitutional provisions in Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution, requiring substantial legislative and popular support. Reports indicate that the proposal has not been adequately consulted with key stakeholders, including House of Representatives members, state assembly representatives, party leadership, and various ethnic unions within Delta North.
Support for Anioma State, especially among youth, appears driven by short-term political gains rather than a comprehensive understanding of its long-term implications. This support base largely consists of young people and some elderly political supporters. Cultural differences, such as the perceived misalignment between the Ukwuani people and the broader Igbo identity under the “Anioma” umbrella, further complicate the issue. Opposition from the Ndokwa/Ukwuani may stem not just from these cultural discrepancies but also from how the proposal was made and recent tensions between the Ndokwa/Ukwuani people and Senator Nwoko.
Senator Ned Nwoko of the Delta North Senatorial District
Professor Steve Agwo Okecha, an academic from the Ndokwa/Ukwuani region, in his article “Anioma State: Is It A Reality?” highlighted that the debate over Anioma State has sparked passionate discussions, particularly targeting the Ndokwa/Ukwuani lands. Many see this initiative as a strategic move to exploit the region’s rich oil and gas resources and manipulate its politically naive population.
The term “Anioma” according to him, itself is a recent invention, coined without input from Ukwuani representatives. Consequently, many reject this label, insisting on their distinct ethnic identity and historical independence from the Igbos. The origins of Anioma, as recounted by a professor involved in its creation, emphasize its arbitrary nature and lack of genuine ethnic significance.
Okecha buttressed, saying Senator Ifeanyi Okowa’s self-identification as Igbo is cited by some as evidence of Ukwuani’s Igbo identity, a notion vehemently rejected by the Ukwuani who see it as a personal opinion rather than a collective reality. Comparisons to other ethnic groups with linguistic similarities yet distinct identities, such as the Igarra and Egbira, reinforce the Ukwuani’s claim to a unique identity.
The Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, in 2021, made its stance clear through a detailed report. The report, presented by the Adhoc Committee on States Creation and Geopolitical Zones Arrangements, opposed the creation of Anioma State. The committee’s findings highlighted that the Ukwuani people do not identify with Anioma State, citing historical and cultural distinctions. Unlike the Aniocha, Oshimili, and Ika groups of the defunct Benin Province, the Ukwuani have deep-rooted ties with the Delta Province, sharing robust cultural and social affinities with the Urhobo, Isoko, Itshekiri, and Ijaw ethnicities.
Ossai Udom, in his piece “A Dangerous Push for Reconfiguration,” argued that the campaign for Anioma State has raised eyebrows and sparked significant controversy. He questioned the motivations and implications behind Senator Nwoko’s vigorous advocacy, suggesting that the push might be more about personal political gains than genuine regional development.
Critics, like Dr. Nwankwo T. Nwaezeigwe, accuse Senator Nwoko of concealing his Muslim faith to gain political favour in a predominantly Christian region. Nwaezeigwe alleges that Nwoko’s wealth and influence are tied to a broader plan to Islamise the area, collaborating with influential figures like Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and Ndudi Elumelu to establish a Fulani Muslim settlement under the guise of a rapid-response force.
He stated that, Nwoko’s political rise, marked by his defeat in the 2003 Delta State PDP Primaries and return to the Senate in 2023, is seen by some as a result of manipulation and undue influence.
Despite these allegations, Nwoko’s supporters highlight his achievements, portraying him as a dynamic and influential senator. Nobert Chiazor, a staunch defender, praises Nwoko’s legislative activity, noting his involvement in over 20 bills and numerous motions, though critics question the substantive impact of these efforts.
Furthermore, Nwoko’s involvement in controversial decisions, such as nominating his mother-in-law to represent Anioma in Ohaneze Ndigbo and appointing a relative as his Special Assistant on Media, has raised questions about nepotism and personal interests.
As the discourse unfolds, the fundamental question persists: would Anioma State genuinely serve the interests of its proposed constituents and advance equitable development? Balancing regional aspirations with national cohesion remains paramount, demanding transparent dialogue and inclusive decision-making processes to forge a more unified Nigeria.
While most opinions may not align with the proposal for the new state, it is crucial to look beyond the cultural affinity and consider the implications for the 2027 General Elections. The discourse surrounding this proposal is less about the interests of Delta North and more about the strategies to preserve political power in the upcoming elections. Many supporters and opponents are motivated by the desire to maintain or expand their political influence rather than the genuine concern for the region’s welfare.
Speculation is rife that opposition to the new state proposal, beyond prominent figures like Dr. Nwankwo T. Nwaezeigwe, Professor Steve Agwo Okecha, and Ossai Udom, is largely driven by political ambitions. Investigations indicate that several politicians eyeing a return to senatorial and other administrative positions are likely behind the resistance. This situation highlights that the debate over the state proposal is more about personal political gains than the genuine interests of the populace.
In terms of equality, the existing Delta State possesses the capability to meet the needs of its residents and visitors through judicious resource management. However, the state is currently grappling with significant issues such as widespread hunger and declining life expectancy. These critical challenges are being overshadowed by the contentious state creation debate, which diverts attention from more pressing concerns.
The focus should be on addressing fundamental needs like job creation, improving transportation infrastructure, and enhancing healthcare services, rather than engaging in political manoeuvres that serve narrow self-interests. The misdirection of priorities underscores a disconnect between the political class and the urgent needs of the people, suggesting that personal ambitions are being placed above collective welfare. This is what the Delta North Senator and others elected and appointed should tackle.
They should discuss and attract investors to the area. For example, one of the reasons for opposition from some Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituents is how the Senator had carried out his constituency oversight, without regard to the people and their leadership. He is being accused of double standards. And this again has created fear amongst the people for the proposed Bill. To them, this had been the trademark, after the plea to be voted with a lot of political promises, the people are always abandoned.
Senator Ned Nwoko, central to this controversy, clarified, “There’s been confusion. My aim is an Anioma state, a desire shared by many. The means matter. Whether it’s labeled South-South, South-East, or Midwest is inconsequential; it’s merely political geography. Our identity and unity remain unchanged.” Nwoko emphasized this when discussing his motivations, notably addressing concerns about the new state’s alignment with the South-East region with this medium.
In All, Delta North needs industries that will provide jobs for the people. The area is decaying, and very fast. And that is what this is what we are advocating. Enough of the distraction.
