ASABA/Nigeria: The long-standing quest for the creation of Anioma State received a significant boost on Friday, June 13, 2025, as the Ugo Anioma Movement passed a unanimous vote of confidence in the leadership of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko.
The group, a socio-political force in Delta North, inaugurated its operations in Asaba with a resounding endorsement of the lawmaker’s efforts towards actualizing the Anioma dream.
The event, which took place at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre in Asaba, drew traditional rulers, political leaders, and grassroots supporters from across Anioma communities. Moving the motion, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, President of the Ugo Anioma Movement, pledged total support for Senator Nwoko’s mission and promised to galvanize grassroots backing ahead of the crucial constitutional dialogue slated for July 4–5 in Uyo.
Senator Nwoko, addressing the gathering, expressed profound gratitude for the endorsement and reaffirmed his commitment to the Anioma cause. He announced the inauguration of a high-level Technical Committee, set for Sunday, June 15, at the historic Ogwa of the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge. The committee, he said, will consist of technocrats, civil society leaders, and political stakeholders chosen for their merit, dedication, and service to community interests.
“This is not the time to play politics. It’s a long walk to freedom, but we are almost there,” Nwoko declared. “The struggle for Anioma State began before I was born. In just two years, I have pursued this cause with passion because Anioma is not just a political project—it is a mission of identity and liberation.”
The Senator outlined the next steps in the constitutional process, including a public hearing in Uyo, the third reading of the Bill at the Senate, and a referendum to be conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). “INEC will give us four weeks to campaign. Those who want Anioma will say yes. Those who don’t will say no. But I can tell you, 99 percent of morally upright, forward-thinking Anioma people will vote yes,” he assured.
Nwoko also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has indicated his readiness to assist in securing the mandatory two-thirds endorsement from 24 state Houses of Assembly, a critical requirement for the constitutional amendment.
The inauguration event witnessed further endorsements from prominent Anioma figures. Rt. Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai, former member of the House of Representatives, described Nwoko as “the currency of the Anioma nation,” applauding his legislative achievements and inclusive leadership. “Prince Ned doesn’t care about party lines. As long as you’re from Delta North, he carries you along. He has revived the Anioma dream in a way that includes every community and every voice,” Ossai said.
His Royal Majesty Henry Kikachukwu, the Obi of Ubulu-Unor, echoed this sentiment, urging Anioma people to unite behind Nwoko. “The agitation for Anioma State began 74 years ago with Chief Dennis Osadebay. It will continue to linger if we don’t act now. Senator Ned symbolizes unity and progress. He deserves our full support,” the monarch stated.
As the constitutional process gathers momentum, the Ugo Anioma Movement and its growing coalition are positioning Senator Nwoko as the symbol of Anioma’s collective aspiration. With legislative progress, presidential goodwill, and surging grassroots support, the creation of Anioma State appears closer than ever to becoming a reality.
