By Austin Oyibode
ABUJA/Nigeria: Senator Ned Nwoko has addressed mounting concerns from constituents and stakeholders over the decision to host the South-South public hearing on the proposed creation of Anioma State in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, rather than in Asaba, the traditional heart of the Anioma people in Delta State.
In a statement issued Tuesday, the Senator representing Delta North acknowledged the dissatisfaction expressed by many over the choice of venue, describing the preference for Asaba as “completely valid,” given its cultural, historical, and symbolic importance to the Anioma cause.
“I, too, would have strongly preferred Asaba as the host city,” Senator Nwoko affirmed. “Not only for its symbolic significance but also to enable easier and fuller participation of our people in this critical constitutional process.”
He clarified, however, that the venue selection was not within his authority, as the decision was made by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution. According to Nwoko, the committee adopted a zonal framework for the hearings, selecting one state per geopolitical zone to host the constitutional review sessions. Uyo was chosen for the South-South, while Enugu, Lagos, Bauchi, Minna, and Kaduna were selected for the South-East, South-West, North-East, North-Central, and North-West respectively.
“This arrangement is aimed at streamlining logistics, ensuring adequate security, and facilitating regional representation — even though it may not always serve the local sensitivities of specific communities like ours,” Nwoko explained.
Despite the disappointment surrounding the choice of venue, Nwoko assured his constituents that his commitment to the Anioma cause remains firm. He described the demand for the creation of Anioma State as one rooted in justice, equity, and a distinct historical identity, and called for robust participation in the hearing regardless of its location.
“I will be present in Uyo to speak clearly and forcefully on behalf of Anioma,” he declared. “Our presence and unified voice will send a clear and compelling message to the nation.”
He further urged Anioma leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, professionals, and civil society organizations to mobilize and attend the hearing, stressing that active participation is critical to the success of the long-standing demand.
“The journey to the creation of Anioma State is not without its challenges. But with resolve, unity, and persistent engagement, we will achieve this long-deserved goal. Anioma has earned its rightful place as a federating unit in the Nigerian nation,” he said.
Senator Nwoko concluded by expressing confidence that the Anioma cause will ultimately triumph, calling for sustained unity and determination from all stakeholders.
The demand for Anioma State, envisioned to be carved out of Delta State, is part of broader constitutional efforts to restructure Nigeria’s federal arrangement and address long-standing calls for equitable representation and regional autonomy.
