Agboje Chuks
The Youth Representative Technical Committee of the Anioma State Creation met recently with the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Delta State Chapter, as part of a strategic familiarization and mobilization drive.
Leading the delegation was the committee’s Youth Representative, Ambassador Ushi Israel, who met with the Delta State Ohanaeze Ndigbo President, Chief Igumbo Benjamin (the Ukigbali of Oki), and his team.
Amb. Ushi Israel emphasized that the agitation for the creation of Anioma State was a long-standing generational aspiration of the people.
He noted that the time for creation was ripe, citing significant support from the National Assembly, with approximately 97 Senators and 24 States reportedly backing the move.
He clarified that the push for Anioma State was not tied to any specific political zone but was focused on realizing the dream of their forbears.
Amb. Israel detailed the committee’s mandate, stating, “The need for the familiarization visits to Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide and all the Ohanaeze Ndigbo of the 36 States of the federation. This is why my team and I came to see the Ohanaeze Ndigbo President, Delta State Chapter because we needed to start from home.”
He hinted that the visit was crucial ahead of the Referendum slated to hold soon across the five South-East States and all Anioma Local Government Areas.
In his response, Ohanaeze Ndigbo President, Chief Igumbo Benjamin, thanked Amb. Israel and his team for the visit.
He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to the creation of Anioma State, calling it “a right move in the right direction.”
Chief Igumbo specifically appreciated Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko for illuminating the effort to create Anioma State.
He stressed that the state’s creation would benefit all Anioma sons and daughters and highlighted that zoning it to the South East is an effort to unite the people of Anioma with their Igbo Brothers.
Also speaking was Chief Nwokoro, the Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Delta State Chapter, further solidified this position.
He emphasized the interconnectedness of all ethnic groups and cultures, providing historical insights into the origins of tribes like Agbor and Asaba, and their ties to the South-East.
He urged the people of Anioma to embrace the creation, stating it would strengthen the bond with their Igbo brothers.
Chief Nwokoro also challenged those who deny the cultural connectivity by pointing to the use of titles like “Obi” or “Eze” by Anioma traditional rulers, and the name “Anioma” itself, arguing that these were Igbo-sounding names, not Isekiri, Ijaw, or Urhobo.
He concluded by stressing the importance of the Anioma people, claiming they are the backbone of Delta but have historically been marginalized.
