Eze Ugo King
I am compelled to respond to this press release by Delta North legislators and Local Government Chairmen rejecting the proposal for Anioma State to be situated in the South-East geopolitical zone. While i appreciate their engagement, I must firmly clarify why their position does not reflect the full breadth of Anioma sentiment nor the strategic realities at hand.It Is Immaterial Where Anioma State Is Created What Matters Is That It Is Created.The essence of Anioma’s long-standing struggle is the realization of a state of our own. The geographical zone in which that state is located does not diminish our identity, culture, language, or heritage..
Kwara State, predominantly a Yoruba speaking region, has always been situated in the North-Central zone; this did not erase their Yoruba identity or alter who they are. Geography does not define a people history, culture, and consciousness do.A Rare and Critical Opportunity Exists in the South-East We Must Not Trade It Away.At this moment, the only clear geopolitical space available for the creation of a new state is in the South-East, to correct its longstanding imbalance of having only five states. If Anioma is widely recognized as the most viable and nationally acceptable candidate for this correction, we should not allow parochial politics or personal interests to sabotage a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Missing this moment means potentially postponing Anioma State for decades.
I Question Whether the Legislators and Chairmen Are Truly Speaking for the Anioma People because the speed and tone of their rejection raise serious concerns about whose interests are being protected.
For years, being placed in the South-South has not translated into proportional development or political influence for Anioma people. Our experience as “Deltans” has demonstrated that administrative zoning has not guaranteed equity or fair treatment.
Therefore, insisting that Anioma “must remain” in the South-South when history has shown that this positioning has done little to advance our development does not reflect the broader aspirations of the populace.
Anioma remains Anioma whether administratively placed in the South-South or South-East. Our cultural essence is intact. Our people know who they are. No geopolitical label can change that.
What must guide us is strategy, opportunity, and what best advances our long term interest, not political sentiment or inherited assumptions.
We Must Pursue What Truly Benefits Anioma People.A state of our own wherever it is placed offers Anioma people control over their affairs, improved representation, and accelerated development. That is the core of the struggle initiated by our forebears.
Dismissing the South-East option outright is not only shortsighted; it is potentially harmful to our collective destiny.Anioma deserves a state. That goal must remain above political maneuvering.
It is immaterial where the state is located what matters is that Anioma finally achieves the autonomy, recognition, and development it has pursued for generations.
We will not allow the narrow stance of a few officials to close the door on a historic national opportunity.This is my own candid thought and am sure I speak the mind of the majority of the common Anioma people.
ANIOMA FIRST.ANIOMA ALWAYS
