₦airaland Forum

As your Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District at the 10th Senate (2023), I am deeply honored to serve my people and my nation. Here is a brief journey of my life, work, and impact:
• Born in December 1960 into the royal family of Idumuje-Ugboko, Anioma land, Delta State.
• Served in the House of Representatives in 1999 representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.
• Educated in the United Kingdom, earning a BA (Hons) in Law & History at University of Keele and an LLM in Maritime & Commercial Law at King’s College London. Called to the English Bar at Lincoln’s Inn and later served as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of England & Wales.
• Founder and Principal Partner of Ned Nwoko & Co Solicitors (London), recognized as the Best Black Lawyer of African Descent in England (1995).
• Spearheaded investigations into the London and Paris Club loans for Nigeria and 774 Local Government Councils, resulting in a landmark judgment of US$3.2 billion, a milestone in Nigeria’s fiscal accountability.
• Chairman, Senate Committee on Reparations & Repatriation and ad-hoc committee investigating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta (2023).
• Championed over 30 bills and more than 20 motions on youth entrepreneurship, environmental protection, diaspora voting, resource governance, constitutional reform, and community health.
• Owner and visionary of Mount Ned Heritage Resort, a world-class historical and cultural destination blending African royalty, nature, and innovation.
• Initiated the Antarctic Expedition (January 2020) as part of the Malaria Eradication Project, becoming the first black African to visit the South Pole, combining adventure with advocacy and global impact.
• Founder of Sports University, Idumuje-Ugboko: West Africa’s first sports-focused university integrating academics, athletics, and entrepreneurship.
• Founder of the Prince Ned Nwoko Foundation, funding major philanthropic initiatives:
• Reconstruction of the Idumuje-Ugboko–Onicha Ugbo road, bridging South-South and South-East regions.
• Scholarships to over 1,000 secondary and tertiary students (2018) and long-term sponsorships for indigent university students nationwide.
• Recipient of numerous international and national awards, including The Heroes of Democracy Award for Best Performing Senator (2025).
• Proponent of the Anioma State Creation Bill 481, a passionate defender of Anioma rights and development.
• Advocate of Igbo unity.
• Personal lifestyle: Vegetarian, Muslim, Non-drinker, Non-smoker.

I share this not to boast, but to remind every Nigerian that with vision, determination, and service, we can create lasting impact. I remain committed to the progress of Delta North, Anioma land, and our great nation, Nigeria.

Yesterday, as Chairman of the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft and Sabotage, I presented our interim report before the Senate.

Our investigation has so far uncovered massive revenue losses amounting to over $300 billion in unaccounted crude oil proceeds over the years. This represents one of the most troubling cases of economic sabotage our nation has ever faced.

We have made far-reaching recommendations to end this long-standing menace. These include:
• The strict enforcement of international crude oil measurement standards at all production and export points.
• Mandating the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to deploy modern, tamper-proof measuring technology or returning this function to the Department of Weights and Measures under the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.
• The deployment of advanced surveillance systems, including drones, to assist security agencies in combating oil theft.
• The creation of a Special Court for Crude Oil Theft to ensure swift prosecution of offenders and their collaborators.
• Full implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust Fund under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to empower local communities and reduce sabotage.
• Ceding abandoned oil wells to the NUPRC for allocation to modular refineries to support local production and job creation.

The committee also seeks an expanded mandate to track, trace, and recover stolen crude oil proceeds, both locally and internationally. Forensic reviews show over $22 billion, $81 billion, and $200 billion remain unaccounted for across different audit periods.

This is a national call to action. Nigeria cannot afford to continue losing trillions to corruption, inefficiency, and criminal networks. I remain committed, alongside my colleagues, to ensuring accountability, recovery, and reform within the oil and gas sector.

Sen. Ned Nwoko
Chairman, Sen Ad-hoc committee on oil Theft and Sabotage

A former Aide of Ned Nwoko, Mr. Ugaga wrote this on his Facebook page.
👇

The day Regina Daniel and Ned first met in Ugboko. Her mom brought her to apply for Ned Nwoko's scholarship for undergraduates. Okwuelum Sylvanus Originator refuse to give her form insisting that she is not an indigent student, then she claimed she was in Igbinedion university. The mother started shouting that her daughter is qualified for the scholarship. Ned Nwoko came out, stunned, he recognized reginal Daniel and ushered them in.

Then Regina Daniel and her family were still living in a rented flat (a old one story building at Akpu junction road, Asaba with peach and green colour)

The next thing was the news of Rolex watch and Mercedes car gift.

Then he bought her family a mansion behind sweet spirit hotel Okpanam road.

At Ned Nwoko's next Arrival, Regina Daniel and mom appear from Ned Nwoko's PG and straight to Ugboko.

On getting their, Ned Nwoko did Kola nut (Ishiegware) for Rita Daniel, mother to Reginal. The itshegware was $30k. Rita Daniel was out of control, showering Ned with praise and smiling cheaply. From her reaction, you do co.firm that she had not seen that kind of money in the past.

About a month Ned was back home, and I heard them pressuring g Ned to Intervene to Release Regina Daniel's slim brother was in detention on a matter relating to reckless lifestyle. I cant quite remember if it was bothering on possession of hard drugs or accident under influence.

But Ned Nwoko was visibly not having it, but them, he does not refuse Reginal any request.

In protest, he said, this is the last time I will be intervening for that boy on these kind of matters. He has to change and become a better person.

This same boy was once arrested in Lagos for beating up a DPO with his gang, it was Ned Nwoko that intervened.

The first visit of that boy to Ned Nwoko's house, Ned asked him to identify a tree in the compound amd he said fig tree. NED Nwoko gave him $2k dollars and he wanted to faint.

These are the people accusing Ned.

If you ever worked with Ned, you will know, he does not eat Meat or fish, he is a vegetarian, he does not take alcohol nor any carbonated drink. NED Nwoko drinks only two things. Water and Moroccan tea. He also does not encourage anyone to take alcohol but he will personally serve you that tea and water.

I know these things because I was once his close aide. I was his SA students affairs for years and we did a little bit more than that for him though.

I may not be on the same page with Sen Ne Nwoko today but there are some lies can not sell about him.

And let's I forget, Ned Nwoko lost 90% of his die hard followers and believers when Regina and her mom stepped in.

Oh I remember our dear Barr. Nwakaego...that beautiful lady would worship the ground Ned walked. She would never publicly embarras Ned Nwoko like this, she would realte with and appeal with his followers to be patient with Oga while she intervenes. But Regina came in and she was history

Shut up


What do you understand about international ethics, it is the presidency that will respond as he rightly stated, have you seen American Congress issuing statement about another nation
Those miscrants in the north can respond because they are non sate actors, not the office of the Senate President

Bar1941:
This Akpabio doesn’t deserve the seat of a Senate President. Imagine the level of timidity? Common, stop this third class citizen of the world’s mentality. You can speak and even disobey God that created Trump but you can’t speak to Trump. A whole No 3 most powerful person of the most populous black country in the world!

And who told you that

thisisit:
THERE WOULD BE SPIRITUAL CONSEQUENCES BECAUSE THE ROOT CAUSE OF THE PATTERN HAS NOT BEEN ADDRESSED ,,,,

50k US Dollars from where, acting Asaba hood or where, Ned who is a well known billionaire even before entering politics

Please next story

There is something you are not telling us
You said she attacked you and yet you were the one the police took into custody
Your story doesn't add up

All of this because of Niger Delta Oil

Why not go and aim the Gold in Zamfara

We the people of Niger Delta earnestly seeks the dissolution of the bloody entity call a country, Ronus and Abokis can go have their oil to brag with

Elvis2kay:
For decades, the narrative was straightforward:
-
- *Africa extracts the oil,*

- *the West refines it,*

- *and Africa repurchases it at triple the price, with a sense of gratitude. Imagine that!*

Now, along comes Dangote with a game-changing refinery capable of processing 650,000 barrels per day.

- *The first shockwave hit when U.S. fuel export numbers began to falter. West Africa, that loyal customer, suddenly declared, “No thanks, we’ll refine it ourselves.” It’s akin to trying to sell umbrellas in a desert; that’s how America feels in the diesel market right now.*

- *Next came the petrodollar tremor. If Nigeria starts trading refined products in naira, yuan, or even “AfriPay,” it’s a direct challenge to Uncle Sam’s global ATM. The dollar resents competition; it tends to catch inflation fever when others assert their independence.*

- *Then there’s the geopolitical shift. Africa’s largest refinery means fewer oil tankers sailing from Texas and more from Lagos to Lome, all under African control. This isn’t merely energy trade; it’s energy liberation. And freedom, it seems, is bad for business.*

- *The fourth concern: The U.S. isn’t pleased to see Nigeria forging partnerships with China and India for refinery deals. It’s like watching an ex partner build a mansion with your rival. This refinery is fueled by Chinese investment and Indian technology—two domains America once dominated.*

- *Finally, the most profound headache: the symbolism. Dangote didn’t just construct a refinery; he erected a mirror reflecting what Africa could have been if it had ceased outsourcing its future decades ago.*

Now, Washington can no longer dispatch “economic advisers” and “development loans” laden with conditions. Africa might soon assert, “Thanks, but we’ve got this.”

Thus, Dangote’s refinery doesn’t merely refine oil; it refines pride, power, and perspective. For the first time, the most significant gas leak in the room isn’t from Nigeria; it’s from America’s anxiety.

*May Nigeria thrive.*
*God bless Africa.*

*God bless the black race.*

Una go die one day and the cause of the death will be High BP caused my the unlimited hatred for Wike.

Wike no send una, live your life and leave another person matter

Kindly carry our your own UMSMART HUSTLING


Leave believers alone

Please someone should explain to me what is TENSE there please, because bloggers just want to make news.

Rubbish

Strictly a family affair

Why won't they, when the Bandits now get security votes😂 just like state Governors

This man is dam brilliant, this is unaggureablly one of the best article have read from this man
Infact the best I've read in recent times

For the records am from delta state but my intellectual mind sees beyond the parochial and sentimental attachments on this platform.
I have a cerebral cum objective mind

Good

*The Legislative Maestro at It Again*

By~ *Chulex James Enomate*


In his characteristic display of visionary leadership and purposeful representation, the distinguished Senator has once again reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the growth, progress and holistic development of Delta North. True to his reputation as a tireless advocate for the welfare of his constituents the Senator recently made headlines with the uplifting announcement of ₦2 billion each secured for various citadels of learning across the senatorial district namely, Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale; Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku and Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba.

This monumental educational intervention achieved through his unrelenting legislative drive, strategic collaboration with key federal agencies and steadfast pursuit of equity in resource allocation, stands as a shining testament to his dedication to youth empowerment and capacity building. It is yet another bold chapter in his legacy of attracting impactful projects and meaningful federal presence to Anioma land.
Beyond this latest accomplishment the Senator’s consistent efforts have ushered in a new dawn of infrastructural renewal, social progress and economic upliftment across the length and breadth of Delta North. From roads and healthcare facilities to empowerment programs and community development initiatives, his footprints are visible and transformative.

His brand of representation transcends politics, it is one anchored on empathy, foresight and an unshakable belief in the potential of his people. Through vision and action he has continually translated the aspirations of the Anioma people into tangible realities that speak louder than words.

Indeed, the distinguished Senator embodies the very essence of a Legislative Maestro orchestrating development with precision, passion, and purpose. His legacy of service continues to resonate across Delta State and beyond, inspiring confidence in the hearts of all who believe in a greater, stronger Anioma nation.

As legislative duties resume, we are certain that the Anioma voice will once again re-echo through the hallowed red chamber, strong, Purposeful and resolute as ever in pursuit of greater good for Delta North and Nigeria at large.

*SPORTS UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA*

~*By Chulex James Enomate*

The Sports University in Idumuje-Ugboko, built by our amiable Senator Prince Ned Nwoko is a groundbreaking institution that redefines education and development in Sub-Saharan Africa.

As the first of its kind in the entire region, it stands as a beacon of hope and progress, as well as a place where sports and academics merge seamlessly to produce well-rounded global citizens.

Within its serene and conducive environment, athletes, sports administrators and professionals in diverse disciplines are groomed, not only to excel in their fields, but also to embody excellence, discipline and innovation.

Senator Prince Ned Nwoko has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is measured by impact and legacy, and every year without fail, he awards scholarships to deserving Anioma indigenes and deserving individuals, doing much to ensure that no dream is cut short due to lack of opportunity. This noble act is more than charity, it is a bold investment in the future of Anioma, Delta State and by extension Nigeria, It reflects his unshakable belief that human capital is the greatest wealth of any society.

While many politicians spend their time consumed with the shenanigans of the election, Senator Ned Nwoko continues to devote his energy to building the next generation.

His vision transcends political cycles, it is a vision rooted in empowerment, in creating opportunities that align with modern global demands and in shaping a society where excellence becomes the norm.

Through his initiatives, he dreams of a nation whose citizens can confidently take their place on the world stage, standing tall and shoulder to shoulder with people from every corner of the globe.

The Sports University is not just a school, rather, it is a movement, a symbol of what is possible when leadership, vision and compassion converge for the greater good.

As a devoted apostle of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ned Nwoko is working assiduously to deliver the true dividends of democracy to the people and with the unwavering support of Mr President and the dynamic leadership of the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Honourable Sheriff Oborevwori, he continues to champion development, progress and inclusive governance that reflect the true spirit of the APC


*Ned Media Directorate*

Thank you America,

Nigeria is a crime scene

Nigeria @65: A Nation Rising Beyond Challenges

Sixty-five years after independence, Nigeria remains a work in progress. A story of resilience, promise, and determination. Ours is a nation that has survived turbulence, overcome setbacks, and yet continues to stand as Africa’s most powerful voice.

This year’s anniversary is more than a ritual commemoration. It is a call to renew our sense of duty to one another and to the generations ahead. The Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration deserves recognition for the strides already made: restoring macroeconomic stability, encouraging local production over reckless imports, investing in social interventions, and reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership on the continent. These are bold beginnings that must be sustained with consistency and urgency.

I particularly commend the words of Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 80th United Nations General Assembly. His call for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, for sovereign debt relief, for fair access to trade and financing, for equity in resource ownership, and for closing the digital divide so that “AI means Africa Included” captures the very essence of Nigeria’s place in the world. These are not abstract declarations, they are the lived realities that define our struggle as a nation.

In the Senate, my motions and bills have been guided by these same convictions:

•That justice must be pursued, whether through reparations for historical wrongs or reconciliation for national tragedies.

•That dignity must be guaranteed, whether through attaining veto power at the UN security council, the establishment of a National Social Security Agency or by ensuring healthcare and education reforms that work for Nigerians at home.

•That sovereignty must be protected, whether by stopping crude oil theft, ending gas flaring, or reclaiming control over our mineral wealth.

•That opportunity must be created, whether through youth entrepreneurship, diaspora voting, indigenous participation in mining, or the expansion of our digital economy.

Nigeria at 65 must choose to lead, not as a country of wasted potential, but as a nation that transforms its wealth into wellbeing for its people. We must secure our communities, empower our youth, modernize our infrastructure, and build institutions that outlive individuals. We must insist that no Nigerian is left behind. Not the farmer in the village, nor the entrepreneur in the city, or the vulnerable in need of support.

Our journey is far from finished. But if we keep faith with one another, strengthen collaboration between the executive and legislature, and place people at the center of our policies, then this decade can be the turning point when Nigeria moves from survival to greatness.

Happy Independence Day, Nigeria.
As resilience meets hope, with courage we arise stronger.

_Senator Ned Munir Nwoko

I need to start bolt business, I want to use unit to add up money to buy a car for Bolt (uber) business
So my family can start feeding well

Ned is working
The people are seeing it

God bless the peoples Senator

*SEN. NED NWOKO: DELIVERING WATER TO DELTA NORTH* .

This solar- powered facility pumps 20,000 liters of water regularly to residents of Umunede in Ika North East local government area. A vivid initiative of Senator Ned Nwoko on one of the basic necessities of life. Access to clean water-a cardinal UN goal is hard in Nigerian rural communities.The core mandate of a Senator is to make laws for the good governance of Nigeria. Senator Ned Nwoko is moving beyond his primary responsibility by providing vital social infrastructure for Delta North populace.Similar interventions are emerging across Anioma communities.

NED - THE PEOPLE FIRST!

Christ is the way the truth and the light

I pray the holy spirit capture your heart one day, only then will you come to terms with the above statement.
His death on the cross was the game changer for humanity

*VP SHETTIMA'S UNGA ADDRESS AND SENATOR NED NWOKO'S LEGISLATIVE AGENDA: A SHARED VISION FOR NIGERIA*


At the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Vice President Kashim Shettima spoke with clarity and urgency about Nigeria’s path forward. His address captured the need for a nation that confronts insecurity with resilience, drives economic growth through innovation, repositions itself in global decision-making, and ensures fairness and dignity for its citizens. VP Shettima’s address was not just a speech, it was a blueprint for a Nigeria that must act boldly, reform deeply, and demand its rightful place in the world.

In many ways, this vision finds resonance in the work of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko. His motions and bills reveal a lawmaker whose priorities are not only aligned with Nigeria’s immediate needs but also with the broader global reforms that Vice President Shettima called for. When the Vice President spoke of equity and justice in international relations, Senator Ned Nwoko’s motions on reparations for historical injustices, and the push for Africa’s permanent seat at the UN Security Council already stood as legislative calls for fairness in global governance.

On matters of national security, Senator Ned Nwoko has shown remarkable consistency. From his motions against crude oil theft, the surge of kidnappings, especially in the FCT, and the menace of herdsmen attacks, to his call for a genuine national dialogue with separatist groups, he has pressed for solutions that combine firmness with engagement. This dual approach mirrors the balance emphasized at the UNGA, the need to confront threats decisively while addressing their root causes. His proposed bills on mandatory youth military service, the creation of a national vigilante framework, and the regulation of private security companies reflect a forward looking strategy to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture from the grassroots up.

Economic self-reliance, another pillar of the Vice President’s speech, is echoed in Senator Ned Nwoko’s legislative push for a ban on non essential imports, anti-gas flaring laws, encouragement of indigenous participation in mining, and bills designed to strengthen fintech security and cashless transactions. His advocacy for youth entrepreneurship grants, modern ranching systems across all local governments, and social media platforms establishing physical offices in Nigeria speaks directly to job creation, innovation, and harnessing technology for national advancement.

Health, education, and social security also stand out as shared priorities. The Vice President’s emphasis on these areas mirrors Senator Ned Nwoko’s legislative drive. His motion to upgrade all federal medical centres to international standards and to require public officials to seek treatment locally, cuts to the heart of restoring confidence in Nigeria’s health system. His bill for a National Social Security Agency is no less ambitious, seeking to guarantee every vulnerable Nigerian a baseline of dignity and livelihood, not as charity but as a constitutional right. In education, he has pushed for bold expansions, advocating for specialized centres like the National Talent Rehabilitation and Integration Agency.

When you place Vice President Shettima’s vision at the UNGA side by side with Senator Ned Nwoko’s record in the National Assembly, a clear thread emerges: both are speaking to a Nigeria that refuses to shrink from its challenges or apologize for its ambitions. Senator Nwoko’s work is not the politics of the moment. It is the politics of preparation, security frameworks designed to evolve with the times, economic reforms meant to empower rather than entrap, institutions built to protect dignity, and a foreign policy that insists Africa must be heard and respected.

At a moment when the country is desperate for leaders who can turn lofty aspirations into concrete policy, Senator Ned Nwoko stands out. His motions and bills carry the weight of someone who sees the bigger picture but never loses sight of the ordinary citizen. It is the rare convergence of the local and the global, of immediate necessity and long term vision.

I hope he can speak Ukwuani

Seun please ask him for me

*ANIOMA: HISTORY, IDENTITY, EQUITY AND THE QUEST FOR STATEHOOD*


The Anioma people spread across nine Local Government Areas are geographically nestled in Delta North senatorial district. We share a long history and rich cultural ties with the Igbos. So, we are Igbos in every sense: by language, tradition, blood and identity.

Yet, arbitrary distortions of colonial boundaries, tragedy of civil war and manipulations of post-war politics and narratives have exposed Anioma to double burden: the pain of denial and the weight of marginalisation. Albeit, our spirit is unbroken.

Today, as the representative of Anioma in the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I affirm with courage the reawakening that: Anioma is Igbo; Anioma deserves justice; and Anioma state must be created. This is not a plea. Not a supplication, it is a demand inspired by truth, fairness and consciousness of true federalism.

ANIOMA BEFORE COLONIAL BOUNDARIES

Anioma has always been part of the great Igbo nation; and it is our cherished heritage and reality. Our communities in Oshimili, Aniocha, Ika and Ndokwa share ancestral trade and commerce, cultural, linguistic and geographic bonds with Igbo people across the Niger.

On trading characteristics, our market days are the same: Eke, Orie, Afo and Nkwo. Similarly, our cultural affinity is undeniably intertwined as our masquerades, from Mgba to Okanga, mirror those in Onitsha, Nsukka, Awka and Owerri.

Furthermore, linguistically, our names; Okonkwo, Nwafor, Nwanze, Odili and Nkemdilim among others are the same nomenclatures you find across the Igbo nation. Morphologically, words such as bia (come), nua (welcome) also show profound connections and linguistic leaning between Anioma dialects (i.e. the dialects of the people of Delta North Senatorial District) and Igbo language, proving beyond doubt that Anioma people are part of the greater Igbo ethnolinguistic family.

In addition, the people of Delta North have always been variously described as Midwest Igbo, Ika Igbo and Bendel Igbo. Even the government of Delta State, in its official ethnic classification, describes us as Igbo.

Today, we are often described as Delta Igbo, a description that reflects our location within Delta State but does not erase an incontrovertible truth that we are part of the Igbo group. So, our actuality is constant: Igbo is Igbo.

On geography, the map of Igbo land itself testifies to this reality. Asaba, Ibusa, Ogwashi-Uku, Illah, Agbor, Kwale, Aboh, Ndoni and other Anioma communities appear firmly within the boundaries of Igbo nation. Geography confirms what history and culture already prove: Anioma is Igbo land.

However, the British colonial administration, driven by convenience rather than culture, commerce and not consanguinity, placed Anioma in the Western Region while our tribesmen remained in the East. This artificial separation, erected by imperialism, became the seed of distortion, one that would later be watered by war and politics.

ANIOMA IN THE THROES OF WARS

The Ekwumeku Colonial Resistance War (1883–1914)

Anioma’s history of resilience did not begin in modern times. Between 1883 and 1914, our people waged the Ekwumeku Resistance War, a guerrilla uprising against British colonialism that lasted over 31 years.

The Ekwumeku revolt staged by Anioma chiefs and able-bodied young men was a peculiar war, marvelous in strategy and awe inspiring in scope, From Ibusa to Ogwashi-Uku, Issele-Uku to Ubulu-Uku, Anioma warriors resisted foreign domination with courage and unity. During this protracted conflict, many British soldiers and administrators were annihilated making Anioma one of the fiercest centres of anti-colonial resistance in West Africa.

The Ekwumeku War is evidence that Anioma has never surrendered its identity, no matter the force of oppression. That a group of people armed with local weapons could wage and sustain war for 31 long years, showed marked bravery and height of nobility. A historic movement that partly laid the pathway for decolonization and eventual independence of Nigeria.

Anioma in the Civil War and the Asaba Massacre

The Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970) harmed Anioma forever. Our land was caught in the middle, a frontier of brutal contest between Biafran forces and the federal army; and Anioma paid a heavy price.

The darkest memory remains the Asaba Massacre of October, 7, 1967. When federal troops entered Asaba, the people, dressed in white and chanting “One Nigeria”, came out seeking peace. Instead, they were rounded up. Men and boys were separated from women. In cold blood, they were executed. Hundreds were killed. With far-reaching consequences, it was a bizarre occurrence, the deadliest and most atrocious manifestation of the Nigerian civil war.

Historians like Elizabeth Bird and Fraser Ottanelli have documented how this was not just mass murder but an attempt at ethnic cleansing to punish Anioma for being Igbo. Families were wiped out and entire lineages destroyed. A premeditated slaughter of innocent Anioma civilians and the trauma continues to echo in the hearts of our people.

Beyond Asaba, Anioma communities also suffered untold horrors. In Isheagu, Kwale and several Ndokwa towns and villages, federal troops carried out brutal reprisals. Homes were burned, women were assaulted, young men were executed and communities were left in ruins.

Towns like Ibusa, Ogwashi-Uku, Issele-Uku, Ubulu-Uku and many others across Aniocha, Oshimili, Ika and Ndokwa bore the weight of this tragedy. Anioma bled not because of its geography, but because of its identity: Igbo.

The Question of Ika Igbos During the Civil War

Even during the war, the dilemma of Anioma was clearly acknowledged. A Biafran-era newspaper article, titled “What Happens To Ika Ibos?”, captured the precarious fate of Anioma’s future in the Mid-West. It asked a critical question: “Where do the Ika Ibos go now that the Biafra Republic has been proclaimed?”

The article warned that Anioma, like the Ewe in Togo and Ghana or the Luo in Kenya, risked being trapped in perpetual minority status, exploited and marginalised. It argued that Anioma’s natural destiny and protection lay in merger with the Republic of Biafra. This was a recognition, even in the heat of war, that Anioma’s destiny was tied to Igbo identity. This historical evidence underscores that Anioma’s struggle with identity is not an invention of modern politics, but a reality deeply rooted in history.

The Burden of Post-War Denial

When the war ended, Anioma entered a new struggle, the battle of survival within politics. To be accepted in the Mid-West and later Bendel State, many leaders muted or denied Anioma’s Igbo heritage. To say “We are not Igbo” became a shield against suspicion and exclusion.

However, this identity denial was occasioned by fear, a forced survival strategy; and narratives were created around this identity denial, which is not the truth; because in reality, the people of Delta North Senatorial District (Anioma) remained Igbo in their homes, marriages, dialects, festivals and spirit.

Meanwhile, those with poor knowledge of history are trying to make falsehood the dominant narrative, despite the overwhelming historical evidence from trade and commerce, culture, language, geography and civil war. So, the attempt to erase the Igbo identity of the people of Delta North (Anioma) is a silent form of ethnic cleansing; not just about humans, but of history and memory.

ANIOMA’S ENDURING TRUTH

No decree, no propaganda and no political calculation can change who we are. Anioma is Igbo. Anioma is Delta Igbo today, but more importantly, Anioma is part of the larger Igbo nation. As such, Anioma has always been Igbo. The evidence is in our bloodline, our tongue, our customs and our names. The proof is in our kinship ties, our history of migration and our shared culture. The truth has outlived war, overtaken propaganda and survived generations.

Today, our children must not inherit denial. They must inherit truth. They must grow up knowing they are Anioma Igbo, proud and unbroken.

EQUITY AND ANIOMA QUEST FOR STATEHOOD

The creation of Anioma State is not just a regional demand; it is both a historic correction and a political necessity. So, it is a matter of national justice. The South-East is the only zone with five states, while others have six or seven. This imbalance translates into fewer senators, fewer representatives, fewer local governments and less federal allocation. Anioma, as an Igbo homeland west of the Niger, is the natural candidate to correct this injustice. Therefore, the creation of Anioma state will fulfil Nigeria’s promise of equity and fairness.

Anioma State will not divide Nigeria; it will strengthen it. It will not isolate Anioma; it will integrate Delta North Senatorial District fully into the federation. It will reinforce its Igbo lineage and identity; and affirm it on Nigeria’s map.

Anioma State as a Development Imperative

Anioma is strategically placed. With Asaba as its capital, Anioma State will stand as a bridge between East and West, North and South.

Geographically, Anioma is centrally positioned, hosting Asaba, already the capital of Delta State and a gateway city with direct access to the Niger Bridge and the South-East. Also, economically, Anioma is rich in fertile land for agriculture, with immense potential in rice, cassava, palm produce and fisheries. Again, Anioma’s natural resources position it as one of Nigeria’s strongest energy bases as six out of the nine Local Government Areas in Anioma host huge oil and gas companies, particularly in Ndokwa, Ika and Oshimili zones. Ndokwa alone is home to some of Nigeria’s largest gas reserves, including the Okpai Power Plant, which supplies electricity to the national grid. Therefore, our economic contributions to Nigeria are tremendous and undeniable.

In addition, Anioma is a reservoir of human capital. Anioma people are highly educated, entrepreneurial and globally connected. From academia to business, politics and sports, media and entertainment, Anioma sons and daughters have distinguished themselves. While on culture & tourism, Anioma boasts of a rich cultural heritage, historic festivals and landmarks like the River Niger; making it a hub for cultural diplomacy and tourism.

All said, Anioma State creation will unlock these potentials, attract investment, create jobs and empower the next generation. This will not only honour the past but also secure the future.

Anioma’s Role in Nigeria’s Unity

Anioma has always been a bridge. We are Igbo by heritage but have lived as neighbours with Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, Edo and Yoruba. Anioma’s unique position makes our people natural peacemakers, connectors and unifiers. Therefore, the creation of Anioma State will strengthen inter-ethnic cooperation, not weaken it.

Also, creating Anioma State will honour our martyrs, heal our wounds, preserve our heritage and secure our children’s future. As such, Anioma State will be: a symbol of reconciliation; a final healing of the wounds of war; a recognition of Anioma’s sacrifices; and a step towards greater national balance. More profoundly it will consummate the vision and legacy of the legends who pioneered the movement for the creation of Anioma state beginning from 1954.

MY STAND

Anioma people are not to be erased or silenced; rather they are to be recognised, celebrated and established. Anioma people deserve a state; Anioma State is the future and the time is now.

As Senator representing Delta North, I state it clearly that: I support the creation of Anioma State; and it is not a privilege to be begged for, but a right long denied and justice long delayed.

Again, my quest for ANIOMA is not personal or political. The sustained marginalisation of Anioma people and struggle for self identity since the colonial times, rekindled my agitation for the creation of Anioma state.

It is a stoic desire for a new dawn of Anioma renaissance.

Please join me.

*Distinguished Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko*

Indeed Ned is a phenomenon

Odogwu keep soaring higher

By: Chulex James Enomate

The 5th Law in Robert Green's 48 Laws of Power reels reputation which categorically states that so much depends on it, as such it should be guarded with one's life. The importance of a man's reputation can not be over emphasized.

A man is measured, valued and appraised by his reputation, no wonder God Almighty the creator himself stated in the Book of Numbers 23:19 "Have I said it, will I not do it, have I spoken it, shall it not come to pass" he reiterated further when he said in another part of the scriptures that "My word will not come back to me void, it must accomplish that which it has been set to do" . Our creator is a God of repute as such we should be exemplary, a man without reputation is lost in the real sense of it.

Let me categorically state here and now, for failure to do so will not only be insurmountable but will also constitute a lacuna. Inherent to this, I make bold to say the man Senator Ned Nwoko is character and Integrity personified, a symbol of sound repute, a man I am proud to have great association with, a father to all whose modus operandi is centered on the Ubuntu Philosophy *( I am because You are )*

Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko is a man whose deeds and actions are there for all to see, from Ndokwa to Oshimili, from Aniocha to Ika testimonies abound of the lives he has transformed, the great destinies he has built, ambitions and visions he brought to fruition and he is very much instrumental to legacy projects like the premier sports university; the first of it's kind in sub-saharan Africa, the Malaria Vaccine project, infrastructural developments scattered accros Delta North that are too numerous to mention.
A contact with the man Senator Ned Nwoko breed testimonies because part of his hallmark is the daily challenge of how to impact on lives positively, an encounter with Senator Ned Nwoko is a life changing feel, a princely care laced with compassion.

The Obi of Umunede once said if only Delta North can have five persons like Senator Ned Nwoko Anioma will be a place of envy. *Prince Ned Nwoko is simply a phenomenon* . A man who never reneges on his words. Senator Prince Ned Nwoko is bold, trusted and highly dependable.


BEHOLD, I present the ANIOMA CRUSADER, a man full of passion to ameliorate and palliate the yearnings and aspiration of the populace.