₦airaland Forum

ANIOMA STATE: A MISGUIDED PROPOSAL WITH DANGEROUS IMPLICATIONS.

By Charles Chukwuedo Snr, Esq.

The ongoing advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko, the distinguished Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, is an initiative that I cannot, in good conscience, support, particularly if the ultimate objective is to align the proposed state with the South East geopolitical zone. While I am an ardent believer in fairness and equity in Nigeria’s political configuration, and I strongly support the South East having an additional state to bring it on par with other geopolitical zones, the idea that Anioma should be carved into the South East is deeply troubling and fundamentally flawed.

At the heart of my concern is not just the issue of state creation itself, although I remain sceptical that the mere multiplication of states is a panacea for development, but the broader implications of where and how such a state is positioned. Since its inception, Delta State has received substantial allocations and has access to vast resources that, if properly harnessed, should have propelled the state to an enviable level of development. The notion that the mere creation of another state will magically solve governance inefficiencies is misguided. The real issue has always been prudent leadership, strategic economic planning, and effective management of resources, not an arbitrary redrawing of boundaries.

Even if we were to momentarily assume, without conceding, that the creation of new states could provide developmental benefits, there remains a far more pressing question: Why would anyone push for Anioma to be absorbed into a geopolitical zone currently grappling with severe security challenges? This, to me, is the most perplexing and distressing aspect of the entire conversation.

The South East, our historical and cultural brethren, is currently facing an alarming level of insecurity that has disrupted economic activities, displaced families, and left communities in distress. It is no secret that many of our Igbo brothers and sisters are relocating to Anioma land precisely because they seek safety and stability, circumstances that have sadly become elusive in certain parts of the South East. You cannot blame them; security is paramount in any jurisdiction. Given this reality, what rational justification exists for pushing a newly created state into a geopolitical region currently mired in such turmoil?

It is also worth pointing out that the rightful approach to addressing the South East’s long-standing demand for an additional state is for its own political leaders and stakeholders to champion the cause. The South East geopolitical zone has every right to lobby for the creation of a sixth state, this is a legitimate and justifiable demand that should be pursued. However, what is baffling is the reverse scenario where individuals outside the South East, including some from Delta North, are at the forefront of this push. If the South East needs an additional state, let its own political leaders and stakeholders take up that cause directly and make a compelling case, rather than seeking to rope Anioma into a geopolitical reclassification that may not serve its best interests.

Beyond the political and security concerns, another crucial dimension to this issue is the deep historical and cultural ties that Anioma people share with their neighbours in Delta State. Anioma is not an isolated ethnic entity; we have a long-standing relationship with our Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, and other Delta State brothers and sisters. We all coexisted under the old Bendel State before the creation of Delta State, and over the decades, we have built strong social, economic, and political bonds. This proposed move threatens to sever these ties permanently.

Is this political divorce truly worth it? What do we stand to gain by turning our backs on those with whom we have shared history, governance, and mutual cooperation? Would Anioma people be better off abandoning the South-South geopolitical bloc, where we have a strategic presence, to align with a South East region facing uncertainty? These are fundamental questions that must be answered with careful thought, not sentiment.

I have expressed my reservations about this issue before, and I will not stop speaking against it. History will bear witness to the fact that some of us did not remain silent while this agenda was being aggressively promoted. We will continue to do what we can to stop this move because we see the dangers ahead, and it would be a dereliction of duty to ignore them.

What I find particularly striking is the conspicuous silence of many voices that ought to engage in this discourse. While I acknowledge that not everyone may share my position, I also recognise that some may be hesitant to speak, not necessarily because they support the move, but perhaps out of deference to the personality of the individual driving this agenda. Senator Ned Nwoko, without question, is a man of considerable influence, and his commitment to projects he believes in is undeniable. I respect him, and I consider him a friend. However, friendship must never stand in the way of truth, nor should personal affiliations deter people from taking a stand on matters of critical importance.

My position is not driven by personal animosity, political rivalry, or any ulterior motive. Rather, it stems from a sincere concern for the well-being and future of Anioma people. This is not just a debate about state creation; it is about security, strategic alignment, and the long-term interests of our people. Political decisions of this magnitude cannot be based on sentiment or historical ties alone, they must be guided by logic, pragmatism, and a clear understanding of the consequences.

Anioma people must ask themselves some fundamental questions. Are we truly prepared to trade our relative stability for an uncertain future? Have we thoroughly examined the long-term political and economic ramifications of being reclassified into a different geopolitical bloc? Do we understand what this means in terms of representation, allocation of resources, and administrative control? What assurances do we have that this shift will serve our best interests in the long run? These are serious questions that cannot be ignored.

Furthermore, we must not lose sight of the fact that geopolitical alignments carry significant implications beyond mere identity. They determine political representation, federal allocations, and access to developmental projects. Currently, Anioma enjoys a unique advantage as part of Delta State within the South-South geopolitical zone, a region with substantial economic and political influence in national affairs. By shifting to the South East, Anioma would be entering an entirely different political calculus, one that may not necessarily work in its favour.

I want to be absolutely clear: I do not support the ongoing lobbying for Anioma State if it means zoning the state to the South East geopolitical region. I believe in the unity of Anioma people, I believe in their right to demand development, but I do not believe that this is the right approach. There are better ways to achieve economic growth, infrastructural development, and political relevance without making a move that, in my view, exposes us to unnecessary risks.

Those of us who see these dangers have a duty to speak out, to resist any attempt to railroad Anioma into a geopolitical classification that does not serve its best interests, and to ensure that our future is determined by careful, informed decision-making.

History will judge us all. Let us ensure that we are on the right side of it.

By Charles Chukwuedo Snr, Esq. ©.
9/3/2025
Charleschukwuedo@gmail.com

Why do they even need a 6th state if not for covetousness?

REALITY IS, ANIOMA PEOPLE ARE SE IGBO PEOPLE.


ONE SECTION OF THEM ARE ALREADY IN ANAMBRA AND PROUD TO BE NDI-ANAMBRA AND NDI-IGBO. E.G YES SAME ANIOMA PEOPLE ACROSS THE RIVER NIGER.



Y HOLD DEM WITH IJAW AND URHOBO WEN THEY HAVE THEIR ANIOMA PEOPLE OVER IN ANAMBRA TO JOIN? DOES THAT MAKE SENSE?



WEN U DO THINGS THAT DONT MAKE SENSE, HOW DO U GET A VIABALE COUNTRY THAT IS SUCCESSFUL?



SO, ANYBODY THAT CHOOSES TO BE DELUSIONAL IS ONLY FOOLING THEMSELVES ABOUT THE REALITY ON GROUND.



THE SOLE SENATOR REPRESENTING ANIOMA HAVE RIGHTFULLY CALLED FOR HIS PEOPLE TO BE REMOVED FROM SS AND REUNITED WITH THEIR KITH AND KIN IN SE.



BLACKS CAN CHOOSE TO REMAIN BACKWARD BY ALWAYS DOING THE WRONG THING OR U CAN FOR A CHANGE TAKE A STEP FOWARD BY DOING THE RIGHT.

THE SE NEED 6TH STATE FOR A BALANCE IN THE FEDAERATION, CARVE ANIOMA AND SETTLE THE 6TH STATE DEBATE AND CARRY ON, OTHER REGIONS DONT NEED TO BE CHILDISH BY SAYING THEY ARE CRAVING NEW STATE FROM THEIR REGION.


SE DID NOT CARVE NEW STATE FROM SE, SO NO REGION SHOULD GET A NEW STATE EXCEPT THE SE THAT HAVE BEEN SHORT CHANGED SINCE 1999.



SS ALSO DID NOT CARVE A STATE FOR THEMSELES.



WEN WE DO THE RIGHT THING, THEIR IS NEVER ANY PROBLEM OR COMPLICATONS.


IT IS ALWAYS VERY SIMPLE AND STRAIGHTFORWARD.



PROBLEM ONLY ARISE WEN U START PLAYING GOD AND DOING THE WRONG THING LIKE SATAN.



ANIOMA STATE SHOULD BE THE ONLY SOLE STATE CREATED IN NIGERIA AND IT IS THE OLDEST AGITATION FOR STATE CREATION IN NIGERIA.

If a state is created today and added to the south east, two states will be created in the west and three or four states in the north.

Sir, there are many right thinking people like you especially among the ndokwa people of anioma. Ndokwa people resources will be used by the ika, Onitsha and Aniocha people to the detriment of the Ndokwa. Speaking similar languages doesn't always guarantee that everyone will be fairly treated. Anioma has various dialects and the weakest politically are the ndokwa people who have been historically neglected even by their ika brother okowa when he was governor.

Igbos oppressed ikwere when they were together in eastern region that's why ikweres hate to be identified as Igbo. Similar thing may play out in the new anioma state because Aniocha and Onitsha people see themselves as one and don't regard the Ndokwa as much so it's going to be a political miscalculation for the ndokwa since Nigeria politicians focus on the dividing factors during campaign irrespective of tribe

Obiedun:
If a state is created today and added to the south east, two states will be created in the west and three or four states in the north.

THAT IS THE POINT, AS LONG AS NO STATE WAS CREATED FROM THE SE FOR THE SE, NO STATE SHOULD BE CREATED ANYWHERE ELSE.


THE BLACK MAN MUST LEARN TO BE MATURE AND DO THE RIGHT THING AND PROPER.


EVEN IF YOU ARE SATAN, AND AGITATION FOR ONE STATE HAVE GONE ON FOR OVER 70 YEARS, IS IT NOT LONG ENOUGH FOR YOU TO GRANT IT.


THESE WHITE WE TALK ABOUT GRANTED YOU INDEPENDECE FOR YOU TO BECOME SATAN?

Anioma is an Igbo word.

You don't want to be identified as Igboland, why not use a different name that doesn't sound Igbo?

F000l stop!

MasterJayJay:
Anioma is an Igbo word.

You don't want to be identified as Igboland, why not use a different name that doesn't sound Igbo?

F000l stop!

WARRI IS SUPPOSE TO BE A STATE CAPITAL, BUT BECAUSE THE BLACK MAN WANT TO BECOME SATAN, THEY CARRY PEOPLE THAT HAVE NO BUSINESS BEING IN A STATE WITH THEM AND JOIN THEM.

LIMITING THEIR DEVELOPMENT.


WHY SHOULD ANIOMA PEOPLE THAT ARE ON BOTH SIDE OF THE RIVER NIGER, BE FORCED INTO A STATE WITH URHOBO AND IJAW, ABANDONING THEIR KITH AND KIN, WITH WHOM THEY WERE TOGETHER EVEN BEFORE NIGERIA WAS CREATED?



WHY?


IS THIS SOMETHING THAT SHOULD TAKE THE BLACK MAN OVER 70 YEARS OF AGITATION TO CORRECT?

Some people like to talk absolute nonsense. The guy keeps saying that Anioma State will be zoned to the South East

I don't think he knows that the constitution of Nigeria does not recognise anything called South South or South East!

How then can you be zoned to what does not exist in the eyes of the law?

South South and South East are mere geographical expressions. In reality, they don't exist in the constitution, therefore mean nothing

gidgiddy:
Some people like to talk absolute nonsense. The guy keeps saying that Anioma State will be zoned to the South East

I don't think he knows that the constitution of Nigeria does not recognise anything called South South or South East!

How then can you be zoned to what does not exist in the eyes of the law?

South South and South East are mere geographical expressions. In reality, they don't exist in the constitution, therefore mean nothing

ANIOMA STATE CREATED IS AUTOMATICALLY SE ZONE.

IF U WENT TO SCHOOL AND READ GEOGRAPHY, U WOULD KNOW THEIR LOCATION IS SE ON THE BANK OF THE RIVER NIGER.


THEY ARE NOT ON THE COAST.

THE PROBLEM IS EVERYBODY WANT TO TALK BUT NOT EVERYBODY WENT TO SCHOOL OR IS EDUCATED.


HENCE , U WILL FIND EDUCATED PEOPLE HAVING TO REMIND THE ILLITERATE OF THE FACTS OF LIFE THAT ARE NOT UP FOR DEBATE.


YET THE ILLITERATE WANT TO DEBATE IT, BECAUSE HE KNOWS NOTHING.

A state should be created in the South South to compensate them for the heavy revenue accruals they surrender to the Nigerian federal government every month end and to bring them up to par with the North East who have SEVEN states, while only contributing fulani herdsmen and idiotic presidents to the union since 1966. There is mo reasons why the North East should have more states than the south south, or any other region.

A fresh state should also be created in the current South East to make it up to 6 states in total.., which is basically the national average. That new SE state can come from any or a combination of the present 5 SE states. That will help to administratively checkmate the lop-sided realities associated with federal appointments, positions and allocations. The south-east has been shortchanged on these for decades. So we should be looking at 2 states. One in the south south and another in the south-east..

AS A MATTER OF FACT, ANIOMA IS VERY FAR FROM THE COAST.


IT TAKES 4 HOURS TO GO FROM ANIOMA TO THE COAST OF DELTA STATE.



GO AND READ YOUR BOOK, YOUR EMOTIONS ARE NOT FACT.


EMOTIONS ARE UNSTABLE AND WILL CHANGE BUT FACTS DONT CHANGE.

Stolen:
ANIOMA STATED CREATED IS AUTOMATICALLY SE ZONE.

IF U WENT TO SCHOOL AND READ GEOGRAPHY, U WOULD KNOW THEIR LOCATION IS SE ON THE BANKS OF THE RIVER NIGER.


THEY ARE NOT ON THE COAST.

The constitution of Nigeria does not recognise "zones", therefore they don't exist. South East and South South are mere geographical expressions

gidgiddy:
The constitution of Nigeria does not recognise "zones", therefore they don't exist. South East and South South are mere geographical expressions

WHETHER IT RECOGNISE OR NO RECOGNISE IS YOUR OWN BUSINESS.

ANIOMA STATE MUST BE CREATED AS THE SOLE STATE.


THERE AFTER, WE SIT AND WATCH WHETHER THIS NIGERIA WILL BE WORKABLE OR NOT BECAUSE WE CANNOT BE ENGAGING IN INSANITY CHALLENGE ON TRIVIAL MATTERS.



U WILL RUN AND COME OUT WITH ERECTION AS SOON AS U HEAR IGBO.

GO AND GET THAT CHECKED BECAUSE IT CANNOT BE NORMAL BEFORE IT COST U YOUR LIFE.

Why can Asaba and Onitsha not be in the same state?

aswani:
Why can Asaba and Onitsha not be in the same state?

GO AND FACE YOUR SW REGION.

U ARE NOT AN IGBO MAN.

HOW MANY TIMES DO I TELL U THAT ON THIS SITE.

UNLESS, U ARE A BASTARD. OMOALE!

Stolen:
GO AND FACE YOUR SW REGION.

U ARE NOT AN IGBO MAN.

HOW MANY TIMES DO I TELL U THAT ON THIS SITE.

UNLESS, U ARE A BASTARD.

Oga, this is a forum for Nigerians to discuss things related to Nigeria.

Feel free to go and start you own forum, I promise I won't go near it.

You are also welcome to ignore my posts, I won't feel offended either.

NIGERIA HAS POTENTIAL.

THAT POTENTIAL CAN ONLY BE RECOGNISE/REALISE/ACTUALISE WITH STRICT APPLICAION OF PSYCHIATRIC ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC OFFICE HOLDERS.


WEN U ALLOW SOMEBODY WITH MENTAL ISSUE INTO THE SYSTEM, THEY WILL CORRUPT IT BECAUSE THEY WANT TO MAKE IT ABOUT THEM.


THE SE IS NOT MAKING THIS ABOUT SE OTHERWISE THE STATE WILL BE CREATED OUT OF THE SE AND THEY COLLECT EXTRA ALLOCATION.

RATHER BECAUSE IT IS ABOUT EQUITY AND FAIRNESS, THEY ARE WILLING TO ACCEPT A STATE CRAETED OUT OF SS, TO FREE UP REVENUE FOR ANOTHER TRIBE(URHOBO/IJAW) TO DEVELOP THEIR WARRI DELTA STATE, RATHER THAN US GETTING EXTRA.

I BELIEVE IGBO PEOPLE ARE THE MOST CIVILISED PEOPLE IN NIGERIA.

THEY CHOOSE RIGHT OVER PROFIT OR GAINS, YET A YORUBA WILL ABANDONED THE ENTIRE SW TO COME AND INSTITUTE INSANITY IN A SPACE WHERE HE HAS NO BUSINESS OR VALUE.


U DONT EVEN INVEST OR LIVE THERE.

I been an anioma man from onicha ugbo/ Isselukwu I will be very happy if the state is created and zoned to the south east, to me my tribe comes first so I will be happy to unite with my brothers across the Niger. And 4 the insecurity in the south east that is a small thing to resolve the igbos happen been through worst and bounced back gracefully but for the main time the unification of all Igbo people is a goal to creating the new state is a good step forward op nothing will stop it

Stolen:
NIGERIA HAS POTENTIAL.

THAT POTENTIAL CAN ONLY BE RECOGNISE/REALISE/ACTUALISE WITH STRICT APPLICAION OF PSYCHIATRIC ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC OFFICE HOLDERS.


WEN U ALLOW SOMEBODY WITH MENTAL ISSUE INTO THE SYSTEM, THEY WILL CORRUPT IT BECAUSE THEY WANT TO MAKE IT ABOUT THEM.


THE SE IS NOT MAKING THIS ABOUT SE OTHERWISE THE STATE WILL BE CREATED OUT OF THE SE AND THEY COLLECT EXTRA ALLOCATION.

RATHER BECAUSE IT IS ABOUT EQUITY AND FAIRNESS, THEY ARE WILLING TO ACCEPT A STATE CRAETED OUT OF SS, TO FREE UP REVENUE FOR ANOTHER TRIBE(URHOBO/IJAW) TO DEVELOP THEIR WARRI DELTA STATE, RATHER THAN US GETTING EXTRA.

I BELIEVE IGBO PEOPLE ARE THE MOST CIVILISED PEOPLE IN NIGERIA.

THEY CHOOSE RIGHT OVER PROFIT OR GAINS, YET A YORUBA WILL ABANDONED THE ENTIRE SW TO COME AND INSTITUTE INSANITY IN A SPACE WHERE HE HAS NO BUSINESS OR VALUE.


U DONT EVEN INVEST OR LIVE THERE.

and again the igbos has always stood by there brothers, they stood and fought for us to have our Midwest region, they stood for us even when they said Kaduna nzeogwu is Igbo (4rm okpanam delta state) they stood 4 us, they stood for good luck Jonathan even when his brothers(ijaw) did not believe in him anymore the igbos stood 4 him the igbos have always seen the other southern people as there brothers we the igbos must unite at all cost

Why would anyone push for Anioma to be absorbed into a geopolitical zone currently grappling with severe security challenges? This, to me, is the most perplexing and distressing aspect of the entire conversation.

This is weird question. Changing the region doesn't change the rate. If the same set of policies and people are there then nothing changes outside. The statistics changes.

gidgiddy:
Some people like to talk absolute nonsense. The guy keeps saying that Anioma State will be zoned to the South East

I don't think he knows that the constitution of Nigeria does not recognise anything called South South or South East!

How then can you be zoned to what does not exist in the eyes of the law?

South South and South East are mere geographical expressions. In reality, they don't exist in the constitution, therefore mean nothing

You're right.

So, the idea that it's been a disservice to SE being denied is moot.

Peppermaster:
ANIOMA STATE: A MISGUIDED PROPOSAL WITH DANGEROUS IMPLICATIONS.

By Charles Chukwuedo Snr, Esq.

The ongoing advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko, the distinguished Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, is an initiative that I cannot, in good conscience, support, particularly if the ultimate objective is to align the proposed state with the South East geopolitical zone. While I am an ardent believer in fairness and equity in Nigeria’s political configuration, and I strongly support the South East having an additional state to bring it on par with other geopolitical zones, the idea that Anioma should be carved into the South East is deeply troubling and fundamentally flawed.

At the heart of my concern is not just the issue of state creation itself, although I remain sceptical that the mere multiplication of states is a panacea for development, but the broader implications of where and how such a state is positioned. Since its inception, Delta State has received substantial allocations and has access to vast resources that, if properly harnessed, should have propelled the state to an enviable level of development. The notion that the mere creation of another state will magically solve governance inefficiencies is misguided. The real issue has always been prudent leadership, strategic economic planning, and effective management of resources, not an arbitrary redrawing of boundaries.

Even if we were to momentarily assume, without conceding, that the creation of new states could provide developmental benefits, there remains a far more pressing question: Why would anyone push for Anioma to be absorbed into a geopolitical zone currently grappling with severe security challenges? This, to me, is the most perplexing and distressing aspect of the entire conversation.

The South East, our historical and cultural brethren, is currently facing an alarming level of insecurity that has disrupted economic activities, displaced families, and left communities in distress. It is no secret that many of our Igbo brothers and sisters are relocating to Anioma land precisely because they seek safety and stability, circumstances that have sadly become elusive in certain parts of the South East. You cannot blame them; security is paramount in any jurisdiction. Given this reality, what rational justification exists for pushing a newly created state into a geopolitical region currently mired in such turmoil?

It is also worth pointing out that the rightful approach to addressing the South East’s long-standing demand for an additional state is for its own political leaders and stakeholders to champion the cause. The South East geopolitical zone has every right to lobby for the creation of a sixth state, this is a legitimate and justifiable demand that should be pursued. However, what is baffling is the reverse scenario where individuals outside the South East, including some from Delta North, are at the forefront of this push. If the South East needs an additional state, let its own political leaders and stakeholders take up that cause directly and make a compelling case, rather than seeking to rope Anioma into a geopolitical reclassification that may not serve its best interests.

Beyond the political and security concerns, another crucial dimension to this issue is the deep historical and cultural ties that Anioma people share with their neighbours in Delta State. Anioma is not an isolated ethnic entity; we have a long-standing relationship with our Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, and other Delta State brothers and sisters. We all coexisted under the old Bendel State before the creation of Delta State, and over the decades, we have built strong social, economic, and political bonds. This proposed move threatens to sever these ties permanently.

Is this political divorce truly worth it? What do we stand to gain by turning our backs on those with whom we have shared history, governance, and mutual cooperation? Would Anioma people be better off abandoning the South-South geopolitical bloc, where we have a strategic presence, to align with a South East region facing uncertainty? These are fundamental questions that must be answered with careful thought, not sentiment.

I have expressed my reservations about this issue before, and I will not stop speaking against it. History will bear witness to the fact that some of us did not remain silent while this agenda was being aggressively promoted. We will continue to do what we can to stop this move because we see the dangers ahead, and it would be a dereliction of duty to ignore them.

What I find particularly striking is the conspicuous silence of many voices that ought to engage in this discourse. While I acknowledge that not everyone may share my position, I also recognise that some may be hesitant to speak, not necessarily because they support the move, but perhaps out of deference to the personality of the individual driving this agenda. Senator Ned Nwoko, without question, is a man of considerable influence, and his commitment to projects he believes in is undeniable. I respect him, and I consider him a friend. However, friendship must never stand in the way of truth, nor should personal affiliations deter people from taking a stand on matters of critical importance.

My position is not driven by personal animosity, political rivalry, or any ulterior motive. Rather, it stems from a sincere concern for the well-being and future of Anioma people. This is not just a debate about state creation; it is about security, strategic alignment, and the long-term interests of our people. Political decisions of this magnitude cannot be based on sentiment or historical ties alone, they must be guided by logic, pragmatism, and a clear understanding of the consequences.

Anioma people must ask themselves some fundamental questions. Are we truly prepared to trade our relative stability for an uncertain future? Have we thoroughly examined the long-term political and economic ramifications of being reclassified into a different geopolitical bloc? Do we understand what this means in terms of representation, allocation of resources, and administrative control? What assurances do we have that this shift will serve our best interests in the long run? These are serious questions that cannot be ignored.

Furthermore, we must not lose sight of the fact that geopolitical alignments carry significant implications beyond mere identity. They determine political representation, federal allocations, and access to developmental projects. Currently, Anioma enjoys a unique advantage as part of Delta State within the South-South geopolitical zone, a region with substantial economic and political influence in national affairs. By shifting to the South East, Anioma would be entering an entirely different political calculus, one that may not necessarily work in its favour.

I want to be absolutely clear: I do not support the ongoing lobbying for Anioma State if it means zoning the state to the South East geopolitical region. I believe in the unity of Anioma people, I believe in their right to demand development, but I do not believe that this is the right approach. There are better ways to achieve economic growth, infrastructural development, and political relevance without making a move that, in my view, exposes us to unnecessary risks.

Those of us who see these dangers have a duty to speak out, to resist any attempt to railroad Anioma into a geopolitical classification that does not serve its best interests, and to ensure that our future is determined by careful, informed decision-making.

History will judge us all. Let us ensure that we are on the right side of it.

By Charles Chukwuedo Snr, Esq. ©.
9/3/2025
Charleschukwuedo@gmail.com

anioma or another state should be created and added to complete the SE to the normal 6. E get many why’s

Peppermaster:
ANIOMA STATE: A MISGUIDED PROPOSAL WITH DANGEROUS IMPLICATIONS.

By Charles Chukwuedo Snr, Esq.

The ongoing advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko, the distinguished Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, is an initiative that I cannot, in good conscience, support, particularly if the ultimate objective is to align the proposed state with the South East geopolitical zone. While I am an ardent believer in fairness and equity in Nigeria’s political configuration, and I strongly support the South East having an additional state to bring it on par with other geopolitical zones, the idea that Anioma should be carved into the South East is deeply troubling and fundamentally flawed.

At the heart of my concern is not just the issue of state creation itself, although I remain sceptical that the mere multiplication of states is a panacea for development, but the broader implications of where and how such a state is positioned. Since its inception, Delta State has received substantial allocations and has access to vast resources that, if properly harnessed, should have propelled the state to an enviable level of development. The notion that the mere creation of another state will magically solve governance inefficiencies is misguided. The real issue has always been prudent leadership, strategic economic planning, and effective management of resources, not an arbitrary redrawing of boundaries.

Even if we were to momentarily assume, without conceding, that the creation of new states could provide developmental benefits, there remains a far more pressing question: Why would anyone push for Anioma to be absorbed into a geopolitical zone currently grappling with severe security challenges? This, to me, is the most perplexing and distressing aspect of the entire conversation.

The South East, our historical and cultural brethren, is currently facing an alarming level of insecurity that has disrupted economic activities, displaced families, and left communities in distress. It is no secret that many of our Igbo brothers and sisters are relocating to Anioma land precisely because they seek safety and stability, circumstances that have sadly become elusive in certain parts of the South East. You cannot blame them; security is paramount in any jurisdiction. Given this reality, what rational justification exists for pushing a newly created state into a geopolitical region currently mired in such turmoil?

It is also worth pointing out that the rightful approach to addressing the South East’s long-standing demand for an additional state is for its own political leaders and stakeholders to champion the cause. The South East geopolitical zone has every right to lobby for the creation of a sixth state, this is a legitimate and justifiable demand that should be pursued. However, what is baffling is the reverse scenario where individuals outside the South East, including some from Delta North, are at the forefront of this push. If the South East needs an additional state, let its own political leaders and stakeholders take up that cause directly and make a compelling case, rather than seeking to rope Anioma into a geopolitical reclassification that may not serve its best interests.

Beyond the political and security concerns, another crucial dimension to this issue is the deep historical and cultural ties that Anioma people share with their neighbours in Delta State. Anioma is not an isolated ethnic entity; we have a long-standing relationship with our Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, and other Delta State brothers and sisters. We all coexisted under the old Bendel State before the creation of Delta State, and over the decades, we have built strong social, economic, and political bonds. This proposed move threatens to sever these ties permanently.

Is this political divorce truly worth it? What do we stand to gain by turning our backs on those with whom we have shared history, governance, and mutual cooperation? Would Anioma people be better off abandoning the South-South geopolitical bloc, where we have a strategic presence, to align with a South East region facing uncertainty? These are fundamental questions that must be answered with careful thought, not sentiment.

I have expressed my reservations about this issue before, and I will not stop speaking against it. History will bear witness to the fact that some of us did not remain silent while this agenda was being aggressively promoted. We will continue to do what we can to stop this move because we see the dangers ahead, and it would be a dereliction of duty to ignore them.

What I find particularly striking is the conspicuous silence of many voices that ought to engage in this discourse. While I acknowledge that not everyone may share my position, I also recognise that some may be hesitant to speak, not necessarily because they support the move, but perhaps out of deference to the personality of the individual driving this agenda. Senator Ned Nwoko, without question, is a man of considerable influence, and his commitment to projects he believes in is undeniable. I respect him, and I consider him a friend. However, friendship must never stand in the way of truth, nor should personal affiliations deter people from taking a stand on matters of critical importance.

My position is not driven by personal animosity, political rivalry, or any ulterior motive. Rather, it stems from a sincere concern for the well-being and future of Anioma people. This is not just a debate about state creation; it is about security, strategic alignment, and the long-term interests of our people. Political decisions of this magnitude cannot be based on sentiment or historical ties alone, they must be guided by logic, pragmatism, and a clear understanding of the consequences.

Anioma people must ask themselves some fundamental questions. Are we truly prepared to trade our relative stability for an uncertain future? Have we thoroughly examined the long-term political and economic ramifications of being reclassified into a different geopolitical bloc? Do we understand what this means in terms of representation, allocation of resources, and administrative control? What assurances do we have that this shift will serve our best interests in the long run? These are serious questions that cannot be ignored.

Furthermore, we must not lose sight of the fact that geopolitical alignments carry significant implications beyond mere identity. They determine political representation, federal allocations, and access to developmental projects. Currently, Anioma enjoys a unique advantage as part of Delta State within the South-South geopolitical zone, a region with substantial economic and political influence in national affairs. By shifting to the South East, Anioma would be entering an entirely different political calculus, one that may not necessarily work in its favour.

I want to be absolutely clear: I do not support the ongoing lobbying for Anioma State if it means zoning the state to the South East geopolitical region. I believe in the unity of Anioma people, I believe in their right to demand development, but I do not believe that this is the right approach. There are better ways to achieve economic growth, infrastructural development, and political relevance without making a move that, in my view, exposes us to unnecessary risks.

Those of us who see these dangers have a duty to speak out, to resist any attempt to railroad Anioma into a geopolitical classification that does not serve its best interests, and to ensure that our future is determined by careful, informed decision-making.

History will judge us all. Let us ensure that we are on the right side of it.

By Charles Chukwuedo Snr, Esq. ©.
9/3/2025
Charleschukwuedo@gmail.com

The Ika and Aniocha part of Delta state were never part of the midwestern region.
The truth is that Igbo unity is paramount as the plight of the Igbo man in Nigeria is the same irrespective of geopolitical zones.

So this confused igbo man doesn't even know that the uhrobos have been holding their own meetings and about to present their own proposal for the creation of uhrobo state with headquarters in ughelli? Does he even know how the uhrobos, ishekiri and ijaws see the anioma people in their secret meetings?
Does he even think the uhrobos and ishekiris are happy that the capital of delta state is situated in asaba instead of delta south or central where the major natural resources of the state is located?
Does he even think this current political artificial insecurity in igboland that was solely caused by the igbophobic apc govt is going to last forever?
Why can't he see the bigger picture of anioma state creation where there will be massive infrastructural developments in all the undeveloped communities in anioma with the creation of new local govt areas and also more opportunities for anioma people to be elected or appointed as commissioners, house of rep. members, senators, ambassadors and ministers? This man is not really a learnered or enlightened as he wants people to believe.

owobokiri:
A state should be created in the South South to compensate them for the heavy revenue accruals they surrender to the Nigerian federal government every month end and to bring them up to par with the North East who have SEVEN states, while only contributing fulani herdsmen and idiotic presidents to the union since 1966. There is mo reasons why the North East should have more states than the south south, or any other region.

A fresh state should also be created in the current South East to make it up to 6 states in total.., which is basically the national average. That new SE state can come from any or a combination of the present 5 SE states. That will help to administratively checkmate the lop-sided realities associated with federal appointments, positions and allocations. The south-east has been shortchanged on these for decades. So we should be looking at 2 states. One in the south south and another in the south-east..

The SS states already get 13% derivation on account of the oil exploration in the region. I think the political discourse should now revolve around state control of resources. Also, the Anioma people are Igbos and so they should be united with their SE brothers.

y dem kon use pdp man face

Ruke1989:
Sir, there are many right thinking people like you especially among the ndokwa people of anioma. Ndokwa people resources will be used by the ika, Onitsha and Aniocha people to the detriment of the Ndokwa. Speaking similar languages doesn't always guarantee that everyone will be fairly treated. Anioma has various dialects and the weakest politically are the ndokwa people who have been historically neglected even by their ika brother okowa when he was governor.

Igbos oppressed ikwere when they were together in eastern region that's why ikweres hate to be identified as Igbo. Similar thing may play out in the new anioma state because Aniocha and Onitsha people see themselves as one and don't regard the Ndokwa as much so it's going to be a political miscalculation for the ndokwa since Nigeria politicians focus on the dividing factors during campaign irrespective of tribe

This is where zoning of the governor's office will come in just like as it's currently practiced in delta state.

Ruke1989:
Sir, there are many right thinking people like you especially among the ndokwa people of anioma. Ndokwa people resources will be used by the ika, Onitsha and Aniocha people to the detriment of the Ndokwa. Speaking similar languages doesn't always guarantee that everyone will be fairly treated. Anioma has various dialects and the weakest politically are the ndokwa people who have been historically neglected even by their ika brother okowa when he was governor.

Igbos oppressed ikwere when they were together in eastern region that's why ikweres hate to be identified as Igbo. Similar thing may play out in the new anioma state because Aniocha and Onitsha people see themselves as one and don't regard the Ndokwa as much so it's going to be a political miscalculation for the ndokwa since Nigeria politicians focus on the dividing factors during campaign irrespective of tribe

This narrative is not true. The Ikwerres were saboteurs who thought they would be given special privileges after betraying their own people during the civil war.
The Nigerian situation has given them several hard knocks and is still giving them the said hard knocks, as the Nigerian Institution keeps plundering their resources and leaving them with relative nothing.
Actually, several anthropologists and historians view their denial of their Igbo heritage as folly because they speak an Igbo dialect, they practice Igbo culture, they bear Igbo names, they have Igbo phenotype, strong genealogical relationships etc. Historical evidence strongly prove that the land known as ikwerre land was inhabited thousands of years before the Benin kingdom was founded thereby putting that fallacy (about Benin ancestry) to a quick rest. This is why their elite have come out to openly proclaim their Igbo heritage.
Also, disregard the falsehood being peddled by the Oluwole Media houses about the Ikwerres being oppressed in the old eastern region. That narrative is false. In the Nigerian constitution, all the states have their rights and privileges, so no state can dictate to another state. No state in the SE is being overshadowed or suppressed by any other state.
The insecurity in the SE is politically engineered from all indications because with the level of militarization, one would have thought that the whole situation would have been brought to a logical conclusion.

AdeYORUFAFO:
The SS states already get 13% derivation on account of the oil exploration in the region. I think the political discourse should now revolve around state control of resources. Also, the Anioma people are Igbos and so they should be united with their SE brothers.

The socalled 13% derivation fund is a paltry sum to be given to oil producing states. Starting point should be around 50 to 60%. That was what it used to be before the war. In any event, some Northern oil well owners make more money in a month that some states in the oil producing areas. 13% is unacceptable. Oyo is not giving us all her money from cocoa sales, while waiting for the federal government to give them just 13% afterwards. Sokoto is not paying any tax on livestock sales not to talk of the solid minerals excavated from there. Let the oil states make their monies and give a little to the feds..