Akpabio, the Aniomas have spoken
Sir: The conversation around the proposed creation of Anioma State has sparked strong emotions, deep reflection, and renewed debates about identity, representation, and the will of the people in Nigeria’s
Sir: The conversation around the proposed creation of Anioma State has sparked strong emotions, deep reflection, and renewed debates about identity, representation, and the will of the people in Nigeria’s evolving federal structure.
Recently, Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, reportedly expressed support for the creation of Anioma State, suggesting that it should be ceded to the Southeast. While the idea of state creation is not new in Nigeria, the proposal to align Anioma with a different geopolitical zone has stirred significant resistance among the people it directly concerns.
Anioma people, predominantly from Delta North in Delta State, have voiced strong opposition to the suggestion. For many, this is not just a political matter it is a question of identity, history, and belonging. Anioma has long been associated with the South-south, historically linked to the old Mid-Western Region. This connection is deeply rooted in their cultural and administrative evolution over decades.
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Community leaders, stakeholders, and ordinary citizens alike argue that any decision affecting their geopolitical alignment must reflect their collective will. There is a growing sentiment that external political considerations should not override the voice of the people. Many Anioma indigenes see the proposal as a move that risks disregarding their historical ties and socio-political preferences.
Adding another layer to the debate is the role of Ned Nwoko, the senator representing Delta North. Nwoko has been a visible advocate for the creation of Anioma State and its potential alignment with the Southeast. However, this position has drawn criticism from some quarters within Anioma, where questions have been raised about representation and alignment with grassroots sentiment. Critics argue that his stance does not fully reflect the prevailing opinion among his constituents, though supporters maintain that he is pursuing what he believes to be in the long-term interest of the region.
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At the heart of the matter lies a fundamental democratic principle: the will of the people. The Anioma community’s resistance underscores a broader concern about participatory governance in Nigeria. Many believe that any move to create a new state—or redefine its geopolitical identity must involve extensive consultation, referendums, and transparent dialogue.
There are also fears about the potential consequences of such a decision. Opponents warn that forcing Anioma into the Southeast against the wishes of its people could deepen regional tensions, disrupt existing political balances, and create unnecessary divisions. Nigeria’s complex ethnic and regional dynamics require careful handling, especially on sensitive issues like state creation and boundary realignment.
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As discussions continue, attention is now turning to the broader leadership of the country the Presidency, the National Assembly, and other relevant institutions. There is a growing call for them to proceed with caution, listen attentively, and prioritize unity over political expediency.
Ultimately, the Anioma question is more than a regional issue; it is a reflection of how Nigeria navigates diversity, respects local identities, and strengthens its democratic processes. For the people of Anioma, their message remains clear: their history is rooted in the South-south, and their future, they insist, should remain there.
•Engr Bright Mills,<brightmills@yahoo.com>
