…Says Anioma’s quest for statehood remains strong and justified
Senator Prince Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has addressed concerns raised by constituents over the choice of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as the venue for the South-South public hearing on the proposed creation of Anioma State.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Senator Nwoko acknowledged that the concerns of the Anioma people are legitimate. He noted that while Asaba — the capital of Delta State and cultural hub of Anioma — would have been a more suitable venue, the decision was not within his control.
“The choice of venue was not made by me or any individual state actor,” Nwoko clarified. “It was determined by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, which adopted a zonal approach to streamline logistics and ensure regional representation.”
Under the zonal arrangement:
• Lagos will host the South-West,
• Enugu will host the South-East,
• Uyo will host the South-South,
• Minna will host the North-Central,
• Bauchi will host the North-East,
• and Kaduna will host the North-West.
Senator Nwoko stressed that the location of the hearing does not diminish the strength or urgency of Anioma’s quest for statehood.
“Our demand for Anioma State is rooted in justice, equity, and historical identity. The venue does not alter our legitimacy,” he affirmed.
Calling for strong participation, Nwoko urged Anioma sons and daughters from all walks of life — traditional rulers, youth groups, civil society organizations, and professionals — to mobilize for the Uyo hearing.
“I will be in Uyo to represent Anioma with clarity and conviction,” he stated. “But our collective presence will send an even more powerful message.”
He assured his constituents of his continued dedication to the cause and expressed confidence that, despite the challenges, the dream of Anioma State remains within reach.
“With unity, resilience, and strategic engagement, Anioma will take its rightful place as a federating unit in Nigeria,” he concluded.
The public hearing in Uyo is part of the National Assembly’s broader efforts to amend the 1999 Constitution, with key national issues — including state creation — on the agenda.
