Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has revealed that the Igbanke people of Edo State are pushing to be part of the proposed Anioma State, which would align with the South-East region due to their shared cultural and ethnic heritage.
In a conversation on X (formerly Twitter), monitored by NN News Media, Nwoko explained that the Igbanke people’s request to join Anioma stems from their close ties with the Igbo community.
However, this aspiration faces strong resistance from Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, who is reportedly against the move. The governor’s opposition is largely driven by economic interests, particularly the valuable oil and gas deposits in the Igbanke region, which would complicate Edo State’s economic structure if the area is transferred to Anioma.
The Igbanke people, who reside in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, share significant cultural and linguistic similarities with the Ika communities of Delta State, such as Agbor and Mbiri. Historically, these groups were part of the old Bendel State until its division into Edo and Delta States over two decades ago. The separation created a cultural divide, but now, the Igbanke people are seeking to reunite with their kinsmen under the proposed Anioma State, strengthening their collective identity.
Despite the cultural motivations, the proposal is complicated by economic factors. According to Senator Nwoko, Governor Obaseki’s primary concern lies with the region’s oil and gas resources, which play a crucial role in Edo State’s economy. As a result, the request to integrate Igbanke into Anioma is facing political pushback.
Nwoko also shared his broader vision for Igbo unity, noting that after the creation of Anioma State, future efforts would focus on establishing an Ikwere State in the next 12 years.
Cultural and Historical Context:
The Igbanke people share deep historical and cultural ties with the Ika communities in Delta State, a connection that dates back to the days before the formation of Edo and Delta States from the former Bendel State. This split separated closely related communities, but now the Igbanke Strategic Group has officially expressed their desire to reunite with their kinsmen under the proposed Anioma State.
Political Opposition and Economic Interests:
Governor Obaseki’s opposition highlights the complex interplay between cultural identity and economic interests. While the Igbanke people seek recognition of their heritage, the presence of oil and gas resources in the region makes the issue more politically sensitive. The potential loss of these resources is a key factor in the governor’s resistance to the idea of transferring the Igbanke region to Anioma.
Senator Nwoko’s Advocacy for Anioma State:
Senator Nwoko is a strong advocate for the creation of Anioma State, which he believes would bring together various Igbo-speaking communities under one political entity. This, he argues, would empower these communities to address identity, governance, and development issues more effectively. His push for Anioma State has gained traction, particularly among groups that value the unification of culturally similar communities.
Conclusion:
The Igbanke people’s bid to be part of Anioma State is a significant cultural and political movement aimed at restoring historical ties and solidifying their identity. However, the opposition from Governor Obaseki, driven by economic interests surrounding oil and gas, represents a major hurdle. As discussions unfold, the outcome of this issue will have far-reaching consequences for both the Igbanke people and the political landscape of Nigeria.
