Senator Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North) has made a passionate appeal to the Anioma people of Delta State to fully embrace their Igbo heritage and unite with Eastern Nigerians in the pursuit of a stronger, more inclusive nation.
Speaking at the “Igbo Bu Ofu” (Igbos Are One) conference in Asaba, organized by the Igbo Unification Movement in collaboration with the Ndi na Asu Bia Socio-Cultural Organisation, Nwoko emphasized the importance of cultural and historical unity among Igbo-speaking communities. The event brought together advocates from Anioma, Igbanke in Edo, and other border regions to address decades of identity distortion and political marginalization.
“There is no argument about our Igbo identity,” Nwoko declared. “We, the Anioma, are Igbo. It’s time to reverse the old narratives that separated us from our brothers across the Niger.”
The senator, who has previously sponsored a motion for the creation of Anioma State, reiterated that the push for statehood is not driven by political ambition but by a desire to correct historical imbalances. He expressed hope that an Ndokwa native would one day become the first governor of Anioma State, with Asaba as its capital.
“This is not about party politics,” he said. “It’s about identity, justice, and fairness.”
Nwoko also reflected on his personal experiences during the Nigerian civil war, underscoring the need for truth and reconciliation. He praised scholars like Prof. Abigail Ogwezzy for their research into Anioma’s linguistic and cultural roots, which have helped illuminate the region’s Igbo heritage.
“The Igbo man is Igbo everywhere whether from Delta, Imo, or Abia,” Nwoko stated. “Just like a Chinese man remains Chinese anywhere in the world, Anioma must rise to embrace its identity.”
He urged cultural organizations to continue their advocacy and educational efforts, stressing that only through collective action can the vision of a united Igbo nation and the realization of Anioma State come to life.
