By Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika
Amidst the renewed advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, robust discussions have emerged concerning critical issues such as linguistic affinity, the geopolitical zone to which the proposed state should be assigned and broader socio-economic and political considerations. In this context, Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, an Ukwuani native speaker linguist, development expert and communication scholar offers a compelling perspective in support of the Anioma state movement.
She contends that, this movement is a historic and transformative idea, deeply anchored in language, heritage and the pursuit of progress; it is where language and legacy converge to chart a forward-looking course for Anioma people and the nation as a whole; and Anioma’s rightful place within Nigeria’s federation transcends traditional “borders” and epitomizes the principle of unity in diversity.
Anioma State: Don’t Derail, Embrace the Moment
Nigeria’s journey as a nation has always been about the transformative power of ideas; ideas that reshape boundaries, empower communities and ignite progress. Today, the call for the creation of Anioma State presents such an idea; fresh, rooted in history, forged by linguistic and cultural unity and poised to carve out a bright new chapter for the people of Anioma and Nigeria at large.
So, the vision for Anioma State is a movement for recognition, development, and justice. For those concerned or opposed to Anioma aligning with the South East geopolitical zone, it is vital to address these apprehensions with historical context, linguistic facts and a pragmatic, future-focused lens. This case leverages rich academic insight and evidence to assure all stakeholders that placing Anioma in the South East not only honours historical and linguistic realities but also empowers the Anioma people and Nigeria as a whole.
Historical Pulse of Anioma Statehood
The push for Anioma state is no fleeting whim; it is deeply entrenched in decades of aspiration and collective efforts by the Anioma people. Tracing back through historical documents and accounts, the Anioma people have long desired a state that encapsulates their unique identity, geographically nestled in Delta North, yet culturally resonant with their Igbo kin. Evidence on the historical trajectory of Anioma statehood shows that since Nigeria’s independence, the Anioma people, a distinct group in Delta North, have persistently called for a state that aligns with their identity, aspirations and needs. So, the advocacy for Anioma State did not emerge in a vacuum.
From early petitions to regional assemblies, through communal advocacy and political mobilisation, these efforts reveal a people united in purpose and persistent in pursuit of autonomy, self-governance and equitable resource management. These petitions, policy engagements and community organising all evidence that the case for Anioma State is deeply rooted in the people’s collective experience and their quest for recognition, equitable resource distribution and effective self-governance. As a result, the creation of Anioma State is not just about political boundaries: it is about affirming the dignity, heritage and aspirations of millions who feel a natural belonging that current state structures do not fully acknowledge.
Linguistic Affinity: An Incontrovertible Bond
Distinguished scholars such as Joseph Greenberg, Kay Williamson and John Bendor-Samuel have laid the groundwork in African linguistics, identifying profound connections among Nigeria’s ethno-linguistic groups. Their researches highlight the sturdy linguistic affinity between Anioma dialects and Igbo languages, proving beyond doubt that the Anioma people are part of the greater Igbo ethnolinguistic family.
This academic consensus firmly places the Anioma people within the Igboid language group, driven by robust lexico-statistical analysis: Williamson’s lexico-statistical survey of the Igboid languages reveals significant lexical similarity across the group, supporting a close genetic relationship among these languages. Her analysis identifies shared core vocabulary items and cognates, which underscore the linguistic unity of the Anioma dialects within the Igboid family. This evidence strengthens the argument that Anioma should be recognised politically in alignment with their linguistic and cultural heritage. Specifically, Williamson stated that the classification showing the lexicostatistic percentage of the Igboid lects reveals that Ikwerre is 72%, Ogbah, 77%; Igbo, 79%; Ukwuani, 73%; and Ekpeye is 65%. As such, the lects are closely related, with Ekpeye being the most distantly related to the other lects in the Igboid group.
Furthermore, Greenberg’s foundational research further situates Anioma dialects within the Volta-Niger subgroup of the Niger-Congo family, alongside Igbo confirming deep historical and linguistic ties. Again, Bendor-Samuel’s extensive fieldwork further authenticated these ties, underscoring shared lexical, phonological and syntactic features. This linguistic unity transcends administrative borders and speaks to a cultural identity that is organic, enduring and deserving of political recognition through a distinct Anioma State. It demonstrates that Anioma’s linguistic characteristics are not an administrative accident, but a birthright.
Ipso facto, the South East is defined not only by geography but by cultural and linguistic brotherhood, which Anioma naturally shares. Hence, it is essential to understand that canvassing for the exclusion of Anioma from the South East because some of the dialects claim not to have affinity with Igbo would ignore scholarly consensus and lived heritage. While acknowledging historical and linguistic realities builds trust in the Nigerian system; and stronger national unity.
Embracing Geopolitical Flexibility: A Vision for Nigeria’s Future
The opposition to Anioma joining the South East is often rooted in concerns about political categorisation. Yet, Nigeria’s geo-political zones are historically fluid as we have traversed political categorisation. During the colonial era, we had Northern and Southern Protectorates; First Republic: North, East and West Regions; post-independence, witnessed the addition of Mid-West Region; and today, six zones (North Central, North East, North West, South East, South South and South West). So, Nigeria’s geo-political zoning has always been dynamic, evolving in response to shifting political, social and cultural realities; and this history illustrates that geopolitical zones are not immutable. They evolve alongside Nigeria’s realities; And they can and will change as national conversations progress. As such, we should see Anioma’s present alignment as a bridge to the future, not a permanent division. Geographic assignment should therefore not supersede the Anioma people’s right to seize a historic opportunity for statehood.
In fact, Anioma’s acceptance of whichever geopolitical zone it will be allotted is an act of political maturity and strategic foresight because history teaches us that geopolitical zones can and will be reconfigured as Nigeria grows and develops. Therefore, Anioma should seize this moment of state creation without resistance or parochial disquietude about geopolitical categorisation. The statehood journey transcends zones, it is about securing recognition, governance autonomy and unlocking development potential. Focusing on zone disputes could mean “throwing away the baby with the bathwater”; instead, this is the moment to prioritise progress over boundaries.
The Case for Creation: Economic, Social and Political Imperatives
Beyond history and linguistics, an Anioma State promises to unlock sustainable development. The people of Anioma have unique economic resources, cultural heritage and human capital that remain underutilised under broad jurisdictional administration; and statehood would unlock via local governance and investment. A dedicated state government would enable tailor-made policies, infrastructure development, education focused on local needs and foster investment opportunities.
Politically, statehood offers a platform where Anioma voices carry full weight in Nigeria’s federal system, enhancing representation and participation. This is not about fragmentation but about federalism at its best; allowing diverse peoples to steer their destinies within an indivisible Nigeria.
Call for Calm, Unity and Unstoppable Resolve
The creation of Anioma State is not merely a regional call; it is a national imperative. It is a movement woven from historical precedence, linguistic reality, geopolitical pragmatism and visionary development. Again, the siting of Anioma State in the South East is a step historically, linguistically and democratically justified. To naysayers and critics who see this as division or discord, history’s lesson is clear: no force can halt an idea whose time has truly come. So, it is unstoppable, necessary and unifying for all.
Embracing this transition with calm and strategic resolve will ensure that Anioma, Nigeria and all her people move courageously into a brighter future. The Anioma statehood movement is peaceful, democratic and forward-thinking; and has always favoured peaceful, lawful and inclusive methods, demonstrating readiness for responsible statehood. So, let us not “throw away the baby with the bathwater” by allowing fear or misunderstanding to derail an indigenous people’s quest for progress. Instead, let us embrace this as a moment to demonstrate Nigeria’s strength in unity, diverse yet cohesive; and to foster a hopeful future where every citizen’s identity and aspirations are recognised and celebrated. Let us, therefore, stand firm in peace, harness the power of this idea and ensure that the Anioma people step boldly into their rightful place within Nigeria’s federation. Nobody can stop an idea whose time has come!
– Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, an Ukwuani native speaker linguist, communication expert and communication scholar writes from Lagos
