By Austin Oyibode
Amid swirling speculation over the status of Asaba as the capital of the proposed Anioma State, official documents have now put the controversy to rest.
Persistent rumours across social media had suggested that plans were underway to relocate the capital to another city within Anioma once the state is created. But a review of the Anioma State Creation Bill has confirmed that such claims are entirely unfounded.
In an effort to verify the rumours, our correspondent contacted Senator Ned Nwoko, who is championing the Anioma State creation effort in the National Assembly. The senator’s office promptly forwarded the official bill, offering direct insight into the provisions guiding the proposed state structure.
According to the bill, Asaba is unequivocally designated as the capital of the proposed Anioma State. The document makes this declaration “boldly and without ambiguity,” effectively dispelling speculation that a relocation was being considered.
The document also clarifies the composition of the proposed Anioma State. It comprises only the nine local government areas of Delta North Senatorial District, countering misinformation that territories from neighbouring Anambra State might be merged into the new entity. The bill does not include, reference, or propose the annexation of any part of Anambra State, contrary to claims circulating online.
In addition to clarifying geographical and administrative boundaries, the bill offers historical grounding for the renewed agitation. It states that the demand for an Anioma homeland dates back to 1954, when the people of the region submitted a formal request to the colonial administration in London.
Although that early effort fell short of achieving its goal, the bill asserts that it “laid the foundation that remains solid today,” emphasizing the longevity and legitimacy of the quest for statehood.
The document further argues that Anioma is economically viable, highlighting its significant deposits of oil and gas as key assets that can sustain the proposed state. It underscores that the creation of Anioma State would not impose undue economic burden, reinforcing confidence in the region’s capacity for self-governance.
As debates around state creation continue to gain traction nationally, the Anioma proposal remains the most prominent. With the bill now providing clear positions on its capital, boundaries, and historical justification, proponents hope the clarification will shift public focus back to the merits of the long-standing demand.
For now, lawmakers and constituents alike can rely on one certainty: if Anioma State is created, Asaba will be its capital, just as it has been envisioned for decades.
