The push for the creation of Anioma State received a major boost on Friday, June 13, 2025, as the Ugo Anioma Movement—a socio-political group based in Delta North—formally inaugurated its operations in Asaba with a resounding endorsement of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko.
Held at the Hall of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Asaba, the event brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, and grassroots supporters from across Delta North.
At the heart of the gathering was a shared conviction: Senator Ned Nwoko is the leader best positioned to deliver on the decades-long dream of Anioma State.
In a show of unity and commitment, the Ugo Anioma Movement passed a unanimous vote of confidence in Senator Nwoko’s leadership.
The group’s president, Comrade Victor Sorokwu, moved the motion, affirming full support for the Senator’s efforts and pledging to mobilize grassroots backing across all Anioma communities—especially ahead of the upcoming constitutional dialogue scheduled for July 4–5 in Uyo.
Speaking at the event, Senator Nwoko expressed deep appreciation for the endorsement and reiterated his unwavering commitment to the creation of Anioma State.
He announced the upcoming inauguration of a high-level Technical Committee on Sunday, June 15, to be held at the historic Ogwa of the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty Prof. Epiphany Azinge. The committee will be made up of technocrats, civil society leaders, and political stakeholders selected solely based on merit, commitment, and community interest.
“This is not the time to play politics,” Senator Nwoko said. “It’s a long walk to freedom—but we are almost there. The struggle for Anioma State started before I was born. In just two years in office, I have pursued this cause with focus and passion because Anioma is not just a political project—it is a mission of identity and liberation.”
The Senator outlined the next key steps: a public hearing in Uyo, a third reading of the Bill at the Senate, and a constitutional referendum to be conducted by INEC.
“INEC will give us four weeks to campaign. Those who want Anioma will say yes. Those who don’t will say no. But I can tell you—99 percent of morally upright, forward-thinking Anioma people will vote yes,” he said.
Nwoko also revealed that President Bola Tinubu has expressed willingness to help secure the required two-thirds approval from 24 state Houses of Assembly.
Prominent figures at the inauguration echoed the movement’s endorsement. Rt. Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai, a former member of the House of Representatives, described Senator Nwoko as “the currency of the Anioma nation,” praising his legislative achievements and inclusive leadership.
“Prince Ned doesn’t care about party lines,” Ossai said. “As long as you’re from Delta North, he carries you along. He has revived the Anioma dream in a way that includes every community and every voice.”
His Royal Majesty Henry Kikachukwu, the Obi of Ubulu-Unor, urged Anioma people to rally behind Senator Nwoko’s leadership, warning that failure to seize the moment could delay the dream for another generation.
“The agitation for Anioma State began 74 years ago with Chief Dennis Osadebay,” the monarch reminded the audience. “It will continue to linger if we don’t act now. Senator Ned symbolizes unity and progress. He deserves our full support.”
As the constitutional process gains speed, the Ugo Anioma Movement and its growing coalition of supporters are positioning Senator Ned Nwoko as the face of Anioma’s historic aspiration.
With legislative traction, presidential backing, and overwhelming grassroots support, the dream of Anioma State is no longer a distant hope—it is now within reach.
