The agitation for the creation of Anioma state as the sixth South East state must be seen as beyond modern politics. The agitation dates back to the Midwestern era with the likes of the then Premier of the region, Chief Dennis Osadebe, who obviously took a cue from his forefathers, who identified a common ancestry and lineage with similar culture, language, food, and social life.
The Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Ned Nwoko has pushed the agitation further by sponsoring a bill for the creation of Anioma state from the present Delta state in affirmation of the conviction of his forbears who stood for a unification of the Igbos across what now stands as more than seven states since the regional governments were dissolved into states. He feels that his legislative duties are anchored in raising a voice for his people.
He is looking beyond politics as he stands on the legacy of his royal heritage to preserve the legacies of his forbears. As a Prince of Idumuje-Ugboko, a descendant of HRH Obi Nwoko 1, it is almost a baton he intends to carry over to the next generation that an Anioma state becomes a reality. He is hoping that by the time the 10th Senate passes the final Bill and President Tinubu’s administration gives the people the gift of not just a state but a legacy that would outlive everyone in this generation, the country as a whole would get value in increased unity, security and maximised human and material productivity.
Of course, some people might be on the other side due to political or economic reasons, but a careful evaluation shows that legacies of this type are for the greater good and beyond personal gratification. In a democratic era, it is not just about a few voices. There would be a referendum to give the people a chance to affirm their silent requests, and the majority would always have their way.
Anioma area of Delta would be one of the most viable states in the country given the natural and human resources in the area. Some of the most productive individuals in the most strategic sectors of the country come from the Anioma axis. We have the giants in the banking and Oil and Gas sectors, Academia, diplomacy, Politics, Media, etc., from the Anioma part of Delta state. So it’s not surprising that the other parts of Delta continue to covet the gains they are getting from the Anioma part, even if the people are denied their true identity, ironically.
The people want to be reunited with their brothers and sisters across at least more than the seven states around.
The civil war brought the identity crisis that seems to be confusing generations but a distinct state would reunite the people and make the unity of the country stronger. That some public figures who have a carry-over of the war-induced identity crisis often claim to be non-Igbos for political and survivalist reasons does not invalidate the silent agitations of the citizens who have gone through being called Mid-western Igbos, Bendel Igbos, Rivers Igbos to Delta Igbos for a state of their own that should belong to the South East where they trace their ancestry with undeniable socio-religious and cultural similarities.
The quest for unity and security in the country should not be mere rhetoric. Practical steps like assuaging discontent of historical proportions, healing past emotional wounds like The Asaba massacre can reassure the youth and generations that their interest for citizenship is not taken for granted. The proverb that says that when there is equity, discontent takes flight is very true but steps must be taken to achieve same.
Creating an Anioma state would not just be in a literal sense, it would be a validation of the promise for federal character and sense of justice that can calm frayed nerves and increase security and productivity for the whole country. They say, treat a childlike his mates and he will be happy. The South East needs a 6th state and Anioma people are ready for the reunification.
