The member representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Sen. Ned Nwoko has responded to questions, concerns, and observations from constituents and stakeholders over the decision to hold the South-South public hearing on the proposed creation of Anioma State in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, instead of Asaba, Delta State—the heart of the Anioma region.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Sen. Nwoko acknowledged that the choice of Uyo over Asaba had posed legitimate questions, particularly given Asaba’s cultural and symbolic relevance to the Anioma cause.
According to him; "I have received, with deep respect, the many questions, concerns, and observations regarding the venue of the South-South public hearing on the proposed creation of Anioma State — particularly why it is being held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, rather than Asaba, the capital of Delta State and the heart of Anioma land."
"Let me begin by affirming that your concerns are completely valid. I, too, would have strongly preferred Asaba as the host city — not only for its symbolic significance but also to enable easier and fuller participation of our people in this critical constitutional process."
Sen. Nwoko, however he clarified that the decision was not within his control, as the venue was determined by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.
"The choice of venue was not made by me or by any single state actor. It was a decision taken by the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, which functions independently of regional or state-specific preferences." He stated.
He noted that, the committee adopted a zonal framework for the public hearings, designating one State per geopolitical zone as the host location, and Uyo was selected for the South-South region.
According to the statement, other designated venues across the country include Enugu for the South-East, Lagos for the South-West, Bauchi for the North-East, Minna for the North-Central, and Kaduna for the North-West.
“This arrangement is aimed at streamlining logistics, ensuring adequate security, and facilitating regional representation, even though it may not always serve the local sensitivities of specific communities like ours,”. Sen. Nwoko explained.
Sen. Nwoko reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the campaign for Anioma State, emphasizing that the demand is rooted in justice, equity, and historical identity.
He urged Anioma indigenes to participate actively in the hearing, which he described as a crucial opportunity to press the case for state creation.
“I will be present in Uyo to speak clearly and forcefully on behalf of Anioma,” he pledged. “Our presence and unified voice will send a clear and compelling message to the nation.”
"The journey to the creation of Anioma State is not without its challenges. But with resolve, unity, and persistent engagement, we will achieve this long-deserved goal. Anioma has earned its rightful place as a federating unit in the Nigerian nation."
Sen. Nwoko concluded his statement with a call for continued unity and determination, expressing confidence that with persistent engagement, the dream of Anioma State will become a reality.
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