The people of Anioma in Delta State have been called upon to fully embrace their Igbo heritage and collaborate with their Southeast kinsmen to foster a stronger, more united Nigeria.
The call was made in Asaba by the Senator representing Delta North, Prince Ned Nwoko, while addressing participants at a conference organised by the Igbo Unification Movement in partnership with Ndi na Asu Bia, a socio-cultural organisation.
The event, themed “Igbo Bu Ofu” (Igbos Are One), brought together cultural leaders, advocates, and political voices who stressed the importance of identity, unity, and collective growth.
Advocacy for Igbo Unity and Anioma Identity
Over the years, the Igbo Unification Movement and Ndi na Asu Bia have championed cultural and political integration among Igbo-speaking communities across Nigeria, including Anioma in Delta North, Igbanke in Edo, and other border areas. They maintain that reclaiming Igbo identity is crucial for cultural renewal, political relevance, and correcting decades of distorted narratives.
Nwoko’s Stand on Anioma State Creation
Senator Nwoko, a long-standing advocate of Anioma’s Igbo heritage, reiterated his vision for the creation of Anioma State with Asaba as its capital. He emphasized that his agitation was not political but rooted in history, fairness, and justice.
“There is no argument about our Igbo-ness. We, the Anioma, are Igbo. It is time to reverse the old narratives that separated us from our brothers across the Niger,” he said.
He stressed that his hope was for Anioma to stand tall as a recognized Igbo state, possibly with an Ndokwa son or daughter becoming its first governor.
Healing Historical Wounds
Recounting memories of the Nigerian Civil War, Nwoko highlighted the ethnic cleansing Anioma communities endured, noting how they were forced to hide their Igbo identity for survival. He urged truth, reconciliation, and a renewed embrace of heritage.
Recognition from Scholars
Nwoko also praised scholars such as Professor Abigail Ogwezzy of the University of Lagos, whose research in linguistics and history reaffirms Anioma’s deep Igbo roots.
Call for Continued Advocacy
In his closing remarks, the senator encouraged cultural groups to continue grassroots mobilisation and advocacy, stressing that:
“The Igbo man is Igbo everywhere, whether from Delta, Imo, or Abia. Anioma must rise to embrace its identity. That is the only way to achieve unity and political relevance.”
