Akpabio Backs Anioma State Creation, Signals National Assembly Support
National Assembly Signals Support
THE push for the creation of Anioma State has received a significant boost, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio declaring that the National Assembly is favourably disposed to the proposal.
He made the remarks in Asaba during the South-South Zonal Congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he addressed party stakeholders and leaders from across the region.
Symbolism and Political Backing
Akpabio linked his endorsement to a symbolic gesture—his adornment in the traditional Akwa Ocha attire of the Anioma people—at the instance of Ned Nwoko.
According to him, the call for Anioma State reflects a legitimate aspiration of the people and deserves national consideration. He noted that if the demand represents a major regional priority, it should be embraced as part of broader national development efforts.
Development and Regional Balance
The Senate President dismissed concerns that the creation of a new state could destabilise existing structures. Instead, he argued that additional states could drive development, improve governance, and bring government closer to the people.
He suggested that Asaba could serve as the capital of the proposed Anioma State, while Warri would remain a central hub for the existing Delta framework.
Akpabio also pointed out that similar state creation efforts in other regions, particularly the South-East, would enhance regional balance and representation within the federation.
Stakeholders Reaffirm Commitment
Speaking separately, Senator Ned Nwoko described the agitation as a collective and patriotic effort rooted in the aspirations of the Anioma people.
He commended stakeholders, including federal lawmakers and community leaders, for sustaining momentum behind the proposal, pledging continued advocacy until the objective is achieved.
Call for Unity
Akpabio used the occasion to call for unity among South-South stakeholders, urging continued support for national policies under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
As discussions around state creation intensify, the Anioma proposal now appears to be gaining stronger political traction at the national level.
