The recent push for the creation of Anioma State, championed by Senator Ned Nwoko, echoes the long-standing aspirations of the Anioma people, an Igbo district in the northern part of Delta State, Nigeria. This movement, which has persisted for decades, transcends individual political ambitions. It represents a collective desire for cultural preservation, equitable representation, and regional development while addressing historical injustices that have shaped the Anioma people’s experience.
Historically, the Anioma people have maintained a distinct Igbo identity, setting them apart from the Urhobo, Isoko, Ijaw and Itsekiri communities in Delta State. This cultural uniqueness was first formalized in 1951 by Chief (Dr.) Dennis Chukude Osadebay, a visionary leader whose efforts laid the foundation for the quest for Anioma State. Osadebay’s legacy remains a testament to Anioma’s enduring pursuit of self-determination and community-driven progress.
Over the years, the Anioma State movement has been sustained by the advocacy of prominent figures, including Chief Sonny Odogwu, Dr. Amadi Emina, Ambassador Ralph Uwechue, and Professor Sylvester Monye, MFR. Professor Monye, a renowned scholar and public policy expert, has been a steadfast advocate for Anioma’s socio-political and economic development. His contributions to the movement reflect a deep commitment to justice and fairness within Nigeria’s federal structure. These leaders emphasize that the creation of Anioma State would provide a framework for preserving the cultural heritage of the Anioma people while fostering socio-economic development.
Historical Injustices and the Case for Anioma State
The argument for Anioma State is deeply rooted in historical grievances. During the British colonial era, administrative boundaries were drawn with little regard for cultural and ethnic ties, fragmenting the Anioma people and aligning their lands with neighboring regions. This arbitrary division disrupted their sense of unity and cultural cohesion. By addressing these boundary injustices, the creation of Anioma State would restore the integrity of the Anioma community and reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to equitable governance.
Anioma’s resilience and rich history further bolster the case for statehood. The Ekumeku resistance of the late 19th century, a historic anti-colonial struggle against British imperialism, emphasis the Anioma people’s enduring spirit of self-determination and unity. The establishment of Anioma State would honour this legacy, uniting fragmented communities and addressing grievances that have persisted for over a century.
Anioma State and National Unity
The call for Anioma State is not merely a regional demand but a broader appeal for justice, equity, and unity within Nigeria. Other successful examples, such as the creation of Ebonyi State, demonstrate the potential for new states to enhance regional stability, foster socio-economic growth, and provide marginalized communities with a platform for self-governance. Anioma State, if created, would serve as a model for inclusive governance and sustainable development in Nigeria, showcasing the strength of ethnic diversity within an equitable federal system.
Moving Forward
The Anioma people’s advocacy for statehood has remained peaceful and persistent, reflecting their commitment to democratic principles and national unity. The movement underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing historical injustices while promoting cultural preservation and equitable development. The creation of Anioma State would not only fulfill a long-standing aspiration but also strengthen Nigeria’s federal structure, ensuring that no group is left behind.
References
Ekwe-Ekwe, H. (2013). The Biafra War: Nigeria and the Aftermath. Edwin Mellen Press.
Ikime, O. (1980). Groundwork of Nigerian History. Heinemann Educational Books.
Monye, S. (2023). Perspectives on the Anioma State Movement. Anioma Heritage Series.
Nwoko, N. (2024). Anioma State and the Pursuit of Justice: A Historical Perspective. Anioma Heritage Publications.
Osae-Brown, F. (2011). Ekumeku Movement: A Forgotten Chapter in Anioma History. Nigerian Historical Review, 15(2), 120-135.
Uwechue, R. (1991). Reflections on Nigeria’s Federalism: The Anioma Question. Fourth Dimension Publishing.
