A high-level delegation comprising Anioma traditional rulers, a representative of the Olu of Warri, political leaders, and key stakeholders on Wednesday met with the leadership of the National Assembly to advance discussions on the proposed creation of Anioma State within the framework of the ongoing constitutional amendment process.
The strategic engagement follows the widely reported declaration of March 26, 2026, by Senate President Godswill Akpabio that Anioma State, with Asaba as capital, alongside a New Delta State with Warri as capital, are to be created as part of constitutional amendment.
Addressing the Assembly leadership, the delegation described the agitation for Anioma State as a historic, people-driven movement spanning over seven decades, deeply anchored in equity and cultural identity. They firmly dispelled the misconception that the agitation is solely driven by Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta Senatorial District at the Senate , emphasizing that it is backed by a broad-based, grassroots consensus across Anioma communities and leadership structures.
The stakeholders thanked the leadership of the House of Representatives for its support and expressed optimism that the eventual restructuring of the present Delta State into Anioma and New Delta States would bring accelerated development, foster administrative effectiveness and promote balanced regional growth.
Welcoming the delegation on behalf of the House leadership, Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, described the National Assembly as a “fortress of democratic engagement” reaffirming its commitment to inclusive participation in addressing national issues. He also conveyed the goodwill of the Speaker to the delegation.
The Deputy Speaker noted that state creation remains an important political process, requiring collaboration among critical stakeholders—including traditional rulers, legislators, political actors and civil society groups. He noted that the Anioma State proposal would be evaluated under key parameters such as geographical balance, historical and cultural ties, economic viability and political realities.
According to the Deputy Speaker, sustained dialogue, strategic partnerships and mutual understanding were essential to achieving lasting outcomes.
The delegation featured prominent traditional rulers, including HRM Obi Henry Kikachukwu (Obi of Ubulu-Uno), HRM Obi Charles Chukwunwike Anyasi III (Obi of Idumuje-Unor), HRM Michael Mbanefo Ogbolu (Ugoani of Okpanam), HRM Oloza Ayo Isinyemeze (Obi of Ugbodu), HRM Daniel Ogbudo (Obi of Atuma), HRM Paul Solomon Ifeneziuche (Obi of Amai), HRM Chukwuma Jikeme I (Obi of Ute-Ogbeje), and royal fathers from Igbanke, among others.
Also present were Hon. Daniel Reyenieju, a former member of the House of Representatives, Warri Federal Constituency, who attended on behalf of the Olu of Warri; Chief Leroy Edozien, the Ubili ka Nkwu of Asaba; Dr. Kingsley Ojei, National President of Izu Anioma; Professor Abigail Ndisika Ogwezzy, members of the Anioma State Creation Technical Committee; and other stakeholders, reinforcing the growing momentum behind the long-standing quest for Anioma.
