By George Ozalla
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has revealed that his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) was motivated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to create Anioma State. Nwoko made this disclosure after a mass defection of PDP members, including the Delta Unity Group (DUG), to the APC in Agbor.
According to Nwoko, President Tinubu told him, “Join us, and we will create Anioma as the sixth state for the Igbos.” This promise was enough reason for Nwoko to switch parties, citing the historical injustices suffered by Anioma people, particularly during and after the Nigerian Civil War. Thousands were massacred in Asaba, Ishiagu, and other parts of Delta due to their Igbo identity.
Nwoko praised Ohanaeze Ndigbo for recognizing Anioma as an integral part of the Igbo nation and pushing for full cultural and political integration. “Ohanaeze treats Anioma like the seventh Igbo state. Now, we have a real opportunity to make that symbolic recognition a legal and political reality.”
Nwoko emphasized that Anioma State would be a game-changer, expanding the Igbo nation and correcting a historic wrong. He noted that the state would be rich in oil and gas, minerals, fertile land, and industrial potential, giving the Igbos a sixth state with significant economic and strategic importance. According to Nwoko, six out of the nine local governments that make up Anioma are rich in oil and gas, with over ten oil platforms and ongoing investments in infrastructure.
Nwoko’s defection to APC has already yielded positive results, with nearly N30 billion allocated in the federal budget to complete the Ogwuashi-Ukwu Dam and start a new one in the area. He believes Tinubu’s re-election would ensure the creation of Anioma State, stating, “If it
