Anioma Indigenes Must Accept Their Igbo Identity – Ned Nwoko

The people of Anioma in Delta State have been urged to fully embrace their Igbo identity and work together with their kinsmen in the Southeast towards building a stronger and more united Nigeria.

The call was made in Asaba by the Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Prince Ned Nwoko, while addressing participants at a conference organised by the Igbo Unification Movement in collaboration with the Ndi na Asu Bia socio-cultural organisation.

The event, held under the theme “Igbo Bu Ofu” (Igbos Are One), brought together stakeholders committed to cultural and political unity.

The Igbo Unification Movement and Ndi na Asu Bia have over the years grown into strong advocacy platforms promoting the cultural, historical, and political integration of Igbo-speaking communities across Nigeria. Their campaigns extend to Anioma in Delta North, Igbanke in Edo State, and other border communities. According to the groups, reclaiming a unified Igbo identity is vital for political relevance, cultural renewal, and correcting decades of distorted narratives.

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Speaking at the gathering, Senator Nwoko commended the organisers for their commitment, stating that their vision aligns with his long-standing belief in the recognition of Anioma as an integral part of Igbo land. He noted that his advocacy for the creation of Anioma State out of Delta North was rooted in identity and justice.

“There is no argument about our Igbo-ness. I understand history very well. I have a degree in history. I know the migration of the Igbo people, and I know clearly that we, the Anioma, are Igbo. Time has come for us to reverse the old narratives that separated us from our brothers across the Niger,” Nwoko declared.

The lawmaker, who recently sponsored a motion for the creation of Anioma State in the National Assembly, explained that his agitation is not driven by politics or personal ambition but by the need to correct historical injustices. He expressed hope that when Anioma State is eventually created, an Ndokwa son or daughter would become its first governor.

“This is not about APC, PDP, or Labour Party. It is about identity, justice, and fairness. I have no interest in being governor, but I want Anioma to stand tall with its own state, with Asaba as its capital. That way, we also fulfill the dream of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which has always recognised Anioma as one of the Igbo states,” he added.

Recounting his childhood experience during the Nigerian Civil War, Nwoko revealed that Anioma communities suffered ethnic cleansing and were compelled to conceal their Igbo identity in order to survive. He emphasised that the lingering identity crisis born from that era must now be replaced with truth and reconciliation.

The senator also applauded the contributions of scholars and activists, particularly Professor Abigail Ogwezzy of the University of Lagos, whose research into Anioma linguistics and history has reaffirmed the people’s Igbo heritage.

Highlighting the wider importance of the conference, Nwoko stated:
“The Igbo man is Igbo everywhere, whether from Delta, Imo, or Abia. Just like a Chinese man remains Chinese anywhere in the world, Anioma must rise to embrace its identity. That is the only way we can achieve unity and political relevance.”

He further encouraged the Igbo Unification Movement, Ndi na Asu Bia, and other cultural organisations to sustain their advocacy, public education, and grassroots mobilisation. According to him, only through collective effort can the goal of a united Igbo nation and the realisation of Anioma State be achieved.

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