Historic 71-Year Campaign for Anioma State Gains Momentum at Public Hearing as Delta North Monarchs Urge Justice and Action

Traditional rulers from Anioma extraction of Delta State, on Friday made a renewed and passionate appeal for the creation of Anioma State during a public hearing organized by the National Assembly Constitution Review Committee in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Obi of Obulu-Uno and Vice Chairman of the Delta North Traditional Rulers Forum, His Royal Majesty, Obi Henry Afamefuna Kikachukwu, described the call for Anioma State as a long-overdue demand grounded in justice, cultural identity, and political inclusion.

He reminded the committee that the agitation dates back 71 years, reflecting decades of persistent advocacy and what he described as the marginalization of the Anioma people.

“This is not a new request. It is a 71-year-old cry for justice, for recognition, and for a rightful place within the Nigerian federation,” he told the committee. “Our people are tired of existing without identity. Living without a distinct state is a form of modern slavery. It must end.”

The Anioma monarch emphasized that the demand is not a personal or isolated one but a united front involving all traditional rulers and key stakeholders across Anioma land.

He said their presence at the hearing was deliberate and symbolic of their collective resolve to be part of the constitutional reform process.

“Now, the agitation is getting stronger. That is why we consider it necessary to be physically present at this hearing, not just as monarchs, but as custodians of our people’s hope,” he said.

Obi Kikachukwu argued that the creation of Anioma State is not merely a political issue but one that touches on the dignity and cultural affirmation of the Anioma people, who he said have long felt sidelined within the current state structure.

“Our people will be free,” he declared. “The denial of statehood is not just administrative. It is a denial of our heritage, our identity, and our contribution to Nigeria.”

He made a direct appeal to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and members of the Constitution Review Committee: “We are making a passionate appeal that you oblige our request to create Anioma State. This is the will of our people.”

The hearing drew a significant delegation of Anioma traditional rulers, whose presence underscored the urgency and unity behind the demand.

As the session ended, the weight of their message lingered, a reminder that for the Anioma people, the fight for statehood is no longer a plea, but a declaration.