From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
Senator Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta North) has urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to leverage his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to advocate for the creation of Anioma State, a long-standing aspiration of the Anioma people.
Nwoko, who left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC in January 2025, welcomed Oborevwori’s move, noting it aligns with former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s defection to the APC on Wednesday, April 23.
In a statement titled “A New Dawn for Anioma Statehood” issued on Thursday, April 24, Nwoko described the political shift as a timely opportunity to advance constitutional reforms, particularly the establishment of Anioma State.
“This is not just about party lines,” he said. “It is about righting historical wrongs and securing a future of inclusion, equity, and development for the Anioma people.”
Nwoko highlighted that Oborevwori’s and Okowa’s defections strengthen the APC’s resolve to create Anioma State, a goal long supported by the party.
“The APC has long recognised the need to create Anioma State. Your arrival only strengthens the political will needed to push this through,” he told Oborevwori, urging him to prioritise this as a national imperative.
He called on the governor to move beyond past partisan politics and lead with conviction. “This is your moment to lead with clarity,” Nwoko said. “Anioma deserves its own identity, its own voice, and its own developmental path.”
He also endorsed the creation of a New Delta State, arguing both proposals address structural imbalances hindering governance, infrastructure, and representation.
Nwoko concluded by aligning the Anioma agenda with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” vision, urging Oborevwori to ensure Delta State leads Nigeria’s constitutional transformation. “This is the golden hour for Anioma. Governor, we count on you to lead us there,” he said.