The Chief Jackson Omenazu-led Ohanaeze Ndigbo has faulted the non-inclusion of Anioma state in the proposed 31 state submitted by the House of Reps Committee on Constitution Review.

It could be recalled that the list excluded Anioma state being projected by Senator Ned Nwoko.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Chief Thompson Chinenye Ohia, the National Publicity Secretary of the group, he said the omission was not merely an oversight but a calculated act rooted in a historical narrative that seeks to undermine the aspirations and rights of the Igbo people, particularly those of the Anioma clan in Delta State.

While condemning the stance of the Delta State government, Ohanaeze said, “It is both disheartening and troubling that agents of the Delta State Government appear indifferent to this laudable agenda that will propel Delta State to the forefront of development.”

The Igbo group asserted that “the drive for the establishment of Anioma State is a paramount aspiration supported unanimously by approximately 2,365 Igbo communities across the seven Igbo-speaking states.

“This movement reflects not only the collective will of our people but also a legitimate quest for self-determination and justice. The continuous disregard for our rightful claims will no longer be tolerated, and we will employ every resource at our disposal to ensure that Anioma State is recognized and created.

“In light of this pressing issue, we extend our unwavering support for the recent political maneuver of the Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko, the acknowledged leader of the Anioma people.

“His strategic defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) marks a pivotal step in galvanizing support for the actualization of Anioma State. We believe it is crucial that all political forces converge in solidarity to advance our cause, thereby reinforcing our collective strength as a people.

“To this end, Ohanaeze Ndigbo formally addresses the Presidency and the Chairman of the 10th National Assembly, the President of the Senate, Senator Dr. Godswill Akpabio, and the Rt Hon Speaker of the House of Representatives. We urge these authorities to recognize the creation of Anioma State as an urgent priority, aligned with the core interests of the Igbo Nation.

“Furthermore, we call upon the Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, to rise above political adversities and support the creation of Anioma State.

“By doing so, he will demonstrate to the entire nation that he is a true servant of his people, committed to their aspirations.

“We urge him to focus on legitimate governance and to empower figures like Senator Ned Nwoko, who embody the dignity and aspirations of the Igbo Nation, without undue interference.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterates that the establishment of Anioma State is a non-negotiable objective and will remain a forefront demand of our organization. In this light, we also wish to reaffirm our support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 reelection bid.

“Our backing and endorsement, however, hinge upon his administration’s commitment to realizing the creation of more states in the country, including Anioma State. Our desires and hopes must be treated with the urgency, respect, and seriousness they deserve.

“We stand resolute in our commitment to reviving and reclaiming our historical narrative—a narrative that encapsulates the essence of our identity, our rights, and our future.

“The time has come for our voices to be acknowledged and for our aspirations to be realized. We shall not relent until our demand for Anioma State is met, for this is not merely a regional request; it is a fundamental call for justice and equity within the Nigerian federation.”

Proposed state creation: Ohanaeze faults exclusion of Anioma, tasks Delta govt