By Kenneth Orusi

Despite skepticism and criticism circulating online, the campaign for the creation of Anioma State continues to gain ground, bolstered by increasing grassroots support and coordinated advocacy efforts.

At the center of the push is Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, who has brought the cause to national attention through legislative action and consistent community engagement. His residence, popularly referred to as “Mount Ned,” has become a gathering point for supporters and advocacy groups rallying behind the call for statehood.

The proposal for Anioma State, which has been a subject of regional discourse for decades, is no longer seen as a passing political initiative but as a movement driven by demands for equity, representation, and historical redress.

In recent visits to Mount Ned, organizations like the Movement for the Emancipation of Anioma Nation (MEAN), led by Apostle Ayo Ashiedu, and the Sualueze Group, headed by Hon. Sualueze, expressed strong support for the initiative. They described the statehood effort as a long-overdue step toward justice for the Anioma people.

“We are not distracted by noise; we are focused on the goal,” said Hon. Sualueze, stressing that the campaign is rooted in strategy and widespread community involvement rather than political rhetoric.

These endorsements are part of a broader swell of backing from traditional leaders, youth organizations, professionals, and political stakeholders across Delta North and beyond. This growing coalition underscores the movement’s increasing legitimacy, even as detractors dismiss it as a diversion from more pressing issues.

Senator Nwoko has been at the forefront of the legislative effort, sponsoring the Anioma State Creation Bill (SB. 481). A public hearing is scheduled for July 4–5, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State—a significant step in the constitutional process required to establish a new state.

Criticism of the initiative, often limited to social media platforms, has focused on questioning its timing and purpose. However, advocates argue that state creation remains a constitutional mechanism to address historical imbalances and improve governance for marginalized communities.

For many, the push for Anioma State reflects a mature and inclusive political aspiration. It is a vision shaped over decades through community dialogue and cross-generational advocacy, not solely the result of one senator’s efforts.

While online opposition continues, the movement shows no signs of slowing. Delegations and advocacy groups continue to arrive at Mount Ned, united by a shared belief that Anioma is ready to take its place as Nigeria’s next state.

With the public hearing on the horizon, supporters remain focused on legislative progress and public engagement. For them, Anioma State is not just a dream—it is a goal within reach.