The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has described the creation of Anioma State as a historical necessity rather than a political convenience, stressing that it serves as a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to justice, equity, and true federalism.
In a statement titled “Anioma State is a Test of Justice, a Moment for History”, UNIEC, through its Director General Justice Alpha Ikpeama and National Director of Media and Publicity Prof. Obasi Igwe, emphasized that Nigeria now stands at a critical juncture. The creation of Anioma State, they said, represents a defining national decision with the potential to correct long-standing structural imbalances.
UNIEC highlighted the renewed legislative momentum for the project, publicly affirmed under Godswill Akpabio’s leadership and actively driven by Senator Ned Nwoko, noting that the initiative goes beyond mere constitutional procedure. “The creation of Anioma State is a litmus test of Nigeria’s sincerity about justice, equity, and true federalism. This is not political convenience—it is a historical necessity,” the elders stated.
For decades, the Anioma people, culturally, linguistically, and historically aligned with the Igbo nation, have lived in an arrangement that has neither fully reflected their identity nor adequately addressed their developmental needs. According to UNIEC, their call for a distinct federating unit is grounded in dignity and inclusion, not division. Ignoring this demand perpetuates injustice.
The council also emphasized that the proposed designation of Asaba as the capital of Anioma State and Warri as the capital of a restructured Delta State is strategic and symbolic. Asaba represents cultural and political identity, while Warri represents industrial capacity and administrative efficiency. “This is not a zero-sum arrangement; it is a model of balance Nigeria desperately needs,” UNIEC said.
Urging the government to act without delay, UNIEC warned that procedural hesitations risk deepening distrust and perpetuating inequities. “Every delay reinforces the perception that some regions must continually negotiate for recognition, while others take it for granted,” they noted.
UNIEC concluded that Anioma State is not a favor but a long-overdue right. Granting it would demonstrate Nigeria’s ability to act with fairness, courage, and historic redemption. “The time is not tomorrow. The time is now,” they affirmed.
