Senator Ned Nwoko has debunked claims that he is interested in becoming the governor of Anioma State should it be created.
The Senator representing Delta North senatorial district stated that his support for the state stems from a deep commitment to the welfare and progress of his constituents at the national level. He made this known when he met with Anioma stakeholders at a summit organized over the weekend in Asaba.
Senator Nwoko emphasized that he is committed to the growth of the Anioma people and believes that the governor of the state should come from the Ndokwa nation—a region that has been marginalized despite its economic contributions through oil production.
“My goal is to secure freedom for my people. The first governor of Anioma state should come from Ndokwa land. Despite being home to three oil-producing local government areas, the Ndokwa region remains neglected, with its environment suffering from severe degradation,” Senator Nwoko stated.
He highlighted the benefits of state creation, drawing a parallel to the establishment of Delta state from the former Bendel State, pointing out that statehood can drive development, as evidenced by Asaba’s transformation from a small village to a thriving city once it became the capital of Delta state.
Senator Nwoko also noted the political advantages of creating Anioma state, including increased representation in the Senate, House of Representatives, and state assembly.
During the summit, the Dein of Agbor, HRM Benjamin Keagborekuzi I, expressed his support for Ned Nwoko's stance on state creation.
According to him: “So long as it’s not an illegitimate quest and not intended to disintegrate the country, the agitation for Anioma State is in order and needs to be encouraged by all and sundry.”
The monarch, who was a special guest at the summit, emphasized that the agitation for the creation of Anioma State should not be politicized.
The stakeholder summit drew participants from all nine local government areas in the senatorial district.