Ika Igbo-speaking communities in Edo State have expressed firm support for the proposed creation of Anioma State and its designation within Nigeria’s South-East geopolitical zone, insisting that they must be included in the new state if approved.
The declaration was made at a well-attended meeting of leaders, elders, youths and key stakeholders held in Igbanke, Edo State. The gathering was convened under the leadership and coordination of Apostle Azuka Okah.
Speaking under the platform of The Voice of the Indigenous Ika Igbo Initiative in Edo State, the communities said their position stems from years of perceived neglect and marginalisation affecting Ika Igbo-speaking settlements including Iru, Igbanke, Ogbagie, Igbo-Giri, Owa Ri Uzo, Otobaye, Oghada, Ute-Oha-Eze, Ekpon and other indigenous communities within Edo State.
They argued that recognising Anioma as part of the South-East would help address longstanding concerns of exclusion while fostering fairness, unity and balanced development. According to them, despite their cultural, linguistic and historical ties with Anioma communities in Delta State and the broader Igbo population in the South-East, they have remained politically and administratively disadvantaged within Edo State across successive administrations.
The communities highlighted infrastructural challenges in their areas, including poor road networks, limited healthcare services, underfunded schools, inadequate access to potable water and minimal government-backed development initiatives. They maintained that these conditions contrast sharply with the contributions and taxes generated from their communities.
They further stated that their underdevelopment is not due to a lack of human or economic capacity but rather political exclusion and limited participation in decision-making processes. According to them, their concerns are often disregarded, and their identity undermined despite being indigenous to the state.
Reaffirming their historical and cultural connections, the Ika Igbo people noted shared language, customs, festivals and traditional institutions with Anioma communities in Delta State. They contended that past colonial boundary adjustments and political realignments placed them under Edo State’s administration, resulting in what they described as a longstanding disconnect from their cultural and political roots.
They emphasised that their demand to join Anioma State is motivated by a desire for equity, inclusion and sustainable growth. Zoning the proposed state to the South-East, they said, would enhance political participation and enable development policies suited to their unique circumstances.
“Anioma State creation would provide an opportunity to correct historical injustices suffered by Anioma and Ika Igbo communities scattered across Delta and Edo States. State creation is not just about drawing new boundaries, but about restoring dignity, self-worth, and a sense of ownership in governance. It would bring government closer to the grassroots and make development a priority rather than an afterthought,” they stated.
The communities also recognised the advocacy of Ned Nwoko, Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District at the National Assembly, commending his efforts and engagement on the Anioma State proposal. They described his campaign for the creation of the state as consistent and forward-looking.
Expressing optimism about the project’s prospects, they called on the Federal Government, the National Assembly and other relevant authorities to consider their position and the broad support for the creation of Anioma State, including the incorporation of Ika Igbo communities in Edo State.
In his remarks, Apostle Azuka Okah urged unity, peaceful advocacy and constructive engagement with appropriate authorities. He advised youths to remain calm and avoid violence, encouraging lawful and strategic efforts in pursuing the demand. He stressed that the push for Anioma State requires collective resolve, discipline and sustained commitment.
