Oganah says Anioma State’s realization in 2027 depends on Nwoko’s return.

By Dapo Akinrefon

Prince Tonnie Oganah serves as the media director for the Anioma State creation campaign. In this interview he discusses the prospects for establishing Anioma State, explains why Senator Ned Nwoko—who represents Delta North—deserves re‑election, and expresses confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s commitment to the project, among other points.

What’s the guarantee that APC is sincere with Anioma State creation? Is it not just a deceiving promise meant to deceive Anioma people?
It is not a deception. Both former and current APC chairmen have publicly affirmed the party’s commitment, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio—who has expressed strong support for the Igbo nation and Nigeria—has also endorsed the creation of Anioma State and praised Senator Ned Nwoko’s tireless efforts. He argues that the combined work of the 10th Senate, the House of Representatives, and the various state assemblies will secure the new state and help balance the federation, noting that Anioma, as a predominantly Igbo state, will promote equity and unity nationwide.

He adds that, among all the state‑creation requests in Igbo‑land, Anioma is the only one that adds value to the South‑East from the South‑South without generating resentment among South‑South residents, who are reportedly pleased to see the two regions linked.

Given the APC’s two‑thirds majority in both federal and state legislatures, he contends that it is only a matter of time before each geopolitical zone gains a new state, which would bolster the APC’s electoral prospects despite the challenges posed by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the defections of Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Why did the umbrella body of all Anioma people, IZU ANIOMA, openly endorse both Anioma State creation and the re‑election of Senator Nwoko when there are other Anioma sons and daughters in the race?
According to Oganah, the organization acted because every conscientious Anioma person should support the creation of Anioma State to fulfil the aspirations of their forebears, unlock prosperity for their community, and address the broader issue of Igbo representation across Nigeria’s thirteen states, thereby rebalancing a federation that currently places the Igbo at a disadvantage.

He says IZU ANIOMA endorsed Ned because he “stands head and shoulders above other contestants” with a vision that includes empowerment of the Anioma people, broader liberation, and an improved quality of life for humanity, especially the Black race. Oganah points to Nwoko’s legislative initiatives—ranging from malaria control to monthly allowances for widows and the unemployed, the promotion of the naira as the sole medium of exchange, the right of citizens to bear arms, and the provision of one‑month advance rent—as evidence of his distinct approach.

Oganah also notes Nwoko’s advocacy for the completion of key infrastructure projects: the proper decommissioning of the Ukpai Light Project, the finalisation of the Ogbawhu Uku water dam, the construction of the coastal road in Abbi, and the dredging of the River Niger at Asaba and Onitsha. He describes Nwoko as “the most decorated federal legislator in Nigeria,” adding that his colleagues have recognised his contributions with leadership positions.

He argues that legislative achievements can surpass those of former governors who once wielded unlimited power and resources, stating that “there’s nothing a governor achieved that a senator cannot achieve.”

Oganah concludes that supporting Ned Nwoko is essential for unlocking prosperity for all through the creation of Anioma State, and that the Anioma community has wasted valuable time debating ethnic identity and zonal affiliation.

Of all the state requests in Igbo land, Anioma is the only one bringing value addition to the South-East from the South-South without any acrimony from South-South people, who are happy and relieved to see that we join our kith and kin.

The post 2027: Anioma State actualisation tied to Nwoko’s return — Oganah appeared first on Vanguard News.