Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has accused Senator Ned Nwoko of misleading the public over the proposed creation of Anioma State, while also questioning the timing of current discussions on state creation amid the ongoing legislative session. Okowa emphasized that any decision on the new state must reflect the collective will of the people and be guided by proper consultation, not political maneuvering. He made these remarks during a meeting with All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Oshimili South Local Government Area, where he is vying for a senatorial seat. The video of his speech was shared on Facebook on Wednesday by Osaai Ovie Success, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State Governor.
Okowa dismissed claims that he opposes the creation of Anioma State, stating that no true son or daughter of Anioma is against the idea. He clarified that the Anioma State being advocated must include the nine local government areas in Delta North, located within the South-South geopolitical zone, with Asaba as its capital. He stressed that the proposed state must be built on consensus and not driven by individual agendas or misinformation spreading on social media. The former governor warned that raising the issue at this stage, when the legislative calendar is already nearing its end, amounts to deceiving the public.
He expressed deep concern over attempts to alter Asaba’s status as the capital of Delta State, calling such moves misguided and disrespectful to the historical struggle that led to its establishment. “An Asaba daughter fought for us, and today we have the headquarters of Delta state in Asaba,” Okowa said. He added that anyone who tries to remove Asaba as the capital does not understand its significance and is acting against common sense. He affirmed that Asaba continues to grow and thrive, and no one should attempt to undermine its importance.
Okowa emphasized the need for inclusive consultation, urging stakeholders to engage with the people before making any decisions. He warned that believing one knows everything without seeking public input will lead to wrong decisions. He reiterated that state creation is a serious matter that requires broad agreement and cannot be rushed. “If you know the timetable of the legislators, you will know that we are already a quarter to go,” he said. “Talking about state creation now obviously is trying to deceive you. We don’t want any deceit.”
He concluded by reaffirming that Anioma State will be created in due time, but only through a collective decision by the people and the government. The process, he said, must be transparent, inclusive, and guided by the will of the majority. As the debate continues, Okowa’s stance underscores the need for unity and careful planning in any future state creation initiative in Nigeria.
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