23/07/2025
Deputy Senate President, 90 Senators Back Anioma State Creation Bid
The campaign for the creation of Anioma State has received a major boost, with over 90 Senators of the National Assembly—including Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau—throwing their weight behind the initiative.
The strong backing comes as part of the ongoing constitutional amendment process, in which the proposal for Anioma State has been formally introduced as Senate Bill 481.
Leading the charge is Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District. On May 27, 2025, Senator Nwoko submitted a formal letter to the Senate President and fellow lawmakers, urging their support for the creation of Anioma State. He emphasized that the move would promote national development, equity, justice, and true federalism.
According to a document obtained by South East Punch, the Anioma State proposal has gained momentum across diverse sectors, drawing widespread support from lawmakers regardless of political or regional affiliations.
The document states:
“The creation of Anioma State as the sixth state in the South-East geopolitical zone is fast gaining overwhelming support nationwide. So far, over 90 Senators—well above the two-thirds constitutional threshold—have endorsed the motion.”
Among the high-profile supporters are:
• Sen. Jibrin Barau, Deputy Senate President
• Sen. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate Leader
• Sen. Abba Moro, Senate Minority Leader
• Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, former Edo State Governor
• Sen. Seriake Dickson, former Bayelsa State Governor
• Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, former Abia State Governor
• Sen. Victor Umeh, a key Southeast political figure
• Sen. Gbenga Daniel, former Ogun State Governor
• Sen. Ireti Kingibe, FCT Senator
• Sen. Simon Lalong, former Plateau State Governor
• Sen. Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North
Analysts say the strong Senate support—already exceeding the 67-vote threshold—marks a critical milestone in the bid to constitutionally recognize Anioma State. Observers believe that with growing backing in both legislative chambers and among stakeholders nationwide, the Anioma project has never looked more promising.