Ohanaeze former spokesman urges Anioma support for Nwoko’s senate return

ABUJA – Ahead of the 2026 senatorial primaries, former spokesman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chuks Ibegbu, has called on delegates from Delta State to support the return of Senator Ned Nwoko to the National Assembly. Ibegbu said Nwoko’s reelection would enable him to complete his “historic journey” toward the creation of Anioma State.

In a statement on Wednesday, Ibegbu emphasized that Anioma, as the proposed parity state for the South East, would benefit both the region and the Anioma people. He described Nwoko’s advocacy for the new state as a patriotic mission to correct historical injustices dating back to colonial administration.

I have been a student of history and realised the struggles of the founding fathers of Anioma land for the socio-political and economic integrity of Anioma people,” Ibegbu said. He noted that past efforts, including those by Premier Dennis Osadebey, were hindered by colonial policies, the civil war, and tragedies such as the Asaba massacre.

According to Ibegbu, Senator Nwoko has championed a bill for the creation of Anioma State, seeking to unite the people of the region with their kith and kin in the South East while addressing historical marginalization. “Anioma State as the parity state for the South East will be a win-win situation for the South East and Anioma land,” he added.

He warned that some opposition to the creation of Anioma State may be politically motivated and aimed at blocking Nwoko’s return to the Senate. “I challenge would-be delegates to the senatorial primaries to back Senator Ned Nwoko to return to the Senate come 2027,” Ibegbu urged.

Ibegbu also defended Nwoko against claims that he had not executed projects in Anioma land, clarifying that legislators attract federal and state support for development rather than directly implementing projects.

He appealed to Anioma lawmakers, local government chairmen, and stakeholders at all levels to actively support Nwoko’s reelection, stressing that the cause of Anioma State transcends personal or political affiliations.

“Whether you like Senator Nwoko or not is not the issue at stake now. What is at stake is a historical and generational duty for the Anioma people,” Ibegbu said.

Culled from punch