Akpabio Backs Creation of Anioma State, Names Asaba as Proposed Capital

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has declared support for the proposed creation of Anioma State, adding fresh political backing to the long-running agitation in Delta North.

POLITICS NIGERIA reports that the proposal, which has been before the National Assembly for years, is currently being driven by Ned Nwoko.

The move is aimed at increasing state representation in the South-East region through the creation of a new state carved out of Delta.

Akpabio spoke on Wednesday in Asaba during the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Zonal Congress.

Addressing party members and stakeholders, he made it clear that he sees no issue with the demand for a new state from the area.

He also outlined how the arrangement would work if approved. According to him, Asaba would serve as the capital of the proposed Anioma State, while Delta State would relocate its capital to Warri.

The Senate President insisted that the idea should not create fear among Nigerians. He said more states would naturally open up more opportunities for growth and development across regions.

He said, “If that is the only demand from the South-South for state creation, then I should be proud to support it.

“For Anioma State, the capital will be in Asaba; then the capital of Delta State proper will be in Warri. That’s not a problem.

“I don’t think we should be afraid because the more states we have, the more development. Assuming it passes through the various Houses of Assembly, it means we are going to have one additional state.

“It is definitely going to be another broom and progressives from the South-Eastern part of Nigeria.”

The creation of new states in Nigeria requires a rigorous constitutional process. It involves approval by the National Assembly, endorsement by a majority of state Houses of Assembly, and final presidential assent.