THE traditional ruler of Ubulubu kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty. Obi Charles Ikechukwu Abiagom, has urged the Federal Government to create Anioma State for the people of Delta North Senatorial District to join their brothers in the South East.
The Royal Father recalled that in the eighties, they usually gather more often at the Tafewa Balewa Square in Lagos Island, and the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, to campaign in order to facilitate the creation of “Anioma State”, which painfully never materialised after extremely intensive drive and momentous campaign.
Obi Abiagom stated that, then, they had a specially-designed Anioma “Akwa-Ocha” fabric with Anioma clearly inscribed on it, as a symbol of love, unity and peace among the Anioma people and it is a national costume to be cherished at all times.
According to Obi Abiagom, “During one of the symposiums to discuss about the creation of “Anioma State,” somebody in the group told us how he was to be named the “Governor of Anioma State” which unfortunately, was not announced by the military in power”.
“The man had been tipped privately to be appointed the “Governor of Anioma State” but the announcement had to be stalled to the disappointment of not only the man, but to the people of the Anioma nation”.
In his words, “I am greatly optimistic of having “Anioma State” created, as witnessed by the massive turn-out and tremendous presence and support of the Anioma people at home and in the diaspora, together with eminent scholars and distinguished Obis, traditional chiefs, political gurus and dignitaries (at both the region and federal levels) who have been in this trajectory for the demand of “Anioma State” with pride and dignity”.
The Ubulubu King pointed out that they were aware that the constituents of the proposed “Anioma State” are the major Igbo-speaking ethnicities in the sub-region.
He admonished the people to join hands to see that “Anioma State” is created before talking of where the capital would be located.
While addressing his people, Obi Abiagom pointed out that the Anioma cultural festival, under the umbrella of the Organization For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) was an annual event designed to bring Anioma people together in tune with the present day reality and to sensitize them people on the essence of protecting their identity.
The monarch described the event as equally a drive to revitalize the cultures of the Anioma people in all ramifications to pave the way for the opportunity to further develop, sustain and preserve their rich cultural heritages in dance, music, fashion and creative arts from extinction.
Obi Abiagom narrated his excitement when he attended for the first time the Anioma cultural festival at Asaba, recently, and he saw with delight the re-emergence of the political will and dedication towards the creation of “Anioma State”.
