As the 2027 elections approach, Senator Ned Nwoko has latched onto the promise of Anioma State creation as a political strategy. His underlying claim is that his re-election is the only path to realizing this dream for the people of Delta North. However, a closer look at the facts reveals this as nothing more than a calculated ploy to mislead the people, manipulate their emotions, and secure another term in office.
The Reality of State Creation in Nigeria
Creating a new state in Nigeria is a highly complex and rigorous constitutional process, as outlined in Section 8(1) of the 1999 Constitution. No single senator—no matter how influential—can unilaterally create a state. The process involves several critical steps:
- A Formal Request Backed by the People – A new state can only be created if a formal request is made by the people and supported by a referendum in which at least two-thirds of the affected population votes in favor.
- Approval by State Assemblies – At least two-thirds of the 36 State Houses of Assembly must approve the request.
- Approval by the National Assembly – The request must pass with a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
- Presidential Assent – Ultimately, the President of Nigeria must sign the bill into law for the state to be created.
The Constitution further specifies that an Act of the National Assembly for state creation can only be passed if:
- At least two-thirds of the lawmakers representing the area demanding the state approve it in both the Senate and House of Representatives.
- The same approval is granted by the State House of Assembly and Local Government Councils in the affected area.
Despite these clear constitutional provisions, Nwoko has not initiated any of the necessary steps. Instead, he has merely presented a self-made map without input from the people, stakeholders, or the presidency. If the people of Delta North were never consulted, how can he claim to be championing their cause?
A False Promise for Political Gain
Historically, no democratically elected civilian president in Nigeria has successfully created a new state. State creation has always been the result of military interventions, not legislative proposals. Even under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, there has been no indication of any intention to create additional states. This raises a critical question: if the President himself has not prioritized state creation, how does Nwoko intend to single-handedly achieve it?
By pushing this narrative, Nwoko is not engaging in genuine legislative advocacy but in political deception. He is using the promise of Anioma State as a campaign tool, fully aware that he lacks the power to make it a reality. This is a textbook case of political manipulation—giving false hope to the people of Delta North while securing his own political future.
The Political Opportunism Behind His Defection
In a desperate bid to secure a second term, Nwoko recently defected from the PDP to the APC—a party he vehemently opposed during his Senate election. This sudden move is not driven by ideology or commitment to public service but by sheer political survival.
The PDP, which has long maintained a political rotation agreement, was unlikely to support his re-election at the expense of the Ika Federal Constituency. Realizing this, Nwoko jumped ship to the APC, hoping to gain political favor. His defection exposes his true character: a politician willing to abandon his party, principles, and the mandate of the people for personal ambition.
By aligning himself with the APC—the same party he once criticized—Nwoko has demonstrated a lack of loyalty and integrity. His actions confirm that his political pursuits are not about service but self-preservation. His promise of Anioma State is nothing more than a smokescreen—a deceptive ploy to manipulate public sentiment and secure another term in the Senate.
Conclusion
Ned Nwoko’s promise of Anioma State is a grand illusion designed to deceive the people of Delta North. The constitutional process for state creation is rigorous, requiring widespread consensus and presidential backing—none of which he has secured. His sudden defection to the APC further reveals his desperation and political opportunism.
The people of Delta North must see through this facade and recognize the pattern of deceit. Political leaders should be held accountable for their promises, and any attempt to manipulate the electorate with unrealistic pledges must be rejected. The 2027 elections should not be about empty promises but about genuine leadership and commitment to the people’s welfare.
Acknowledgment to Barr. Nwakina Cletus
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