Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, was a distinguished guest at the 2024 Otu- Oka-Iwu Week, a major event that gathers political leaders, traditional rulers, and cultural figures to discuss crucial issues impacting the Igbo people.
The theme of this year’s week-long celebration, “Strengthening Igbo Unity: The Quest for the Creation of a New State in the South-East,” served as a platform to address regional and national challenges while also exploring ways to foster greater unity and development within the Igbo community.
During his speech, Senator Nwoko underscored the need for unity among the Igbo, stressing that collective efforts are essential to achieving the region’s developmental goals and ensuring equitable political representation within Nigeria.
He noted that only through solidarity can the Igbo people achieve their aspirations for socio-economic, and political progress.
Senator Nwoko’s remarks focused on the urgent need for the creation of a new state in the South-East.
He highlighted that the current political structure does not adequately represent the diverse interests and developmental needs of the South-East, which has long been underserved.
He called for a concerted effort to push for the establishment of a new state to ensure that the Igbo people receive the attention and resources they deserve to flourish.
Beyond the broader call for a new South-East state, Senator Nwoko also addressed the specific issue of Anioma State, emphasizing that its creation is vital for the people of Delta North.
He expressed firm belief that the creation of Anioma state would promote political equity, enhance the socio-economic opportunities of the Anioma people, and contribute to the overall growth of the region.
“The creation of Anioma State is not just about fulfilling a political agenda,” Senator Nwoko explained.
“It is about giving our people the chance to have a stronger voice, access to better opportunities, and the ability to shape their destiny.
“This aligns with the larger vision of state creation in the South-East, as it will help ensure a more balanced, inclusive, and fair representation within Nigeria.”
The Senator further reiterated that the push for the creation of Anioma State is in line with the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Igbo unity and give the region a more solid foundation for sustainable development.
“He also noted that as political leaders and stakeholders, it is their responsibility to ensure that their communities are adequately represented and empowered.
Senator Nwoko’s contributions at the OTU Oka-Iwu Week were met with a positive response from participants, with many praising his advocacy for Anioma State and his call for Igbo unity.
The event also highlighted the importance of cultural celebrations and the role they play in fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose among the Igbo people.
The 2024 OTU Oka-Iwu Week concluded with renewed commitments to the ideals of unity, equity, and progress, with Senator Nwoko’s participation further solidifying his position as a key advocate for the advancement of the Igbo cause and the creation of Anioma State.
His ongoing efforts to promote the region’s development and ensure greater political inclusion for the people of Delta North remain central to his vision for a more just and prosperous Nigeria.