Former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, has urged caution over growing calls for the creation of Anioma State, warning against what he described as “social media hype” surrounding the issue.
He made the remarks during a visit to Ukwuani nation as part of consultations tied to his reported interest in the Delta North senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections, a position currently held by Ned Nwoko.
Speaking to supporters, Okowa emphasized the importance of collaboration in governance, noting that effective representation at the National Assembly requires alignment with state leadership. He stressed that a senator cannot operate in isolation if meaningful development is to be attracted to constituents.
Addressing the long-standing agitation for Anioma State, Okowa reaffirmed that the vision shared by regional leaders places the proposed state within the South-South geopolitical zone, with Asaba as its capital. However, he cautioned that state creation is not an immediate priority for the Federal Government, describing the process as complex and unlikely in the short term.
In comments widely interpreted as a response to ongoing advocacy efforts, Okowa warned against individual-driven campaigns, insisting that any push for state creation must be collective and strategic. He encouraged stakeholders to focus less on public rhetoric and more on grassroots engagement and unity.
He also advised constituents to be wary of online narratives, arguing that sustainable political achievements are built through coordinated effort and broad-based support rather than media visibility alone.
His remarks come as political positioning intensifies in Delta North ahead of the 2027 elections, with debates growing over the future direction of representation and development priorities in the district.
