Igbanke Leaders Strengthen Support for Anioma State, Seek Place in the New State’s Formation

The country home of Senator Ned Munir Nwoko in Idumuje-Ugboko once again hosted a notable visit on Friday, as traditional rulers and leaders from the Igbanke community paid a solidarity call to the Senator.

Led by Amb. Chief Jude Ogbekile and HRH Boba Igiebor, Obi of Idumuodin, the delegation came to reaffirm their unwavering support for the creation of Anioma State and to emphasize their deep desire for inclusion in the proposed state.

The visit is part of a growing movement for the creation of Anioma State, a cause championed by Senator Ned Nwoko in the upper chamber. Amb. Chief Jude Ogbekile, speaking on behalf of the Igbanke community, conveyed their continued support, emphasizing that the people of Igbanke are united in their belief that the creation of Anioma State will bring much-needed progress and empowerment to their people.

Ogbekile emphasized that the people of Igbanke though geographically situated in Edo State are culturally and ethnically part of the Anioma (Igbo) identity. “We are Igbo people in Edo State. Igbanke is not Bini. Our place is with Anioma, and we are here to restate our commitment to that reality,” he said.

HRH Boba Igiebor, Obi of Idumuodin, echoed similar sentiments, noting the shared resolve across the region for the state’s creation. “Our people know who they are. We know our roots. Anioma State will help restore that sense of belonging,” he said.

The delegation also presented an e-flyer bearing the inscription “IGBANKE IS NOT BINI — Igbankes Are Igbo Community in Edo State,” reinforcing their appeal for inclusion in the new state.

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The visit follows a similar show of solidarity in November 2024, when monarchs from the Igbanke and Obazagbon communities also lent their support to the Anioma State movement. Both monarchs and community leaders have consistently stressed the importance of administrative autonomy for the Anioma people, believing it will lead to better representation and accelerated development.