Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed disappointment on Friday over the absence of senators and key government officials from Igbo-speaking states at the Igbo Unification Movement held the previous day in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, the governor noted that aside from Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), no other senator or government functionary from the 13 Igbo-speaking states attended the high-profile gathering.

“I’m proud that the Senator representing Delta North is here among you people,” Oborevwori said. “But I was expecting other Igbo senators and government functionaries from across the Igbo-speaking states to be present at this ceremony, since it was meant to involve all Igbo-speaking states,” he lamented.

The event, aimed at fostering unity among the Igbo people regardless of geographic boundaries, drew traditional leaders, academics, and community stakeholders from across the Southeast and parts of the South-South.

Governor Oborevwori lauded the organisers of the movement for promoting unity and harmony among the Igbo. He emphasised the historic role of the Igbo in Nigeria’s development and described the unification initiative as a “good omen” for the region’s future.

In his remarks, Senator Ned Nwoko emphasised the cultural and ideological affinity between the Anioma people of Delta North and the broader Igbo community. “Anioma and Ndi Igbo are similar, sharing the same philosophy and ideals. We are all Igbo, wherever we are,” he said.

Senator Nwoko also revealed that discussions are ongoing among stakeholders to create an additional state for the Igbo as a matter of equity. He suggested Anioma as a prime candidate for the proposed state, citing its historical significance in the region.

Supporting this call, keynote speaker Prof. Timothy Uzodinma Nwala endorsed the unification movement and the creation of Anioma State. He stressed the need for inclusive recognition of all Igbo-speaking communities, asserting that unity in identity and purpose is vital for the progress of Ndi Igbo.