Published by Naijajistreal96
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called for calm and understanding after Asaba indigenes staged a peaceful demonstration in response to circulating rumours that the proposed Anioma State capital could be relocated. The protest, which gathered a significant number of concerned residents, was driven by fears that Asaba might lose its expected position in the long-discussed creation of Anioma State. The concerns quickly spread across the city, prompting community leaders and residents to seek official clarification from the State Government.
Addressing the demonstrators at Government House, Governor Oborevwori—represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo—reassured the people that no decision had been made concerning the location of a state capital, adding that such a process does not rely on speculation or the opinion of any single individual. According to the Governor, the creation of a new state in Nigeria is constitutional, systematic, and participatory, involving various layers of legislative approvals, national consultations, and in many cases, a referendum in which the people must express their collective will.
Hon. Erijo praised the Asaba indigenes for conducting themselves peacefully, describing the demonstration as an admirable show of unity that reflects the community’s strong sense of identity and responsibility. He emphasized that their concerns were legitimate and welcomed, noting that government exists to listen to the people it serves. He assured the demonstrators that the administration remains committed to transparency, fairness, and the protection of the interests of every ethnic group within Delta State.
Governor Oborevwori’s message was clear: no individual, group, or political actor has the power to decide the capital of a proposed state on their own. Any such decision would go through constitutional channels, including deliberations by lawmakers, public consultations and, if required, a broad referendum to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard. He stated that governance must always be rooted in due process, not rumours or assumptions.
Responding on behalf of the Asaba community, Mr. Chike Ifesiokwu expressed appreciation to the Governor for granting immediate audience to the protesters and for addressing their concerns directly rather than allowing tensions to escalate. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Asaba people to maintain peace, unity, and dialogue, noting that their demonstration was not an act of aggression but a reminder that the community remains actively engaged in matters affecting its future.
He also thanked the leadership of Delta State for keeping communication channels open and urged the government to continue providing clarity whenever sensitive issues arise, particularly those tied to identity, heritage, and the political future of the region. According to him, Asaba indigenes stand firmly for justice and fairness and will always embrace peaceful engagement as a tool for resolving concerns.
The interaction between the government and the protesters reflects a renewed spirit of democratic participation in the state, showing that constructive dialogue is still possible even in moments of uncertainty. While the rumours surrounding the proposed Anioma State capital caused temporary tension, the prompt response from the Governor helped restore calm and confidence among the people.
As discussions around state creation continue nationwide, many believe that this incident underscores the importance of involving host communities in every stage of such processes. Residents of Asaba are now hopeful that any future decisions will be guided by objectivity, fairness, and sincerity, ensuring that the dreams of the Anioma people are realized without unnecessary conflict or speculation.
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