In a renewed push for inclusion and cultural recognition, prominent leaders and traditional rulers from the Igbanke community paid a solidarity visit to Senator Ned Munir Nwoko at his country home in Idumuje-Ugboko on Friday.
The delegation, led by Amb. Chief Jude Ogbekile and His Royal Highness Boba Igiebor, Obi of Idumuodin, reaffirmed their unwavering support for the creation of Anioma State and made a passionate appeal for Igbanke to be part of the proposed new state.
The visit is the latest in a series of mobilizations backing Senator Nwoko’s ongoing advocacy for Anioma State at the National Assembly.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Amb. Chief Ogbekile emphasized that Igbanke, though geographically located in Edo State, is culturally and ethnically part of the Anioma (Igbo) family.
> “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,” Ogbekile stated.
HRH Boba Igiebor echoed the sentiment, affirming the community’s strong identification with the Anioma heritage and the need for administrative realignment to reflect their cultural roots.
> “Our people know who they are. We know our roots. Anioma State will help restore that sense of belonging,” the monarch said.
The delegation also presented an e-flyer boldly declaring “IGBANKE IS NOT BINI, Igbankes Are Igbo Community in Edo State,” symbolizing a united front in their demand for inclusion and recognition within Anioma State.
This visit builds on growing momentum for Anioma State, which saw similar expressions of support from Igbanke and Obazagbon monarchs in November 2024.
Community leaders continue to argue that the creation of Anioma State will deliver long-overdue administrative autonomy, ensure equitable representation, and accelerate regional development.
With the Anioma State agitation gaining traction, the call from Igbanke underscores a critical dimension of the movement: it is not just about new boundaries, but about cultural identity, justice, and inclusion.
As Senator Ned Nwoko’s efforts gather national attention, the voices from Igbanke add further weight to a cause that is rapidly transforming into a defining issue in the national restructuring discourse.
