Why I am Seeking Amendment to Nigerian Constitution – Nwoko
By Barth Ozah
The senator representing the Delta North senatorial district at the national assembly, Prince Ned Nwoko has advanced the reasons why he is seeking amendment to the Nigerian constitution.
Speaking at a shareholders summit tagged ‘the renewed quest for the creation of Anioma state’ in Asaba at the weekend, Nwoko said his bill to amend the Nigerian constitution for the creation of Anioma state was in fulfilment of his campaign promises.
He noted that the quest for creation of Anioma state did not started with him but prayed he will actualized it before he leaves the senate.
“Governance is all about the people. The public office holders at all levels must understand they are there for the people. Anioma state for me is clearly defined, we have one tradition, culture, same food. I know our people have been clamouring for Anioma state and since you have elected me I will do what you want.
“I will speak for your interest as your senator. At the senate I was lucky to be chosen as member of elite committee known as constitutional amendment committee made up of one senator each from the 36 states and FCT.
“There is understanding that the president want to create one state from the southern part of the country, that is why I am pushing for Anioma state. What is important is to actualize Anioma state no matter the region it ceded to. I have taken the lead to complete the struggle started long ago and all of you here are about to make history.”
Nwoko explained that the bill for the creation of Anioma state has passed through the first reading and expressed optimism that by the end of this year it will scale the second reading, vowing to mobilize every shareholders for the public hearing when the time comes to show support for the bill.
“Let forget about the zoning for now what is important is the creation of Anioma state. The new state will bring development closer and it is for the benefit of the entire Delta state. When we have Anioma state we will develop our school curriculums to teach our language and culture in our schools.
“Another thing is to ensure we respect our traditional rulers because they are the custodians of our culture. We will make them to be respected like their counterparts in the northern part of the country.” He reiterated.
Nwoko however paid glowing tributes to the Obi of Aboh, Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko and Dein of Agbor, Denis Osadebay, the former premier of the Midwestern region who were the founding fathers of the struggle for the creation of Anioma state.
Various speakers at the summit which included the traditional rulers, opinion leaders, political office holders as well region leaders spoke in support of the bill for the creation of Anioma state.
The highlight of the event was a vote of confidence on senator Nwoko for his quality representations moved by Rt. Hon. Ossai N. Ossai seconded by Dr. Roy Edozien, and was followed by thunderous ovation.