Former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusanya, has stated that Asaba meets every criterion required to remain the capital if the proposed Anioma State becomes a reality.
He made the clarification while reacting to rumours suggesting that the capital of the proposed Anioma State might be relocated to another city instead of Asaba, which currently serves as the capital of Delta State.
The Asagba-in-Council, after its weekly meeting chaired by the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, also dismissed the social media reports, firmly opposing any attempt to sideline Asaba as the capital of the proposed state.
Onwusanya noted that Asaba has a long history as a peaceful and strategic administrative centre dating back to the era of the Royal Niger Company. He maintained that the city is even better positioned today to serve as the capital of Anioma State.
He warned those allegedly working behind the scenes according to reports circulating online to deprive Asaba of its rightful place, advising them to desist or be prepared to face the consequences of their divisive actions.
Commenting on the growing agitation for Anioma State with a capital elsewhere, Onwusanya urged leaders across the Anioma region to intervene and rein in those spreading such ideas, describing them as selfish, clannish, and opposed to progress.
The former Speaker commended the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Azinge, SAN, for his consistent advocacy toward the creation of Anioma State. He also appealed to all proponents of the proposed state to act with caution and stand firmly by the long-established position that Asaba should remain the capital.
Onwusanya further praised the Asagba-in-Council, Delta North lawmakers, and local government chairmen for taking a clear stance against attempts to alter the status quo.
