Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has appealed for calm after growing tension in Asaba over discussions about the proposed Anioma State and speculation that its capital might be moved from the city.
The Governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo, addressed Asaba indigenes who marched peacefully to Government House on Monday.
He explained that the creation of a new state and the choice of its capital cannot be decided by guesswork or individual interests, but must follow strict constitutional procedures involving memoranda, legislative input, and in some cases, a referendum.
Oborevwori assured the protesters that the concerns raised by the Asaba community had been noted and would be treated with seriousness. He stressed that no single person or group can unilaterally determine the capital of a proposed state.
He also revealed that leaders from Delta North, including lawmakers and local government chairmen, had already met and unanimously rejected any idea of taking the capital away from Asaba. He described Asaba as a fast-growing, safe, and strategically located city whose importance continues to expand.
Reaffirming his commitment to fairness and due process, the Governor thanked Asaba residents for their peaceful conduct and for consistently supporting the state.
Earlier, spokesperson for the protesters, Mr. Chike Ifesiokwu, said the demonstration became necessary following rumours that the capital might be relocated. He described such a move as backward and divisive, insisting that Asaba’s historical relevance and strategic position make it indispensable.
He also pointed to Asaba’s contributions to national leadership and its evolution into a calm, cosmopolitan urban centre. Ifesiokwu vowed that residents would not allow any attempt to undermine the city’s identity or diminish its standing.
