The push for the creation of Anioma State has suffered a major setback following the withdrawal of the Asagba of Asaba, Professor Epiphany Azinge, from the technical committee set up to drive the process.
The monarch announced his withdrawal in a statement issued on Friday by his personal secretary, Jude Mgbeze.
Azinge said he remains “irreversibly committed” to the creation of Anioma State within its “historically recognised Anioma entity,” but explained that he could no longer continue in his role due to “irreconcilable differences” over the boundaries and territorial delineation proposed for the new state.
He also raised alarm over what he described as a “clandestine and delusional complicity” aimed at relocating the capital of the proposed state from Asaba, a move he strongly opposes.
“As the Traditional Ruler of Asaba, HRM, the Asagba of Asaba, cannot be seen to be presiding over the liquidation and decimation of his kingdom,” the statement read.
The monarch emphasised that his oath of office places a duty on him to protect the interests of the Asaba people, stressing that he would never be part of anything that compromises that responsibility.
“HRM’s Oath of Office enjoins him, at all times, to protect, preserve and defend the interest and wellbeing of Asaba people. Anything, whatsoever, that will lead HRM to compromise his oath of office will always be rejected.”
His withdrawal is expected to significantly reshape ongoing consultations and may deepen tensions over the future configuration of the proposed Anioma State.
