Prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and respected academic, Professor Leroy Edozien, has called on Senators Ned Nwoko and Peter Nwaoboshi to reconcile their differences and work together in the collective interest of the Anioma people.
Prof. Edozien made the appeal on Monday while receiving a delegation from the Ugo-Anioma Movement led by its convener, Mr. Victor Sorokwu, during an advocacy visit to his residence.
The two senators have reportedly been at loggerheads since the buildup to the 2023 general elections, with tensions threatening to derail the region’s unity, particularly around the renewed push for the creation of Anioma State.
“I’ve made several efforts to mediate between Senators Nwoko and Nwaoboshi,” Edozien said. “Both leaders have their grievances, but when it comes to Anioma, we must find common ground and work together.”
Edozien, who once aspired to the governorship of Delta State under the APC, reiterated that his advocacy for Anioma predates party affiliations and is rooted in the broader vision of justice and regional equity.
“My support for Anioma State dates back to when Senator Ned Nwoko was in the PDP. This is not about political parties — it’s about what is right for our people. The movement for Anioma is rooted in the need to correct historical imbalances and ensure representation within the South-East,” he added.
The retired professor stressed that divisions among key political actors in Delta North have weakened the zone’s influence and risk derailing the momentum toward statehood.
He revealed that efforts were underway through the Delta North Progressives, a coalition working to reconcile estranged leaders and harmonise political strategies across the region.
“I even offered to travel to Abuja to arrange a private meeting between the two senators. But truly, they do not need anyone to mediate. Both leaders know the importance of unity. The Anioma agenda is bigger than any personal differences,” Edozien noted.
In his remarks, Victor Sorokwu, leader of the Ugo-Anioma Movement, appealed directly to Prof. Edozien to use his influence and credibility to help resolve the lingering feud.
“Following the Senate Zonal Public Hearings in Ikot-Ekpene and Enugu, we felt it was crucial to bring Anioma’s foremost voices together. This advocacy visit is part of our broader effort to unite all stakeholders behind the Anioma State project,” Sorokwu said.
As a show of appreciation, the Ugo-Anioma Movement conferred the honorary title of Patron of Ugo-Anioma on Professor Edozien for his long-standing dedication to the Anioma cause.
