Former Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has criticised Ned Nwoko over his advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, accusing him of attempting to align the proposed state with the South-East and undermine Asaba as its capital.

Speaking during a meeting with All Progressives Congress stakeholders in Oshimili South Local Government Area as part of consultations ahead of the 2027 Senate race, Okowa stated that people of Delta North prefer the proposed Anioma State to remain within the South-South geopolitical zone rather than being merged with the South-East.

Addressing what he described as widespread misconceptions, Okowa said there is broad support among Anioma people for state creation, but insisted it should comprise the nine local government areas and retain Asaba as its administrative headquarters.

In an apparent swipe at Nwoko, whom he intends to challenge for the Delta North senatorial seat, Okowa criticised efforts he described as misguided attempts to alter the status of Asaba, noting that the city has historically served as the capital and continues to expand rapidly.

He also faulted the approach to the Anioma State campaign, describing it as lacking adequate consultation with stakeholders. According to him, any such initiative must reflect the collective will of the people rather than being driven by an individual.

Okowa further questioned the timing of the agitation, suggesting it may be misleading given the current legislative calendar, and emphasised that any eventual creation of Anioma State must emerge from a unified position shared by the people and the state leadership.