Delta: Omene Renews Demand for Ethiope State as Call for Urhobo Unity Deepens
By Wilson Macaulay, Delta
The call for the creation of Ethiope State from the current Delta State has been powerfully renewed by Chief Dr. Wilson Omene, a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader and former Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area.
Omene emphasized that this push is not merely political ambition but a vital step for fair representation, equity, and sustainable development for the Urhobo ethnic nationality, the fourth largest in Nigeria.
Speaking in Mosogar, Omene lamented the reduced urgency and unity among Urhobo stakeholders, especially the youth, urging that the quest for Ethiope State must be embraced wholeheartedly by all Urhobo people. He called for unity among political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, and civil society as essential to the success of the state creation.
The creation of Ethiope State promises increased political participation, including greater senatorial representation and federal appointments tailored to Urhobo interests, along with development opportunities.
Legislatively, a bill to amend the 1999 Nigerian Constitution to create Ethiope State has passed the second reading in the House of Representatives. The bill proposes carving Ethiope State out of Delta State, creating the 37th state of the federation, with designated local government areas and a capital. The bill cites equity in the distribution of states across geopolitical zones and highlights the Urhobo Nation’s population, resources, and economic viability as justification for the state.
During an interaction with journalists in Mosogar, Omene emphasized that the quest for Ethiope State is not a new agitation, but one deeply rooted in the pursuit of equity, adequate political representation, and accelerated development for the Urhobo people — Nigeria’s fourth largest ethnic group.
He expressed concern over the declining enthusiasm among Urhobos toward championing their collective interest, warning that apathy could jeopardize the realization of a goal that past Urhobo leaders passionately fought for.
“The creation of Ethiope State is not just about redrawing boundaries; it’s about securing our political future and ensuring that the Urhobo nation gets its deserved place in the Nigerian federation,” Omene stated.
Reflecting on the efforts of Urhobo icons such as Olorogun Michael Ibru, Chief D.O.D. Dafinone, the Salubis, and the Okumagbas, Omene praised their patriotic legacies and urged the present generation to match their vision with action.
He noted that the establishment of a new state would enhance Urhobo representation at the federal level, open more opportunities in governance, and drive grassroots development.
Chief Omene concluded by encouraging all Urhobo sons and daughters—regardless of political affiliation—to unite under one voice and push for the realization of Ethiope State, saying, “This is not a partisan project; it’s a generational responsibility.
