Prospects of Obolo, Bori States Excite Advocates

The demands for the creation of Obolo and Bori states have sparked waves of enthusiasm and heated opposition across the Niger Delta, as proponents and critics clashed during public hearings held by the National Assembly’s Committee on Constitutional Review in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States.
For the Obolo people spread across riverine communities in Rivers and Akwa Ibom States the creation of Obolo State represents a long-cherished dream of self-determination, political inclusion, and economic empowerment.
Advocates said the new state would not only amplify their voice in national discourse but also enable the community to control its resources, attract investments, and implement locally relevant development policies.
“The creation of Obolo State is about equity, dignity, and opportunity,” said Comrade Victor Ichulo, Director of Media Operations for the Ijaw Youth Council.
“With the development of OML 13, we can build a stronger economy, create jobs for our youth, and ensure our women and men are empowered.”
But the push for Obolo State has not come without fierce resistance—particularly from the Ekid people in Eket, Akwa Ibom. During a tense National Assembly hearing in Ikot Ekpene on July 4, what should have been a civic engagement forum turned confrontational, as Ekid groups clashed with Obolo representatives, disrupting presentations and raising questions about boundary integrity and historical ownership of contested territories.
“They came not to present their own proposal, but to tear down ours,” Ichulo lamented. “This opposition reveals why Obolo State is not just necessary, but urgent. Our people deserve to manage their affairs without harassment or manipulation.”
The tension resurfaced during a follow-up hearing in Calabar, Cross River State, on July 19. Despite a “massive turnout” of Ekid representatives some allied with Ibibio factions the Obolo-Ijaw delegation stood its ground, accusing their opponents of attempting to rewrite history and stoke ethnic divisions.
“Obolo land is gazetted. Our leaders are certified. Our communities are recognized,” said Ichulo, who also serves as spokesman of the Ibeno Revolution Alliance.
“We won’t be bullied by those who fear losing economic privilege.”
Critics of Obolo State creation, including the Ekid Peoples Union, argue the proposed state lacks geographical contiguity and poses risks of boundary conflict. However, supporters counter that similar concerns didn’t hinder the creation of states like Bayelsa and Rivers.
“States are not created to satisfy territorial egos, but to meet the needs of marginalized people,” said Senator Dickson Seriake, who chaired the constitutional review session. He described the disruptions as proof of the Obolo people’s historical grievances and right to self-governance.
Meanwhile, advocates for the proposed Bori State carved out of Rivers State also made a compelling case at the Cross River hearing.
Represented by HRH Dr. Otugot Awoh and supported by federal lawmaker Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Deekor, the Bori State Movement emphasized the cultural, administrative, and economic rationale for the creation of a state to serve the South East Senatorial District.
“Bori State will strengthen federal balance and enhance grassroots development,” said Hon. D.K. Badom, President of the Bori State Movement.
“This is about giving voice and visibility to historically overlooked communities.”
As the constitutional review process continues, both Obolo and Bori State advocates say they are committed to peaceful dialogue but warn that attempts to suppress legitimate aspirations could inflame tensions in the already fragile Niger Delta.
“We are not asking for war,” said Ichulo. “We are asking for justice.”