Iru People Deny Request for Anioma State Inclusion

The Iru People from Orhionmwon Local Government Area in Edo State issued a statement denying any request for inclusion in the proposed Anioma State. This declaration came in response to misleading claims circulating on social media, particularly a video suggesting that the Iru People were advocating for this inclusion.

The Odionwer Elder Council emphasized that the Iru People are an integral part of Edo State, with ancestral roots tracing back to the ancient Benin Kingdom, and are not part of the Igbo community, despite speaking the Ika language. The council categorically refuted the claims as false and attributed them to mischief-makers attempting to create confusion regarding the proposed Anioma State.

They also reminded the public that the creation of new states in Nigeria is solely the prerogative of the federal government, as outlined in the constitution. The Iru People reaffirmed their loyalty to the Edo State government and the royal majesty of the Oba of Benin.