In the complex political landscape of Imo State, Nigeria, the actions of the late Senator Francis Arthur Nzeribe has had a profound and enduring impact. Known for his significant maverick political influence and strategic maneuvers, Nzeribe was central to reshaping the senatorial landscape of the state, specifically with the inclusion of Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta into the Orlu zone from Owerri zone. This redistricting aimed at consolidating power and resources notably affected the political and economic dynamics within the state, particularly disadvantaging the Owerri zone.
Senator Nzeribe, hailing from Oguta, utilized his political clout to advocate for the excision of Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta from the Owerri zone to create the new Orlu zone with Oguta inclusive. This move was not merely a matter of geographical realignment but a calculated effort to increase Orlu’s political weight and influence within Imo State, by excising the oil and gas-rich areas from the Owerri zone. By extending Orlu zone’s boundaries to include these oil-rich areas, Nzeribe ensured an influx of political and economic resources that have bolstered Orlu’s standing and significantly shifted the state’s political balance.
The decision to excise Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta from the Owerri zone has had lasting repercussions. Politically, Owerri’s influence diminished as it lost vital oil and gas-rich areas and reducing its representation in both state and federal legislative assemblies. This reduction in political clout weakened Owerri zone’s position in state negotiations and decreased its ability to influence regional policies.
Economically, the impact was equally significant. The loss of Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta deprived Owerri of substantial revenue previously derived from these regions’ oil operations. This diversion of resources stunted economic growth in Owerri zone.
The redistricting efforts led by Nzeribe have created a lasting legacy of imbalance that continues to affect the socio-economic landscape of Imo State. Owerri’s diminished economic prospects and political leverage remain pressing issues, fueling ongoing discontent and calls for administrative restructuring.
Also, the expansion of the Orlu zone through the creation of additional Local Government Areas (LGAs) from the old Nkwerre division, orchestrated by Dr. Walter Ofonagoro, significantly increased the political weight of Orlu in Imo State. This restructuring drew internal criticism, particularly regarding the political displacement of Owerri zone.
The increase in LGAs in Orlu not only bolstered its representation in state and federal affairs but also resulted in a disproportionate allocation of resources, thereby intensifying the political imbalance between the zones. Orlu’s newfound dominance overshadowed the political leverage of Owerri, leading to its marginalization in state affairs. With more LGAs, Orlu gained access to a larger share of state and national resources.
The administrative increase in the number of LGAs has provided Orlu with greater influence over state legislation and policies. This enhanced influence has often come at the expense of Owerri’s needs and priorities, leaving it at a strategic and economic disadvantage. The apparent favoritism towards Orlu has exacerbated zonal tensions and fostered resentment among the populations in marginalized zones like Owerri. This disparity has led to social and political instability, which is detrimental to the state’s overall harmony and development.
Call for New State Creation
Today, the existing political and administrative structure has bred significant bitter regional disparities, with the Owerri zone frequently finding itself on the less favorable end of political influence. The current state arrangement, dominated by Orlu, leaves little room for Owerri to maneuver or advocate effectively for its relevance. This situation underscores the urgent need for restructuring through the creation of a new state that separates the Owerri zone from the closely related Okigwe and Orlu zones.
Historical and cultural ties significantly influence the governance dynamics within zones. Okigwe and Orlu, sharing deep familial bonds and a common heritage, claim unconfirmed descent from Nri, reinforcing their kinship. Such a background suggests that a unified administration for these two zones might lead to more cohesive governance. In contrast, Owerri does not share such kinship with Okigwe and Orlu, which implies that a separate state would allow for governance that better aligns with its unique cultural and social priorities.
The ongoing marginalization that Owerri experiences under the present state configuration are well-documented and widely recognized. The dominance of Orlu has not only stifled Owerri’s political development but also led to conflicts over land and power. Establishing a new state would provide Owerri with the autonomy necessary to pursue tailored developmental and political strategies, thereby fostering a fairer distribution of resources.
Administratively, a new state would enhance governmental efficiency by realigning boundaries to match the socio-cultural realities of these zones. This restructuring would improve service delivery and governmental responsiveness, addressing the specific needs of each region more effectively. With its own state, Owerri could capitalize on its economic potentials and confront its challenges directly, without the interference of a power structure skewed in favor of another region.
Historically, the manipulation of boundaries, as seen in the inclusion of towns like Oguta, Umuapu, Umuagwo, and Mgbirichi into Orlu zone, has only served to exacerbate divisions. The actions of the late Arthur Nzeribe, who influenced such changes, might have had foresight, but his actions have given Orlu zone undue dominance and led to a situation where Owerri’s assets have been pilfered and its interests consistently overlooked.
The need for a new state is further emphasized by the long standing kinship between Okigwe and Orlu, which has manifested in a united front that often disadvantages Owerri, especially in matters of political and economic significance. The establishment of a state for Okigwe and Orlu, based on their intertwined histories and mutual support, would allow them to pursue a joint agenda without undermining Owerri’s interests.
Creating a new state is not merely about administrative convenience; it’s about rectifying historical wrongs and ensuring equitable development across all regions. The ongoing discussions, often dismissed as futile, must be recognized as essential steps towards achieving the autonomy necessary to address these systemic issues. As Owerri seeks to forge its path, the creation of a new state emerges not only as a viable solution but as a crucial step toward ensuring its survival and prosperity within the larger Nigerian federation.
Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
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