The truth needs to be told without fear or favour.
The political landscape in Owerri Zone of Imo State has been marred by a persistent issue: the propensity of some of its leaders to sell out to other zones for personal gain. This recurring betrayal has undermined the zone’s ability to secure the governorship despite its electoral and political strengths. The consequences of such self-serving actions are far-reaching, affecting not only the immediate political outcomes but also the long-term development and unity of the zone.
The most glaring issue is the lack of altruistic interest among Owerri Zone’s political leaders. These leaders often prioritize their personal ambitions over the collective good of their community. Rather than mounting a serious challenge for the governorship, they readily accept subordinate roles, thereby perpetuating a cycle of dependency and marginalization. This behavior has earned Owerri Zone a reputation for playing second fiddle to other geopolitical zones, a position that has only deepened its political relegation.
An inferiority complex further exacerbates this problem. Many political actors in Owerri Zone are plagued by self-doubt, leading to a disoriented approach to power dynamics. This psychological barrier has allowed other zones, particularly Orlu and Okigwe, to dominate the state’s political arena. Despite producing governors twice since the state’s inception, Owerri Zone’s leaders have failed to complete a full term in office. This unfortunate history is a testament to the deep-seated issues of confidence and cohesion within the zone.
The internal wrangling caused by micro-zoning is another significant obstacle. The insistence on micro-zoning, the idea that the next governor should come from specific parts of the zone, has sown seeds of division rather than unity. This internal discord prevents the zone from presenting a united front, essential for winning the governorship. The failure to address this anomaly perpetuates a cycle of disunity and weakens the zone’s political leverage.
Unity, or rather the lack of it, is a critical issue. The zone is often engulfed in blackmail, backstabbing, and the archaic ‘pull him down syndrome,’ which are counterproductive traits that erode collective efforts. The absence of a cohesive leadership structure further complicates matters. Without a rallying figure or organization to unify the zone, political leaders remain fragmented and ineffective. This leadership vacuum has left the zone vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation by other zones.
Betrayal is perhaps the most damaging factor. The presence of political saboteurs, individuals who betray their people for personal gain, has consistently undermined the zone’s political aspirations. These moles, motivated by short-term benefits, weaken the zone’s collective bargaining power and perpetuate a cycle of subjugation. The recurring decimal of selling out for pecuniary considerations has deeply entrenched itself in the political fabric of Owerri Zone, hindering its progress and potential.
To rectify these issues, Owerri Zone must prioritize unity and consensus-building. The zone needs to move beyond mere lip service and actively pursue strategies that foster collective decision-making. This involves narrowing down pre-election candidates to one or two individuals, ensuring block votes, and avoiding the pitfalls of internal competition. Political leaders must resist the temptation to sell out and instead focus on the long-term goal of securing the governorship.
Owerri Zone’s political actors must also engage in strategic alliances with counterparts from other zones. Understanding and outmaneuvering opponents through deft political maneuvers is crucial. By reaching out and building bridges, the zone can position itself more favorably in the state’s power dynamics.
The time for change is now. Owerri Zone must wake up to the reality of its political relegation and take concerted steps to reclaim its rightful place in Imo State’s political landscape. Only through unity, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the collective good can the zone hope to overcome its challenges and secure the governorship. The path to Douglas House requires a concerted effort, free from betrayal and self-serving ambitions. It is an OWERRI ZONE AGENDA that must be pursued with vigor and without apologies.
Hon Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Ihiagwa ofo asato
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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