Chief Fidel Anujuo’s argument against zoning in Imo State overlooks the essential role zoning plays in ensuring equitable power distribution and mitigating historical inequities. While the fair distribution of resources is undeniably significant, it cannot be decoupled from the need for balanced political representation. Examining other Southeastern states that have successfully implemented gentleman agreements for power rotation highlights the benefits of such systems in promoting fairness and unity.
One zone in Imo State, Orlu, has dominated the governorship for nearly 24 years. This prolonged rulership has fostered a sense of resentment, bitterness, inequity, unfairness, injustice and a sense of marginalization among the other zones—Owerri and Okigwe. The scenario has led to an environment where one zone’s dominance undermines the principles of fairness and justice. Allowing the marginalized zones their turns in governance is not just a matter of equity but a necessity to heal the divisions created by this long-standing imbalance.
Imo State is not yet mature enough to discard zoning, a mechanism our forbears designed to manage our diversity and ensure that every zone feels represented. No state in the Southeast and infact in Nigeria, is mature enough to do away with zoning without risking significant political and social instability. Zoning agreements have historically provided a framework for managing diverse interests and preventing the monopolization of power.
The calls to eliminate zoning come after almost 24 years of Orlu’s dominance, which now seeks to exploit its numerical advantage with 12 local governments, compared to Owerri’s 9 and Okigwe’s 6. This strategy to perpetuate their control disregards the need for equitable power distribution. Before any new political rules can be considered, it is imperative that all zones are given their turns in leadership to correct the current imbalance and foster a sense of inclusion.
Moreover, the annexation from owerri zone of Ohaji/Egbema as part of Orlu zone is unacceptable and exacerbates the unfair advantage already enjoyed by Orlu. This situation must be addressed to ensure that the political structure reflects true equity and fairness. Orlu must recognize that their extended stay in power has bred discontent and a sense of exclusion among the other zones. For the sake of long-term peace and development, it is crucial that Owerri and subsequently Okigwe have their rightful turns in leadership.
The focus on a governor who treats the state as one and ensures fair distribution of resources is indeed valid, and there is no shortage of such leaders in okigwe and owerri zones. However, achieving this ideal requires that all zones first have their fair share of political representation. Only then can the state move towards a more unified and equitable governance model. The current emphasis on zoning is a response to the historical and ongoing inequities, and addressing these through equitable power distribution is the first step towards achieving the unity and development that Chief Anujuo envisions.
In conclusion, zoning remains an essential mechanism for ensuring equitable power distribution and managing diversity in Imo State. It is not the time to discard it but to reinforce it to correct the historical injustices and foster a more inclusive and unified state. Allowing marginalized zones their turns in governance is the path to healing divisions and ensuring that every Imo citizen feels represented and valued.
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
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