Owerri Zone if it may, has a golden opportunity to get it right this time. This is the moment to rise above past missteps, rise above identity and personal politics, rise above clannism and cronysm, avoid all the banana peels that have previously derailed our aspirations, and present a united, formidable front. By doing so, we can inspire the trust of other zones and garner the support of all of Imo State, demonstrating that our cause is not only just but also rooted in unity, equity, and the collective good. This be the defining moment, if adopted, where Owerri Zone sets a new standard of collaboration and leadership, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
The quest for equitable governance in Imo State has long been guided by the principles of the Imo Charter of Equity, which aimed to ensure fair power distribution among the state’s three senatorial zones: Orlu, Okigwe, and Owerri. However, despite these intentions, Owerri Zone has faced significant setbacks in actualizing its governorship aspirations, with past candidates experiencing truncated tenures due to systemic interventions, external influences, and political maneuvering.
Historical Context of Shortchanged Candidates
1. Late Chief Evan Enwerem (Mbaike bloc):
Elected as Governor in 1991, Enwerem’s tenure was abruptly terminated by the military coup of November 1993, limiting his time in office to less than two years. His administration was poised to usher in significant reforms, but the coup denied us the opportunity to reap the full benefits of his leadership.
2. Chief Martin Agbaso (Owerri bloc):
In the 2007 elections, Chief Agbaso contested under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and was positioned for victory, infact, actually won. However, political forces within INEC, allegedly influenced by few Okigwe Zone power brokers, declared the election inconclusive and cancelled it whilst upholding the state assembly election held on the same day and at the same time.. A rerun resulted in the emergence of Chief Ikedi Ohakim (Okigwe Zone) as governor, effectively denying Owerri Zone its rightful mandate.
3. Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha (Mbaise bloc):
Following his victory in the 2019 governorship election, Ihedioha’s tenure lasted a mere seven months before it was annulled by a controversial Supreme Court ruling that installed Senator Hope Uzodinma from Orlu Zone. This decision remains one of the most contentious judicial interventions in Nigeria’s electoral history, with many viewing it as a federal overreach into state politics.
Challenges Facing Owerri Zone
Owerri Zone’s struggle for political equity is further compounded by the dominance of Orlu Zone, which has held the governorship for 24 out of the 27 years of democracy in Imo State. Okigwe Zone has also had its turn, albeit shorter, leaving Owerri Zone as the only zone in southern Nigeria without an uninterrupted and fully realized tenure in recent history.
Despite these setbacks, the zone has consistently produced capable leaders with the vision, capacity, and experience to govern. However, internal divisions, clannism, micro-zoning disputes, and external interference have repeatedly thwarted its aspirations.
The Case for Shortchanged Candidates in 2027
Given this historical context, it is both strategic and equitable for Owerri Zone to narrow its governorship choices to candidates who have been shortchanged in the past. These individuals not only represent the three major blocs of Owerri Zone but also embody the collective struggle of the zone for fair representation. Rallying behind these candidates offers several distinct advantages:
1. Promoting Unity Within Owerri Zone
By focusing on candidates who have already demonstrated capacity and were denied the chance to govern, the zone can avoid the fragmentation that typically accompanies micro-zoning debates. This approach would encourage all three blocs, Owerri Federal Constituency, Mbaitoli/Ikeduru, and Ngor-Okpala/Etche, to work together towards a common goal.
2. Rectifying Historical Injustices
Supporting candidates whose mandates were truncated is a way of addressing the historical injustices suffered by Owerri Zone. It sends a powerful message that the zone is committed to fairness, justice, and the recognition of past sacrifices.
3. Leveraging Experience and Political Networks
Candidates like Chief Evan Enwerem (if alive), Chief Martin Agbaso, and Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha bring invaluable experience, established political structures, and broad-based support across the state. Their leadership trajectories and familiarity with governance make them strong contenders who can rally the electorate beyond Owerri Zone.
4. Simplifying the Selection Process
By narrowing the choices to these candidates, the zone can sidestep the complications of micro-zoning and instead focus on presenting a unified front. This approach minimizes the risk of internal conflicts that could weaken the zone’s chances in the general election.
5. Enhancing Electability
A candidate with a history of being shortchanged garners sympathy and support, not just within Owerri Zone but across Imo State. Such a narrative strengthens their appeal and positions them as a unifying figure who embodies the collective aspirations of marginalized communities.
Conclusion
As the 2027 elections approach, Owerri Zone stands at a pivotal juncture in its political journey. The time has come for the zone to rise above internal divisions and present a united front. By rallying around candidates who have been shortchanged in the past, the zone can honor the principles of equity and justice while positioning itself strategically for success.
This suggestion is not merely about revisiting the past, it is about shaping the future. It is about ensuring that Owerri Zone takes its rightful place in the governance of Imo State by uniting behind individuals who have proven their dedication, resilience, and capacity to lead.
Let us seize this opportunity to rewrite the narrative for Owerri Zone. By choosing wisely, we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future that reflects the true spirit of equity and justice.
Call to Action
This is a moment for reflection, unity, and decisive action. Owerri Zone must rally behind the principles of fairness and equity, focusing on candidates who represent its collective struggle and aspirations. Let us advocate for justice, demand accountability, and ensure that 2027 marks the beginning of a new chapter in Imo State governance, one led by Owerri Zone.
This suggestion is offered in good faith, with the hope that it will spark meaningful dialogue and foster a united vision for the future. I fully factor in the fact that Chief Evan Enwerem and Chief Humprey Anumudu who would have been ideal for Mbaike block are both late. May their gentle and resilient souls rest in perfect peace.
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
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