The Imo Charter of Equity has long been portrayed as the cornerstone of fairness and inclusivity in the state’s political landscape. Its promise to ensure rotational governance among the three geopolitical zones, Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe, has been used as a rallying cry for political equity. Yet, the stark realities of its application reveal a different story. The charter, devoid of enforceability and often manipulated for political gain, has become more of a rhetorical device than a reliable framework. As illustrated in the contrasting arguments of Prince Okey Okoro and Mike Nwachukwu, the reliance on this charter has not only divided opinion but has also distracted Owerri Zone from confronting the deeper issues hindering its political ascendancy.
The fundamental flaw of the Imo Charter of Equity lies in its informal and non-binding nature. It exists without any legal or political compulsion, rendering it more symbolic than practical. Over time, it has been weaponized by Orlu Zone, which has dominated the governorship for over two decades, to perpetuate its control while pacifying other zones with hollow reassurances. Governors such as Rochas Okorocha and Hope Uzodinma ascended to power not through the charter but by leveraging strong political machinery, strategic alliances, and grassroots mobilization. This precedent underscores an unassailable truth: Owerri Zone must not rely on sentimental appeals to the charter but instead forge a new path grounded in strategy, unity, and pragmatism.
Owerri Zone’s inability to produce a governor is rooted in its internal weaknesses as much as in external political dynamics. The zone has repeatedly failed to present a united front, with micro-zoning battles and factionalism diluting its collective strength. The proliferation of self-serving groups such as OZOPOLF and Imo Harmony Group, which often masquerade as champions of Owerri Zone’s cause, has further fragmented its political landscape. These organizations, rather than fostering unity, have focused on personal gain and positioning themselves for negotiations that primarily serve their interests.
As we speak, not less than 30 aspirants from all over Imo State, both sponsored and independent, are jostling for relevance in the 2027 governorship race. These aspirants, scattered across the state and abroad, underscore the competitive and chaotic nature of the political terrain. Owerri Zone must learn from this dynamic and avoid being outflanked by better-organized rivals. It must adopt the introspective strategy employed by Biafra before the civil war, recognizing that it is effectively on its own and must rally its resources and energies for a battle that will require both internal fortitude and external alliances.
The zone’s leadership must come together realistically, shedding the illusion that the charter will deliver victory. Instead, it must confront its internal disunity and focus on building a cohesive strategy. Unity is paramount, but it must be unity with purpose, not the superficial cohesion often displayed during election cycles. Owerri Zone must select candidates with the political acumen, resources, and statewide reach to win. These individuals must embody the zone’s collective aspirations while being capable of navigating the complex political dynamics of Imo State.
Furthermore, Owerri Zone must actively engage with stakeholders in Okigwe and Orlu Zones, negotiating from a position of strength rather than dependency. Alliances must be built on mutual respect and shared interests, not on appeals to an unenforceable charter. The grassroots must also be a central focus, inasmuch as elections are now won in boardrooms and not at polling units. Owerri Zone must mobilize its people across all 305 electoral wards, ensuring that its message resonates with the electorate.
True patriots of Owerri Zone must also reject the influence of opportunistic groups and individuals who exploit pre-election periods for personal gain. These saboteurs, often masquerading as zone emancipators, weaken the zone’s collective bargaining power and distract from the larger goal of securing the governorship.
Imo State’s future hinges on breaking free from the cycles of mediocrity and division that have characterized its politics. Owerri Zone has a unique opportunity to lead this transformation, but it must first abandon the distractions of the charter and focus on building a robust, inclusive political movement. The path to victory lies not in sentimental appeals or reliance on unenforceable agreements but in unity, strategy, and determination. Owerri Zone must take ownership of its destiny and rise to the challenge of leading Imo State into a new era.
The time to act is now.
Hon. Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
“Duruebube Uzii na Abosi”
“Ndukaku III of Ihiagwa”
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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