Some political leaders in Owerri zone are set to commence subtle consultations with other sister zones in the State- Orlu and Okigwe- geared towards actualizing an Imo State governor of Owerri zone extraction in 2019.
Several groups in the past have sprouted up within the zone to champion the cause though with complicated aims and objectives. A leading member of the APC from the zone is behind the latest initiative and intend to tailor the aims and objectives of the group to cut across political leanings to advance their cause.
Part of the plans is to begin sensitization of critical stakeholders on the need to be united and forge ahead in one direction.
One of the co ordinators of the movement who spoke on condition of anonymity said “We have seen that
there are many groups championing the Owerri zone agenda and we commend them for that”
“We have seen that mere fireworks cannot solve our problem. We will engage other sister zones on this matter and we will consult them. The consultation will be very broad.But before then, we need to consult within ourselves and have a common front” he said.
Several groups have championed the campaign for an Owerri zone governor in 2019 despite the no zoning sentiment advocated by Imo State Governor,Rochas Okorocha. The zone had made their agitations quietly until recently a former member of the House of Reps, Hon.Uche Onyeagocha fired the first shot to show the willingness of the Zone to take Government House, Owerri in 2019
This was followed by a former commissioner in the State, Nick Oparandundu who in an open letter called on Okorocha to respect the tenets of fairplay and equity by handing over to Owerri zone governor in 2019.
The issue of zoning the Imo governorship contest has been a thorny one in recent times. Orlu zone seem not be keen to heed to the agitation of Owerri zone as two aspirants- Hon Thankgod Ezeani and Hon Chukwudi Eze Mayor from the zone have indicated interest in the contest.
Mr. Ike Ibe from Okigwe zone last week declared his governorship ambition on the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA.
No one from Owerri zone has declared his intention though investigation reveal that soon many aspirants in the zone will join the contest.
Political pundits contend that Owerri zone must tackle the absence of unity among other political blocs if it intends to forge ahead.