Ahead of the 2027 Imo governorship election, a leading socio political group in Imo State, Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition, OZAC, says it is deeply troubled over the workability of Imo Charter of Equity, based on the outcome of the All Progressives Congress, APC consensus method of selecting its candidates for the September 21 local government election in the State.
A statement sent to INNONEWS and signed by its President, Emmanuel Okwu, the group said it is worried about the workability of the charter based on the outcome of the ruling party’s local government primary.
The APC had handpicked candidates on the guise of selection for Chairmanship and Councillorship positions in the 27 local governments and 305 wards, with attendant widespread allegations of ignoring zoning and rotation in the selection process.
This has sparked widespread criticisms from aggrieved aspirants.
OZAC, stated that though the APC primary is a family affair, it’s LG Primary election is contrary to the tenets of the Charter which it formulated.
The full statement reads:
“The Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC) is worried about the workability of the Imo Charter of Equity, given the recent actions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Hope Uzodimma.
“The APC and the Governor clearly ignored the principle of zoning and rotation in choosing Chairmanship candidates for the September 21 Imo LG election.
“This disregard for the charter’s principles in the selection of local government chairmanship candidates raises concerns about its effectiveness in promoting equity and fairness in Imo State.
“OZAC believes that the Imo Charter of Equity is a vital document that ensures equal representation and opportunities for all zones in the state.
“However, the recent actions of the APC have undermined the charter’s purpose and intent.
“By ignoring zoning and rotation, the APC and Governor Uzodimma have both shown a lack of commitment to the principles of equity and fairness.
“This has led to a situation where some zones are marginalized and excluded from political opportunities in the just concluded party primary
OZAC is concerned that this trend will continue, thus may erode the tenets of the Imo Charter of Equity which encourages zoning and equitable distribution of political offices
“Going forward, we appeal to the APC and Governor Uzodimma to reconsider their actions and adhere to the principles of the charter during the build up to the 2027 Imo governorship election
“We wish to reiterate that the people of Owerri zone deserve fair representation and equal opportunities, and OZAC will continue to advocate for this.
“We call on all stakeholders to join us in promoting the principles of the Imo Charter of Equity.
“Together, we can ensure that Imo State is governed with equity, fairness, and justice.
“OZAC will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary actions to protect the interests of the good people of Owerri zone.
“We hope that the APC and Governor Uzodimma will listen to our concerns and work towards a more equitable Imo State in the near future.
“The future of Imo State depends on our ability to work together and promote fairness and justice for all.