The Owerri Zone Political Leaders Forum (OZOPOLF) has raised concerns over reports of defections of some chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, APC to The Mazi Movement, led by Chief Chima Matthew Amadi.
In a statement signed by OZOPOLF President, Charles Amadi, the group cautioned that political aspirations for the 2027 governorship should be pursued with unity and collaboration, rather than actions that undermine equity and fairness.
OZOPOLF emphasized that the push for an Owerri Zone governorship in 2027 is not a personal ambition but a broader vision championed by Governor Hope Uzodimma, who has consistently advocated for equity in power distribution across Imo State.
The forum praised Governor Uzodimma’s efforts in promoting inclusivity and ensuring that Owerri Zone stands a strong chance of producing the next governor.
The forum highlighted the support from Orlu Zone leaders, including President Generals and other stakeholders, who have called for fairness in power rotation.
OZOPOLF noted that this goodwill must be preserved, urging Owerri Zone leaders and aspirants to avoid actions that could alienate allies in Orlu and Okigwe Zones.
“It would be a betrayal of the governor’s vision and the goodwill from other zones for anyone to undermine his leadership,” the statement read.
OZOPOLF criticized recent defections to The Mazi Movement as counterproductive, warning that such moves risk sowing discord within the zone and jeopardizing its collective ambition.
The group unequivocally condemned any attacks on Governor Uzodimma, labeling such actions as reckless and detrimental to the zone’s interests. It described those engaging in divisive politics as “the real enemies of Owerri Zone,” accusing them of trying to turn other zones against the region and derail the 2027 governorship agenda.
OZOPOLF called for unity, urging political leaders to focus on building bridges with Orlu and Okigwe Zones.
It advised aspirants to concentrate on presenting their vision and ideas to the people of Imo State rather than engaging in confrontational or antagonistic politics.
“Let the people judge based on competence, capacity, and ideas,” the statement urged.
It stressed that strategic engagement and political maturity, rather than desperation, were essential for achieving the zone’s goal of producing the next governor.
It reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the emergence of a credible candidate from Owerri Zone who would build on the achievements of Governor Uzodimma and drive Imo State forward.
OZOPOLF pledged to resist any attempts to derail this mission through divisive or self-serving actions.
It called on all stakeholders from Owerri Zone to remain focused and steadfast in the pursuit of a united and strategic approach to the 2027 governorship race.
