The Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC) has raised alarm over an alleged plot to derail the quest for the Owerri zone to produce the next governor of Imo State in 2027
The group claims the conspiracy is being orchestrated by powerful forces within and outside Owerri zone, who are pressuring Governor Hope Uzodimma to present an all-inclusive contest for the governorship seat in 2027, contrary to the principles of the Charter of Equity.
The Charter of Equity, formulated by the Imo State Council of Elders, was designed to promote equitable power rotation among the three geopolitical zones of the state: Orlu, Okigwe, and Owerri.
Governor Uzodimma has publicly expressed his commitment to upholding this charter.
in a statement signed by Emmanuel Okwu, President of OZAC, the group stressed that while the governorship position is not an entitlement of Owerri zone, it is morally justifiable for the zone to produce the next governor in 2027
“We are aware of the high-level machinations to undermine the Owerri zone’s guber aspiration, but it is only fair and equitable for our zone to take its rightful turn in 2027,” OZAC stated.
The coalition also alleged that the conspirators have already found allies within Owerri zone who are willing to sabotage their own people’s efforts.
“It is puzzling and unfortunate that certain individuals in Owerri zone are aligning with these external forces to thwart the collective interest of the zone,” the group lamented.
Despite acknowledging that anyone is free to associate politically as they choose, OZAC urged Orlu and Okigwe zones to consider the importance of fairness and support the Owerri zone’s ambition in 2027.
“Let us not forget the sacrifices made by Owerri zone to ensure Orlu’s political ascendancy in the past. In 1999, for example, I.D. Nwoga, of blessed memory, persuaded Humphrey Anumudu, from Owerri zone, to relinquish the PDP governorship ticket to Achike Udenwa from Orlu zone,” the group reminded.
OZAC called on Governor Uzodimma to stand firm against any attempt to subvert the Charter of Equity and reaffirm his commitment to fairness, unity, and progress for all zones in Imo State.
The coalition emphasized that allowing the Owerri zone to lead in 2027 would not only uphold justice but also strengthen the bond of brotherhood among the three zones.
