The Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC) has reacted to media reports attributing remarks to Chief Tony Chukwu, suggesting that Owerri Zone should forfeit its status as the host of Imo State’s capital in favour of Okigwe Zone, in exchange for securing the governorship in 2027.
In a statement signed by its President, Emmanuel Okwu, OZAC described such remarks as divisive, unjust, and a direct affront to the principles of fairness and equity.
The group emphasized that the state capital is not a bargaining tool for political deals.
“Owerri was chosen as the state capital for its neutrality and strategic significance, serving as a hub for all Imo citizens. It belongs to every zone and cannot be traded away to serve narrow political interests,” the statement read.
OZAC recalled the historical and infrastructural sacrifices Owerri Zone has made as the host of the state capital.
According to the coalition, the zone has borne the brunt of urbanization and stretched resources, making it unreasonable and insensitive to demand it relinquish the capital.
The coalition also highlighted the marginalization of Owerri Zone in the state’s governorship rotation since 1999. It noted that despite its contributions to the state’s development, Owerri has yet to produce a governor who completed one full term in office, unlike other zones.
“Justice and equity demand that Owerri Zone be given the opportunity to lead Imo State. The time for this long-overdue correction is 2027,” OZAC asserted.
Furthermore, the group called on political stakeholders in the State to adhere to the Imo Charter of Equity, which ensures fair power-sharing among the state’s three senatorial zones.
They cautioned that ignoring this charter could lead to political disharmony and disenfranchisement.
“The governorship is not a gift to be exchanged for the state capital. Owerri Zone’s candidacy represents a quest for justice, equity, and balanced development across Imo State,” the coalition concluded.
