The debate over which zone in Imo State deserves the governorship seat in 2027 has reignited old wounds and raised questions of equity and justice.
While Okigwe Zone argues that it is its turn, citing the truncated tenure of its son, Ikedi Ohakim, in 2011, a closer look at history reveals a pattern of deeper injustice suffered by Owerri Zone. The facts speak for themselves, and it is clear who truly deserves compensation.
Okigwe Zone’s claim stems from the fact that Ikedi Ohakim served only one term before being defeated by Rochas Okorocha. However, losing a second term in a free and fair election cannot be equated to systemic injustice.
Elections are competitive, and the people’s choice prevailed. This is vastly different from the brazen denial of a mandate, as was the case with Martin Agbaso of Owerri Zone in 2007.
Before Ohakim’s emergence as Governor, Martin Agbaso of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) had won the governorship election, only for the Maurice Iwu-led Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel it.
Maurice Iwu, an indigene of Okigwe Zone, manipulated the process to deny Agbaso his mandate and pave the way for his kinsman, Ikedi Ohakim. This was a blatant act of injustice, not just to Agbaso but to the entire Owerri Zone.
If we are to discuss compensation, shouldn’t Owerri Zone be first in line? Okigwe Zone has had its fair share of the governorship.
Sam Mbakwe served four years, and Ikedi Ohakim added another four years, making a total of eight years for Okigwe. In contrast, Owerri Zone has had only Evan Enwerem, who served a mere 22 months, and Emeka Ihedioha, whose tenure was controversially cut short after just seven months. This totals a paltry 29 months for Owerri Zone—a glaring disparity.
Fast forward to 2020: Emeka Ihedioha of Owerri Zone was unceremoniously removed from office by a Supreme Court judgment widely regarded as one of the most controversial in Nigeria’s history. His removal and replacement by Hope Uzodimma of Orlu Zone added salt to the wounds of Owerri Zone.
This was yet another instance of injustice against a zone that has been consistently marginalized in Imo politics.
The proposition that Owerri and Okigwe Zones should negotiate for the governorship is not only laughable but also insensitive. When Maurice Iwu from Okigwe Zone orchestrated the denial of Martin Agbaso’s mandate, did Okigwe Zone initiate any negotiations to pacify Owerri? The answer is a resounding no. So why should Owerri Zone now entertain negotiations when it is clearly the most aggrieved party?
Okigwe Zone has had a taste of governorship far more than Owerri Zone. Sam Mbakwe’s legendary tenure and Ikedi Ohakim’s term total eight years. Owerri Zone, on the other hand, has been shortchanged repeatedly, with a combined total of just over two years in office. This disparity cannot be ignored, and it underscores the urgent need for justice.
Those who argue for Okigwe Zone conveniently overlook the historical injustices meted out to Owerri Zone. They ignore the fact that Owerri’s candidates have been systematically denied their rightful place, whether through electoral manipulation or judicial interventions. It is not a matter of negotiation; it is a matter of righting historical wrongs.
Based on these facts, it is evident that Owerri Zone deserves the governorship in 2027. The zone’s political marginalization must end, and equity must prevail. Okigwe Zone’s claims, while understandable, pale in comparison to the systemic injustice Owerri has endured. Justice demands that Owerri Zone be given its due before any other considerations are made.
Imo State’s progress and advancement depends on fairness and inclusivity. Owerri Zone has waited long enough, and the time to rectify this imbalance is now.
In 2027, the governorship must return to Owerri Zone—not as a favour, but as a matter of justice and equity.
Agu, Is Secretary, Owerri Progressive Front, OPF
