The Ogbako Ohaji People’s Forum, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Ohaji District in Imo State, has firmly rejected the proposed inclusion of the Ohaji in the creation of Orlu State.
In a letter addressed to the Senate President, the forum articulated its position, emphasizing their preference to remain in Imo State.
They also commended the call for the creation of additional states to address imbalances in Nigeria’s geopolitical structure.
However, the forum noted that such an initiative must respect the wishes and historical ties of the communities involved.
“For so long, the people of the South-East have clamoured for an additional state to correct the atrocious imbalance among the six geopolitical zones,”
“While we support this noble objective, we unequivocally reject any attempt to include Ohaji Nation in the creation of Orlu State.” part of the letter stated.
The forum highlighted the unique identity and autonomy of Ohaji, which comprises 25 recognized autonomous communities and a population of nearly 400,000 and 7 INEC political wards.
The group lamented the lack of consultation by proponents of the Orlu State proposal, describing it as an “insulting and egregious” oversight.
“It is even more egregious that none of the promoters of such phantom proposals have thought it necessary to reach out to us. They have taken us for granted, assuming we would acquiesce to their plans,” the forum argued.
Citing historical precedents, they recalled the role of Ohaji leaders in advocating for the inclusion of their district in Imo State during the Justice Irikefe Commission of 1975 and the Justice Mamman Boundary Adjustment Commission of 1976. These efforts were driven by a strong cultural, religious, and geopolitical affinity with the Owerri zone, the forum emphasized.
The letter also referenced a 2008 resolution and a 2009 memorandum signed by Ohaji leaders, which underscored their preference for remaining in Imo State.
“Our ties with Imo State are rooted in history, shared values, and proximity,” they stated.
The group further criticized the historical inclusion of Ohaji District in Orlu Senatorial Zone, describing it as a “political marriage of inconvenience.”
They insisted that political alliances must be based on mutual agreement and cultural compatibility, not compulsion or annexation.
“We have no cultural or social affinity with Orlu people,”
“Our political future should not be dictated by others but determined by our collective will.”part of the letter read.
The Forum reaffirmed its opposition to the inclusion of Ohaji in Orlu State and called on the National Assembly to respect their autonomy.
“We support the creation of a new state in the South-East, but Ohaji must remain in Imo State or align with a state that respects our identity and aspirations,” the forum stated.
The letter was Jointly signed by High Chief Sir Fidelis Enyia (KSJI), National President, Ogbako Ohaji Peoples Forum, Hon. Chief Johnbosco Ben, Chairman, Ogbako Ohaji Committee On State Creation, Dr. Theodore Amunwa, National Secretary, Ogbako Ohaji Peoples Forum, Prof Meshack Ifurueze, Secretary, Ogbako Ohaji Committee On State Creation and Comr. Nwosu Nicholas Tochi, National President, Ohaji Youth Congress, (NACOY)
Copies were sent to Senator Osita Izunaso, Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu, Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha, and Hon. Ugochinyere Micheal Ikeagwuonu.
