Dr. Uzoma Obiyo has donated ₦10 million for the immediate establishment of a functional secretariat for Owerri Zone United, setting the tone for a high-level assembly that focused on unity, structure, and the zone’s political roadmap ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The donation, announced at the group’s second General Assembly, was widely applauded by stakeholders, who described it as a critical step toward institutionalizing the movement and strengthening its operational capacity.
The meeting, held at the Emekuku residence of Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho, brought together political leaders, opinion moulders, and grassroots mobilizers from the nine local government areas of Owerri Zone.
Addressing the gathering, Obiyo commended leaders and stakeholders for defying skepticism and forging a united front, noting that the zone has now demonstrated a renewed ability to act in unison.
“Many doubted that Owerri Zone could speak with one voice again. Today, we have shown that unity is not only possible, but it is already here,” he said.
He urged sustained commitment to the collective cause, stressing that the movement is anchored on shared destiny rather than individual ambition.
“This is bigger than any individual — it is about our collective destiny. I urge every son and daughter of this zone to remain resolute and committed to this cause,” Obiyo added.
The former governorship aspirant also commended Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for what he described as a sincere commitment to the Imo Charter of Equity.
“The Governor has shown statesmanship by upholding the spirit of the Imo Charter of Equity. Equity, fairness, and rotation of power remain the foundation for lasting peace and development in our state,” he stated.
Obiyo called on leaders of Owerri Zone to openly acknowledge the governor’s stance, insisting that such recognition would reinforce the principle of equity in the state’s political process.
On the 2027 governorship ambition, he emphasized the need for strategic alliances with Orlu and Okigwe zones, warning against pursuing the objective in isolation.
“We cannot do it alone, and we should not try to do it alone. Aka nri kwoo aka ekpe, aka ekpe akwoo aka nri, ha abụọ akwọọ ọnụ,” he said, underscoring the importance of collaboration.
Beyond the donation, Obiyo outlined key proposals, including diaspora town hall meetings across Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom to mobilize support and resources from indigenes abroad.
He also proposed the establishment of a dedicated ICT department to enhance communication, strengthen outreach, and build a comprehensive database of Owerri people at home and in the diaspora.
In his remarks, host of the meeting, Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho, thanked participants for their turnout and reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that promote equity, peace, and development in Owerri Zone and Imo State.
Other stakeholders echoed the call for unity, stressing that the time for rhetoric has passed and that coordinated action, grassroots mobilization, and strategic engagement will define the zone’s political trajectory as the assembly ended with a renewed pledge to close ranks and push forward with a common purpose toward 2027.
