PRESS STATEMENT
OZAC has taken note of the statement credited to Save Imo and rejects its attempt to define the mandate and relevance of the Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition. No individual or self-appointed group has the authority to determine who speaks on the legitimate interests of Owerri Zone. OZAC does not require the permission of Save Imo, Ebubeagu Ekenulo or any other group to advocate equity, justice and fairness for Owerri Zone.
The suggestion that OZAC should “collapse” into another organisation is presumptuous and misplaced. OZAC is already in synergy with genuine groups, stakeholders and patriotic voices across Owerri Zone, united in the sincere advocacy for an Imo Governor of Owerri Zone extraction in 2027. Our objective is to build a broad and credible platform around this legitimate aspiration through consultation, cooperation and constructive engagement.
OZAC also rejects the attempt to portray its advocacy as a threat to Orlu Zone. Calling for the implementation of the Imo Charter of Equity is not an ultimatum; demanding fairness is not blackmail. Orlu Zone has occupied the governorship for a substantial period, while Owerri Zone remains the least represented in the governorship rotation since 1999. Our demand is therefore rooted in equity, history and political understanding—not sentiment.
Those invoking the Constitution and Electoral Law should understand that what is legally permissible is not necessarily what is politically equitable. Nobody denies Orlu Zone the constitutional right to contest. The question is whether political actors will respect the principle of fairness and the understanding behind the Charter of Equity. Laws regulate elections; equity, trust and consensus sustain political stability.
Finally, OZAC will not be intimidated by lectures about who should speak for Owerri Zone or how Owerri Zone should pursue its aspirations. We know the difference between an ultimatum and a demand for justice, and between advocacy and blackmail. OZAC remains committed to working with all genuine groups and stakeholders seeking an Owerri Zone governor in 2027. We will continue to speak, organise and advocate for equity—firmly, peacefully and without apology.
Signed:
Emmanuel Okwu
President, OZAC
