*Advertorial*
PRESS STATEMENT
The Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC) has taken a firm stance on the recent stakeholders’ meeting convened by Governor Hope Uzodimma with some leaders of Owerri Zone on Monday, March 10, 2025
While acknowledging the importance of the meeting, OZAC emphasizes that the journey towards securing the governorship for Owerri Zone in 2027 is far from a settled matter and requires strategic vigilance.
We commend Governor Uzodimma for initiating the meeting and recognizing the importance of the Imo Charter of Equity. However, it is clear from the governor’s remarks that unity within Owerri Zone is paramount to achieving our collective goal. His call for reconciliation underscores the presence of internal divisions and vested interests that could undermine our cause.
OZAC wishes to state unequivocally that no arrangement guarantees Owerri Zone the governorship in 2027. We must remain vigilant and committed to ensuring that this aspiration becomes a reality. The Imo Charter of Equity must not be manipulated to serve individual interests but rather the collective good of Owerri Zone and Imo State.
We regret the absence of our President, High Chief Dr. Emmanuel Okwu, at the meeting due to its short notice and his absence abroad. However, he remains deeply committed to the cause and continues to provide strategic direction to OZAC. Despite this, the coalition remains fully engaged and unwavering in its determination.
While we appreciate Governor Uzodimma’s acknowledgment of the need for unity, we caution against the premature projection of candidates by any group or individual under the guise of advancing the zone’s interests. The road to 2027 must be built on inclusivity, sincerity, and a genuine commitment to the principles of equity and justice.
OZAC is resolute in its call for collaboration with all stakeholders, both within and outside Owerri Zone, who are genuinely interested in the cause of producing an Owerri Zone governor. We remain open to partnerships but will adopt diplomatic and tactical approaches to ensure the success of this mission.
To our brothers and sisters in other zones, particularly Okigwe, we urge you to respect the principles of equity and support Owerri Zone’s legitimate claim to the governorship in 2027. The Imo Charter of Equity serves as a “Doctrine of Necessity” to manage the complexities of our political landscape, and Owerri Zone should be the first beneficiary in this regard.
OZAC also reaffirms its commitment to a peaceful and strategic approach to achieving its goals. We reject any form of bulldozing tactics or divisiveness and instead call for unity, dialogue, and shared purpose within Owerri Zone.
As we march towards 2027, OZAC will remain steadfast in its advocacy for equity, fairness, and justice. We call on all stakeholders to set aside personal ambitions and work towards the collective interest of Owerri Zone and Imo State at large.
Signed:
Emmanuel Okwu
President, Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC)
