The political terrain of Imo State has once again stirred emotions, with contentious debates arising about the rightful claim of Owerri Zone to the governorship seat.
The recent suggestion by some quarters that Owerri Zone should relinquish the state capital in exchange for the governorship is not only baffling but also insulting to the political and historical stature of the zone. This is not a matter for negotiation; it is a matter of justice and equity.
Owerri Zone has long been overdue for the governorship. Despite being the host of the state capital and the economic heartbeat of Imo, it has been consistently sidelined in the state’s power-sharing dynamics.
The governorship seat should naturally rotate to Owerri Zone as a matter of equity, considering the dominance of Orlu Zone, which has held the governorship for a disproportionate number of years. Okigwe Zone has also had its fair share, leaving Owerri Zone to continually languish in political obscurity. The time for Owerri Zone to take its rightful place is now, and there is no basis for begging or compromise.
The conspiracy to deny Owerri Zone the governorship appears glaring. The latest suggestion to trade the state capital for the governorship is a clear testament to this. Where in Nigeria, or anywhere in the world, has such a ludicrous proposition been made? The state capital is not a bargaining chip to be traded for political positions; it is a permanent asset and symbol of governance. The suggestion reeks of desperation and a deliberate attempt to destabilize the zone’s aspirations.
Owerri Zone has never cruised to governorship on a silver platter. The victory of Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha in 2019 is a case in point. Ihedioha, an illustrious son of Owerri Zone, defied all odds and demystified the incumbency power of Rochas Okorocha, who had thrown his weight behind his son-in-law, Uche Nwosu. That victory was not handed on a platter but earned through strategic engagement, resilience, and the overwhelming support of the people. This should serve as a precedent and a reminder that Owerri Zone is capable of securing the governorship without trading its dignity or assets.
One compelling reason Owerri Zone must demand the governorship without compromise is equity. The principles of fairness dictate that all zones in a state should have equal opportunities to lead. Owerri Zone’s exclusion from the governorship for decades violates this principle and perpetuates a cycle of marginalization. It is time to correct this historical injustice.
Secondly, Owerri Zone’s strategic importance to the state cannot be overstated. As the host of the state capital, Owerri Zone contributes significantly to the state’s economic and infrastructural development. Leadership from the zone would ensure that these contributions are adequately acknowledged and harnessed for the benefit of all Imo people.
Thirdly, political marginalization of Owerri Zone undermines unity in the state. The continuous dominance of other zones creates resentment and division, which can erode the collective progress of Imo. Rotating the governorship to Owerri Zone in line with the reverred Imo Charter Of Equity would foster inclusivity and strengthen the state’s unity.
Enough of this political pettiness. Owerri Zone must adopt a firm and strategic approach. The zone should actively engage Orlu and Okigwe Zones, building alliances and partnerships that underscore the principles of equity and shared governance. It is not about begging; it is about demanding what is justly due.
The people of Owerri Zone must reject the divisive rhetoric and remain resolute in their pursuit of justice. The governorship is not a favor to be granted; it is a right that must be claimed. Imo deserves a leader from Owerri Zone, and the time for that leadership is now.
Okwu, President, Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition, OZAC, Writes From London
