The Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC) has firmly stated that the Imo Charter of Equity will not hinder the emergence of a credible person capable of succeeding Governor Hope Uzodimma in 2027.
The coalition emphasized that while the Charter remains an important principle, it should not be a limitation in the search for the best leader for the state after the governor.
In a statement signed by its President, Emmanuel Okwu, OZAC stressed that the group is committed to supporting someone from Owerri zone who is deemed credible and acceptable to all three zones of the state—Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu.
According to the statement, the coalition’s goal is to ensure that the next governor builds on Uzodimma’s legacy and delivers on the aspirations of Imolites.
“The Charter of Equity remains a guiding principle, but it should not prevent the emergence of a leader who has the capacity to lead Imo State effectively,”
“We are focused on finding someone who is credible, competent, and acceptable across all zones and by the electorate.” part of the statement read.
OZAC revealed that it had identified five prominent individuals from Owerri zone who meet the criteria for leadership.
“Three months ago, we made it known that we have narrowed our search to five Owerri sons who are clean, competent, and capable of continuing Uzodimma’s legacies,” he said.
Addressing the ongoing rivalry between Owerri and Okigwe zones over power rotation, OZAC criticized those using the Charter of Equity to stoke tensions.
“The Owerri-Okigwe rivalry is being fueled by forces opposed to the aspirations of both zones,”
“It is time for Owerri zone leaders to focus on unity and work together.” the statement stated.
The coalition argued that competence and acceptability should take precedence over rigid zoning considerations.
“When you have a candidate who is credible in Owerri, acceptable in Okigwe, and respected in Orlu, such a person will easily dismantle any barriers to the governorship,” Okwu asserted.
The group expressed optimism that a candidate with cross-zonal acceptability would help bridge the divides in Imo State.
“Our objective is to identify someone who can unite the state and ensure progress of the State”
“We are not just looking for someone from Owerri zone, but someone capable of winning the trust of all Imolites.” the group explained
OZAC also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership, describing it as a benchmark for future administrations.
“Governor Uzodimma has set an impressive standard with his developmental initiatives, and we must ensure his successor has the capacity to continue from where he stopped,” it noted.
OZAC called on political leaders and stakeholders from the Owerri zone to set aside distractions and focus on presenting a someone who can lead the state effectively.
“This is a time for decisive leadership and collaboration. Owerri zone leaders must come together to support a candidate who can inspire trust and deliver results.”part of the statement read.
“We remain committed to our vision of a better Imo State, led by someone who embodies integrity, competence, and a clear vision for progress,” the statement concluded.
