2028 Imo guber: Traditional rulers, leaders back Owerri Zone
— Eze Imo, Deputy Governor, Charles Amadi, Kema Chikwe, others declare support for power rotation
By Jennifer John
Traditional rulers and political leaders in Imo State have reaffirmed their commitment to the Charter of Equity, declaring that the arrangement for rotational governorship among the three senatorial zones of the state must be sustained to guarantee peace, unity and political stability.
The leaders, who spoke during a gathering in support of the Charter of Equity, maintained that the agreement would promote fairness and peaceful transition of political power among Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe zones.
The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, described traditional rulers as the fathers of their communities and commended them for their wisdom, courage and commitment to peace and unity.
Ekomaru said Governor Hope Uzodimma had demonstrated that he was a listening governor who valued the advice and counsel of traditional rulers and elders.
According to her, the peace being enjoyed in the state was, to a great extent, a product of the guidance and counsel continuously offered by traditional rulers and elders to the governor.
She urged the traditional rulers to take the message of peace, unity, equity and understanding back to their various communities.
The Deputy Governor also highlighted what she described as the symbolic significance of the names of the three senatorial zones—Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe—all beginning with the letter “O.”
She noted that the circular shape of the letter “O” could be seen as a symbol of unity, togetherness and continuity, urging the people of the state to embrace the spirit of oneness.
Speaking on behalf of the Owerri Charter of Equity leaders, Charles Amadi said the Charter must begin with Owerri Zone, expressing confidence that history would remember the initiative as a major instrument for peace, unity and tranquillity in Imo State.
Amadi said equity and peace were about ensuring a smooth transition of political leadership among the three zones, stressing that allowing each zone an opportunity to lead would strengthen trust, unity and peaceful coexistence.
He commended Governor Uzodimma for his contributions towards peace, stability and development in the state, while also appreciating traditional rulers and other stakeholders for their support.
He said the people of Owerri Zone, as an apex social organisation, would continue to remind political leaders of the principles of equity, justice and peaceful transition as the state approaches 2028.
Also speaking, Eze Imo, Eze Okeke, urged the people of Owerri Zone to maintain unity of purpose and build strong internal synergy towards achieving their governorship aspiration.
He reassured stakeholders that the people of Orlu Zone remained committed to the Charter of Equity as institutionalised by Governor Uzodimma.
Eze Okeke declared that the issue of the Charter of Equity had been settled, insisting that Owerri Zone would take over the governorship after the expiration of Governor Uzodimma’s tenure.
He called for continued understanding and cooperation among the three zones to ensure that the transition was peaceful and seamless.
In her remarks, former Minister and elder stateswoman, Ambassador Kema Chikwe, recalled her closest interaction with Governor Uzodimma, describing him as an honest and sincere man who clearly communicated his position on the issue.
Chikwe said the governor had encouraged stakeholders to take their time, work together and remain united, stressing that the leaders came together as one family with a common purpose.
She, however, called for the institutionalisation of the principles of equity, justice and peaceful transition, arguing that the process should not depend solely on individuals.
According to her, the Charter must become a system respected by the Elders Council, the House of Assembly and other relevant institutions so that there would be no confusion whenever political power was due to move from one zone to another.
She said the ultimate objective was to secure lasting peace in Imo State, urging political leaders and stakeholders to make sacrifices and place the interest of the state above personal ambitions.
Chikwe further urged the people to appreciate those who had played significant roles in promoting unity and bringing the various stakeholders together.
She said history would remember those who demonstrated courage by standing for justice, equity, peace and unity at a critical moment in the history of the state.
The Coordinator and publicity chieftain of the event, Barr. Kingsley Ononuju, Ekwedashike, while briefing the press, enjoined all the leaders and stakeholders of Imo State, including women and youths, to massively support the Charter of Equity, which will be one of the greatest legacies of the present administration.
He added that, shortly, Imo shall be set on autopilot towards a peaceful and stable political future.
