Imo: Tension Mounts in Oguta Over Alleged Imposition of Chairmanship Candidate

Concerns have emerged in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State over a purported move to impose Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, the former Sole Administrator (SOLAD) of the LGA, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the forthcoming September 21, 2024, local government elections.

The zoning arrangement traditionally respected in the LGA, which seeks to maintain a balance of power between Oguta North and Oguta South, is reportedly under threat.

According to stakeholders, Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, who hails from Oguta North, currently holds the same region’s position in the political equation, with the present House of Assembly member also from the North. The alleged imposition has sparked dissatisfaction among party members and residents in Oguta, particularly those from Oguta South, who feel marginalized by the move.

A statement by Oguta Unity Forum which was made available to newsmen on Friday by its spokesperson, Chief Kenneth Obi, called on the leadership of the APC in Imo State never to jettison the age-long zoning arrangement in Oguta in the interest of peace and fair play in the LGA.

Recall that Governor Hope Uzodimma had earlier assured party stakeholders of the importance of upholding zoning principles and promoting equity in the selection of candidates for the local government elections.

Historically, the zoning arrangement ensures that when one section of the LGA produces the House of Assembly representative, the chairmanship position is given to the opposite section. This system has been regarded as a crucial element in sustaining peace and harmony in the LGA.

The current discontent centers around the belief that the Agwa people of Oguta South, who have long been contributors to the economic well-being of the state, deserve the position of LGA chairman. Agwa alone hosts two major oil companies and is one of the leading petroleum-producing areas in Nigeria, significantly bolstering the state’s economy. Denying them this political opportunity, stakeholders argue, would be unjust and could lead to unrest.

Furthermore, Governor Uzodimma had previously promised that the selection of candidates would be based on a consensus among party leaders in each area.

However, stakeholders from Oguta South are contesting the claim that they were sidelined in the decision-making process leading to the imposition of Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani as the chairmanship candidate. They argue that no consultations were held with local leaders or stakeholders before the announcement of the former SOLAD’s candidacy.

Calls for the governor’s intervention have grown louder, with party members and community leaders urging a swift resolution to the crisis to preserve the delicate peace that has long existed in Oguta.

Many have pointed out that respecting the traditional zoning arrangement is not only vital for political equity but also for fostering unity within the community.

The potential for unrest is particularly worrisome for many, as the upcoming elections could become a flashpoint if the concerns of the people in Oguta South are not addressed. Some community members fear that disregarding the long-established zoning framework could lead to political instability, which may impact the governance of the LGA.

As the election date draws closer, all eyes are on Governor Uzodimma and the leadership of the APC in Imo State to resolve the issue in a manner that promotes fairness, equity, and peace in Oguta LGA.

The governor’s ability to mediate this sensitive situation will be crucial in ensuring a peaceful and acceptable outcome for all parties involved.

309982