Owerri Zone Progressives Forum (OZOPROF) has declared support for leaders of Okigwe Zone over their demand that the next Governor of Imo Sta,te should come from the zone in 2027, citing justice, equity and historical fairness.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement signed by its leadership, OZOPROF said the position presented by Okigwe leaders during their recent engagement with Governor Hope Uzodinma reflects the true spirit of the Imo Charter of Equity.
The group faulted attempts to promote what it described as a distorted version of the charter, warning that equity cannot be achieved through pressure, intimidation or political manipulation.
OZOPROF said the document being pushed in some quarters as a charter of equity did not emerge from public consultation or broad consensus and should not be imposed on the people of the state. It aligned with Okigwe leaders in insisting that any genuine equity arrangement must be rooted in justice and fairness.
The forum noted that while Okigwe Zone supports the revival of the Imo Charter of Equity, it rejects any arrangement that would rotate power from Orlu Zone directly to Owerri Zone, leaving Okigwe excluded once again. According to OZOPROF, such a move would amount to a continuation of injustice rather than equity.
The group said historical records show that Okigwe Zone suffered most from the collapse of the original charter and therefore has a strong moral claim in the current conversation on rotation. It added that those who undermined the original agreement must first address past wrongs before claiming to defend equity.
OZOPROF also pointed to the 2023 governorship election results, stating that Okigwe Zone demonstrated strong support for Governor Uzodinma despite having fewer local government areas than Owerri Zone. It said this level of loyalty and political commitment should be recognised in decisions about the future leadership of the state.
The forum further highlighted developmental gaps in Okigwe Zone, noting that while Owerri Zone benefits from being the state capital and Orlu Zone has produced governors, Okigwe has remained largely disadvantaged over the years.
While commending Governor Uzodinma for his achievements in security and infrastructure, OZOPROF urged him to consider the request of Okigwe Zone as a way of restoring balance, strengthening unity and ensuring a peaceful transition in 2027.
The group said granting Okigwe Zone the opportunity to produce the next Governor would help heal old wounds and reinforce confidence in the principles of justice and equity across Imo State.
OZOPROF reiterated commitment to defending the achievements of his administration and to supporting a transition that promotes equity, peace, and sustainable development for all Imo people.
