Imo Charter of Equity: Addressing Historical Wrongs For A Just And Fair Future
By Uchenna Nwama
Equity and justice are not just ideals; they are principles that must be actively pursued and upheld.
In Imo State, the question of power rotation among the three geopolitical brothers—Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe—has been a contentious issue for decades.
The recent effort by the Imo Elders Council to establish the Charter of Equity is a commendable step in ensuring balanced political representation. However, for this initiative to hold real weight, it must not only look forward but also address the injustices of the past.
Before 2011, an earlier power rotation arrangement was in place, designed to promote inclusivity and fairness among the zones.
However, this arrangement was sabotaged, particularly through misinformation, propaganda, and religious bias. Prominent figures, including Archbishop AJV Obinna, a foremost Owerri man, played instrumental roles in derailing the previous charter, advancing a narrative that was politically and religiously motivated.
Rather than fostering unity, this approach sowed seeds of division, particularly within the Christian community, where leaders fought against fellow Christians simply because they belonged to different denominations.
This raises a fundamental question: where is the true spirit of Christ in our political engagements when religious divisions dictate our leadership choices?
The major casualty of this disruption was Okigwe Zone, which was denied its rightful opportunity to complete a full term in office. Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, a son of Okigwe, was elected governor in 2007 under the then-existing equity arrangement but was prevented from completing his rightful second term due to the political upheaval of 2011.
The consequences of this injustice still linger, leaving many in Okigwe feeling marginalized and politically shortchanged. If we are to genuinely embrace equity, the first step must be to correct past wrongs.
Okigwe deserves to complete its one remaining term before any new rotational structure takes effect. Anything less would amount to institutionalizing injustice under the guise of a fresh start.
A system that ignores past grievances only perpetuates discord and distrust. The Imo Elders Council, in its well-intentioned effort to create a lasting solution, must recognize that sustainable peace and fairness cannot be achieved by sweeping past injustices under the rug.
Owerri Zone, which is now being positioned to take the first turn under the new Charter, was complicit in the truncation of the previous arrangement.
Therefore, it would be fundamentally unfair to allow them to benefit from a process they once undermined, while Okigwe remains sidelined.
The only way to build a just and equitable political system is by acknowledging the past and rectifying its mistakes. This means Recognizing Okigwe’s unfinished term.
The zone should be allowed to produce the next governor for a single term to balance the scales, thereby acknowledging the injustice done to them and Dr. Ikedi Ohakim remains the only person who can guarantee one single term.
Enforcing genuine power rotation. After Okigwe has been fairly compensated, the Charter of Equity should be implemented without bias or manipulation.
Ensuring Commitment from All Zones: Orlu, Owerri, and Okigwe must all sign an irrevocable agreement to uphold the Charter, preventing future manipulations.
Conclusion
The Imo Charter of Equity presents an opportunity to right historical wrongs and lay the foundation for a more just political future. However, for it to be truly meaningful, it must begin by addressing past injustices—starting with Okigwe Zone’s rightful claim.
The unfinished mandate of Dr. Ikedi Ohakim must be acknowledged and rectified.
Equity is not about convenience; it is about justice. If we are to truly build a united and fair Imo State, then we must first ensure that the debts of the past are settled before charting a new course for the future.
