The Owerri Zone Progressives Forum (OZOPROF) has reaffirmed its position that the governorship of Imo State should shift to Okigwe Zone in 2027, insisting that such a move is in the interest of equity, balance, and long-term political stability in the state.
In a statement signed by its NationalCoordinator, Dr. Chibuike Onyeoziri, the group dismissed allegations from some political leaders in Owerri Zone that it was attempting to derail the zone’s quest to produce the next governor of Imo State.
According to OZOPROF, claims of “progress” being made by certain leaders of the zone are “a big illusion,” adding that many of those spearheading the agitation are doing so for personal gain rather than genuine regional interest.
“Nothing can be further from the truth. What we have witnessed is a continued mockery of our people caused by a lack of tact and decorum from those claiming to be the arrowheads of the movement,” the statement read.
The group accused some leaders of Owerri Zone of exhibiting an “entitlement mentality,” which it said has been repeatedly cautioned against by Governor Hope Uzodimma, who reportedly told them that “power is never given turn by turn.”
OZOPROF noted that Governor Uzodimma, during a meeting with Owerri Zone leaders on August 20, 2025, warned that Okigwe Zone had the capacity to frustrate Owerri’s efforts if it was not carried along in the power-sharing discussions.
The Forum maintained that it was formed to “save Owerri Zone from a disastrous and disgraceful outing in 2027” and to reassure the youths of the zone that their political future extends beyond the next election cycle.
“We advise our elders to toe the more reasonable line by allowing Okigwe Zone to take the governorship for one term between 2027 and 2031 for the sake of fairness and equity,” Dr. Onyeoziri stated.
OZOPROF also accused a clique within the zone—referred to as the “Emekuku cabal”—of witch-hunting members of the forum and attempting to identify the signatories to its earlier press statement. The group said it remained undeterred and revealed plans to seek an audience with Governor Uzodimma soon.
The Forum rejected the accusation of being spoilers, insisting that its position represents the interest of the wider Owerri populace, particularly the youth, as opposed to the “selfish agenda of a few political elders.”
Citing a recent commentary by Mr. Amanze Nwachukwu from Ikeduru Local Government Area, OZOPROF echoed the argument that allowing Okigwe Zone to complete a full term would restore political balance and create a fair rotation pattern among the three senatorial zones of the state.
The group also urged traditional rulers to disregard attempts to drag them into the controversy, refuting claims that monarchs had symbolically endorsed Owerri Zone’s governorship bid.
“Our findings show that no such endorsement took place. Those spreading that claim are merely demonstrating desperation and desecrating the sacred authority of our royal fathers,” the statement said.
OZOPROF concluded by calling on the youths of Owerri Zone to resist manipulation by politicians “whose interest in 2027 is driven purely by personal ambition,” while pledging to collaborate with youths from Orlu and Okigwe Zones to support Governor Uzodimma’s efforts in fostering unity and political stability in Imo State.
