By Kelechi Iwuchukwu
A FAMILY AFFAIR THAT NEEDS HEALING
For decades, Okigwe and Owerri zones shared a brotherly bond that shaped the politics of Imo State. Both zones stood together in friendship and cooperation, respecting each other’s place in the zoning arrangement. Unfortunately, that harmony suffered strain in 2011, when events surrounding the truncation of Dr. Ikedi Ohakim’s administration altered the political equation.
Since then, what should have remained a family affair has too often turned into public quarrels — with counter-accusations, sponsored attacks, and political “attack dogs” widening the gap between two natural allies. Sadly, the only beneficiaries of this division have been those outside the Okigwe–Owerri partnership.
It is time to shield the sword, heal the wounds, and return to the path of friendship.
NO NEED FOR BLAME — ONLY THE WAY FORWARD
We are not here to apportion blame or reopen old wounds. We all know where the rain started beating us. What matters now is finding a way forward that restores fairness and equity in Imo State.
- Owerri must recognize that Okigwe’s tenure was cut short in 2011.
- Okigwe must also engage Owerri with humility, openness, and sincerity of purpose.
- Orlu, having benefitted the most, should also apply wisdom by supporting this process of restoration.
This is not about personalities or grudges. It is about equity and justice. Today, that equity naturally favours Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, whose tenure was prematurely truncated.
WHY OKIGWE AND OWERRI MUST EMBRACE EACH OTHER
If Okigwe and Owerri continue to quarrel, Orlu will keep consolidating its dominance while both zones remain marginalized. But if they unite, they can restore balance to Imo politics.
We must remember the friendship and mutual trust that existed before 2011. That bond is not dead; it can be revived. And, revival begins with wisdom, fairness, and peaceful dialogue.
THE ROLE OF ORLU IN RESTORING BALANCE
We acknowledge the political strength and contributions of Orlu zone. Having produced governors for over 22 years, Orlu has become the pillar of Imo politics. But true leadership is not measured only by how much power one has held but also by how one uses that influence to promote fairness and unity.
Since the truncation of the charter of equity began in 2011, Orlu is uniquely placed to lead the effort of restoring it. By supporting Okigwe to complete its interrupted tenure, Orlu will not only strengthen the unity of the state but also demonstrate statesmanship and fairness.
This gesture will heal wounds, win the admiration of all, and cement Orlu’s place in history as a zone that used its influence to restore balance.
OHAKIM AS A SYMBOL OF BALANCE
Dr. Ikedi Ohakim represents more than Okigwe. He is the unfinished chapter of Imo’s democratic journey. Supporting him today is not just about an individual but about correcting a structural imbalance that has weakened unity among the zones.
By allowing Okigwe to complete its second term through Ohakim, Owerri will gain a trusted partner for the future, and Orlu will write its name in gold as the zone that helped restore the broken bridge of equity.
A CALL TO THE YOUTHS
Our elders may have their differences, but the future belongs to the youths of Okigwe, Owerri, and Orlu.
We call on Owerri youths to rise above old grievances and see the bigger picture of equity and fairness.
We call on Okigwe youths to approach this struggle with humility, diplomacy, and respect.
We call on Orlu youths to embrace statesmanship, knowing that their zone has had the lion’s share of power, and it is now noble to support restoration.
If the youths of these three zones come together with wisdom and mutual respect, no political manipulation can divide us again. Together, we can write a new story of equity for Imo State.
In conclusion, let us not dwell on counter-accusations or engage in needless provocations. Let us shield the sword, embrace dialogue, and act with wisdom.
- Okigwe and Owerri must unite to restore equity.
- Orlu must demonstrate fairness by standing at the forefront of the restoration process.
- The youths must take the lead in building peace and healing old wounds.
History will not remember who attacked who. It will remember who acted with wisdom, who chose peace over rancour, and who restored equity when it mattered most.
Let us build bridges, not walls. Let us heal old wounds, not open new ones. Let us rally around Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, the bridge of equity, and move forward together as one family.
