The Paramount Traditional Ruler of Isiama Autonomous Community in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State and President of Okigwe Elders Global Forum, Eze Oliver Ohanweh, has declared that Okigwe Zone remains highly marginalized and deserves the opportunity to produce the next governor of the state in 2028.
Speaking today on Ozisa FM in Owerri, in relation to a recent prayer summit held at the residence of Chief Tony Chukwu, the monarch explained that the gathering was convened to seek divine intervention for Okigwe Zone ahead of the 2028 governorship election.
According to him, the summit, which reportedly attracted over 5,000 participants, was a spiritual move to ask God to empower the zone to realize its governorship aspiration in line with the state’s zoning expectations.
“Going by rotation, it is Okigwe’s turn,” the royal father stated, emphasizing that equity and fairness as encapsulated in the Imo Charter of Equity support the zone’s claim.
He added that Okigwe possesses capable and competent individuals who can change the political narrative of the state.
Eze Ohanweh further argued that considerations of fairness should take into account the existing structural advantages within the state.
He noted that Owerri Zone already hosts the state capital, which translates into the concentration of major government institutions and a significant share of infrastructural projects domiciled in the zone.
He maintained that granting Okigwe Zone the governorship in 2028 would strengthen balance and reinforce unity across the three senatorial zones of the state.
Eze Ohanweh also praised respected Imo politicians, including Chief Tony Chukwu and Chief Longers Anyanwu, describing them as prominent sons who have consistently advocated for the advancement and fair representation of Okigwe Zone.
He further expressed confidence in the ongoing rehabilitation efforts within the zone and commended the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodinma, noting that the people of Okigwe have strong faith in his administration.
The monarch revealed that the prayer initiative coincides with the Lenten season, with participants embarking on fasting and spiritual supplication for the realization of their aspiration.
“We will continue calling on God because He is our last hope and can never fail us,” he said.
He also used the opportunity to thank traditional rulers across the state as well as members of the clergy for their support, prayers, and commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence in Imo State.
He emphasized that the prayer movement remains open to all sons and daughters of Okigwe Zone, stressing that the ultimate goal is peace, fairness, and progress across Imo State.
“In the end, what we all desire is peace and development for Imo State,” he concluded.
