Protest have rocked the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State over the alleged imposition of chairmanship candidates ahead of the September 21, 2024, council elections in Imo.
Nigerian Tribune gathered that one of the areas affected is the Oguta Council Area of the state.
Stakeholders of the party under the Oguta Unity Forum, through their spokesperson, Chief Kenneth Obi, said the zoning arrangement was under threat in Oguta, alleging that the nomination of Ifeanyi Nnani as chairmanship candidate was against the zoning arrangement between Oguta North and South.
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He argued that Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, who hails from Oguta North, currently holds a key position in the political equation, with the present House of Assembly member also from the North.
He said this situation has sparked dissatisfaction among party members and residents in Oguta, particularly those from Oguta South, who feel marginalized by the move.
He called on the leadership of the APC in Imo State to uphold the long-standing zoning arrangement in Oguta in the interest of peace and fair play in the LGA.
He said, “Such a move is against the stand of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who had earlier assured party stakeholders of the importance of upholding zoning principles and promoting equity in the selection of candidates for the local government elections.”
According to him, the zoning arrangement ensures that when one section of the LGA produces the House of Assembly representative, the chairmanship position is given to the opposite section.
He added that this system has been crucial in sustaining peace and harmony in the LGA.
He said, “The current discontent centers around the belief that the Agwa people of Oguta South, who have long been contributors to the economic well-being of the state, deserve the position of LGA chairman.
Agwa alone hosts two major oil companies and is one of the leading petroleum-producing areas in Nigeria, significantly bolstering the state’s economy.”
He insisted that denying them this political opportunity, stakeholders argue, would be unjust and could lead to unrest.
Party leaders noted that as the election date draws closer, all eyes are on Governor Uzodimma and the leadership of the APC in Imo State to resolve the issue in a manner that promotes fairness, equity, and peace in Oguta LGA.
He said, “The governor’s ability to mediate this sensitive situation will be crucial in ensuring a peaceful and acceptable outcome for all parties involved.”
TheWitness
