The conversation about who represents Okigwe North Federal Constituency has generated lots of arguments and controversy as the people of Isiala Mbano and Onuimo LGs are laying claims to the exalted position ahead of the 2027 general election.
The Okigwe Zone United Youths Movement in it wisdom decided to ratify the issue that have dominated newspapers headlines and Whatsapp platforms in Okigwe Zone. This is rooted in a clarified and understanding of the historical zoning agreement.
This understanding posited that Isiala Mbano is entitled to an eight-year tenure (2023-2031), meaning Onuimo's turn would begin in 2031, not 2027.
The National President of Okigwe Zone United Youth Movement, Comrade Clinton Chukwuma explained that the core of the argument lies in the specific details of how the rotation has functioned since 1999. According to a historical perspective shows the rotational agreement is not a simple three-way cycle but is understood in distinct phases .
· The First Cycle (1999-2023): This cycle covered 24 years, allowing each of the three LGAs to serve for eight years.
· Onuimo LGA produced the first representative (late Hon. Maurice Ibekwe) .
· Okigwe LGA followed.
· Isiala Mbano LGA took the last slot in this cycle.
· The Second Cycle (Starting 2023): This new 24-year cycle began in 2023, with Isiala Mbano LGA (through the current Rep, Princess Miriam Onuoha) taking the first eight-year slot . In this framework, the tenure of Isiala Mbano is intended to last until 2031.
Therefore, from this perspective, the "second phase" refers to this new 24-year cycle where Isiala Mbano is rightfully first.
Allowing Isiala Mbano LG to complete this phase means respecting the eight-year tenure for each LGA that was established in the first cycle.
They urged political actors from Onuimo to respect this established arrangement and allow peace to prevail in Okigwe North Federal Constituency.
Preserving Political Harmony and Stability: He said that the pre-existing zoning agreement is a "tested mechanism" that ensures inclusion, peace, and political balance within the constituency.
Respecting the eight-year framework is seen as crucial for sustaining this harmony and preventing political discontent.
Thirdly, Ensuring Fairness for All: The historical record cited shows that each LGA, including Onuimo, had its turn in the first cycle. Allowing Isiala Mbano to complete its eight years in the second cycle is framed not as a denial to Onuimo, but as a way to ensure a predictable and fair rotation for all three LGAs over the long term .
Understanding the Current Conversation
It is imperative to State here that this perspective is understandable given the obvious fact that all the critical stakeholders in Okigwe North Federal Constituency are in support that the people of Isiala Mbano Local Government Area are allowed to complete it's second phase of representation in 2027 till 2031 when it will get to Onuimo Local Government.
The argument for Onuimo allowing Isiala Mbano to complete its term in 2027 is not about ceding a turn, but about adhering to a specific, documented rotation schedule where Onuimo's turn is set to begin in 2031.
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