2015: Elechi’s zoning formula divides Ebonyi

THERE seems to be uneasiness among politicians in Ebonyi State, especially those from Ebonyi South Senatorial Zone, where is it believed that the next governor of the state would emerge from.

The incumbent governor, Chief Martin Elechi had at different fora stressed that power would shift to the zone in the spirit of equity.
At a recent media chat in Abakiliki, Elechi restated that position, putting to rest assumptions that his earlier promises were mere lip service.

Paulinus-Igwe-Nwagu

“I have stated this in different fora that on the bases of fairness, justice and equity, it is necessary for power to shift to the south as this will create a balance in the distribution of political power in the State,”he stated. This declaration has prompted political heavyweights into restrategising  on how to cash in on the power rotation formula.
Speaking on the matter,  Youth Leader of the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Comrade Chinedu Ogah  commended the governor’s decision.

Governor’s decision
“We the youths are solidly behind Chief Martin Elechi. We will stand by him because he has empowered the youths so much in the state; he is a leader, a statesman and a founding father of Ebonyi State,’’ he noted.

What is however dramatic about the political situation, is the fact that the only two political gladiators, who had  made known their intention to participate in the race are from Ebonyi North and Central senatorial districts.

They are  Senator Anthony Agbo and  Senator Paulinus Nwagu.
The duo, who frowned at the purported zoning arrangement  are upbeat about their chances.
For  Nwagu,  zoning formula is alien to the  constitution of the  PDP, describing it as the ideology of political weaklings.

“In democracy, there are two principles: freedom and participation. This gives rise to a democratically elected government. I have said this before and would still repeat it again, zoning is for weaklings. It has not been discussed in Ebonyi.  I am a lawmaker, I know what I am saying,’’ he noted.

In addition, Nwagu said: “Zoning is for those who are not ready to serve the state. If you are ready, come out and say what you can do. One should not wait to be given Governor even those that want to be councillors should come out and showcase their plans. If Obama, a black American can win his country’s presidential election, why shouldn’t I, an Ezza man and a Nigerian not be allowed to contest for the governorship.’’

Continuing, he said, ‘’are we going to sacrifice efficiency on the platter of zoning? The state is young and we need to stabilize. Anybody discussing zoning is selfish. I have not even heard the governor talk about zoning. I have been in politics for 36 years and I know what I am talking about. If it has ever been discussed, I will be the first to canvass for it. The PDP has never discussed it. In 1998, before the 1999 elections, nobody talked about zoning.In 2007, there was still no zoning.’’

“Agboti from the south contested but Elechi from central won. I know what our people need. We don’t need a weak Governor. We need someone who will improve the already existing structures.

By the time am elected, you will see the difference. I know this because I am equal to the task. If you know me very well, you will know that I don’t talk anyhow. If I say something, I stand by it and if am determined to do something, I will do it. I said it and the media carried the news. I am ready to serve the state because I have the capabilities. I have served in most political capacities and it is one area I also want to serve in and that is being the Governor of Ebonyi state.’’

Singing same tune,  Agbo stressed that Elechi’s pronouncement can not stop any politician from contesting.
Agobo said: ‘’I Senator Anthony Agbo has a secret. I have been given a key to a hall of secrets were great treasures are packed. The  treasure will one day shall bring even the most powerful of this world to gather in this tiny state and raise their hands in adoration to the eternal God.

PROF. ONYEBUCHI CHUKWU

“I have fed the hungry, empowered the poor, taken care of the weak and disabled. I have paid school fees for countless many, provided free health services for the sick, I have secured employment for many, built up people who hitherto had no hope of rising up in life and guided and inspired the youths on the part of godliness, vision, success and greatness.”

It remains a surprise that the duo are the only visible aspirants, whereas in other states of the federation, robust political activities have since commenced. So far, there is no single billboard,  poster or radio jingles, suggesting that politicians from the South are battle ready to participate in the exercise.

Though there are speculations that they  are either consulting with prominent stakeholders or perhaps afraid to declare their intention in order not to offend the incumbent. Given that the PDP primaries is scheduled to hold next month, observers are  worried why people of the southern zone are yet to make known their aspiration.

However,  those rumoured to be eyeing Elechi’s seat include:  former and present deputy governors of the state, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu and Engr, Dave Umahi,  Dr. Paul Okorie, Mr. Dave Nwachukwu,  Chief Aja Nwachukwu, Minister of Health; Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Obinna Ogba and  Commissioner for Finance, Chief Timothy Odaah among others.

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