Prince Bob Njemanze, a prominent politician from Imo State, has emphatically stated that the next governor of the state should hail from the Okigwe Zone. In a recent interview, Njemanze highlighted the importance of adhering to the Charter of Equity, emphasizing that Okigwe has only served one gubernatorial term and deserves another to ensure fairness among the state’s zones.
Njemanze argued that recognizing Okigwe’s right to a second term is crucial for maintaining political balance. “My statement was very straight and factual. The first choice is Owerri Zone, but how do we realize it? If we do not recognize that Okigwe has as much right as we do and we generate a situation where Okigwe Zone comes fully into the contest, they will achieve an understanding with Orlu which will cost Owerri the seat.”
He further explained that without acknowledging Okigwe’s claim, the contest could become more complicated, potentially leading to an Orlu Zone candidate securing the governorship. “It will either be that an Okigwe person takes the seat or an Orlu person takes it,” Njemanze asserted.
Reflecting on his previous statements, Njemanze proposed a strategic approach. “I said in my last interview that our best option, without mincing words, is since Okigwe has a candidate that is constitutionally stopped from a second tenure, why don’t we interface with them and agree to have just that one? I felt that was the easiest bargain we would make.”
His call for cooperation and mutual understanding among the zones underscores the need for political harmony and equity in Imo State. Njemanze’s perspective sheds light on the complexities of local politics and the importance of adhering to established agreements to ensure a balanced and fair governance structure.
