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  • Abia 2015: ‘Ukwa-Ngwa is building consensus’

    Abia 2015: ‘Ukwa-Ngwa is building consensus’

    How would Ukwa-Ngwa realise the dream of Abia State power shift in 2015? What are the obstacles to the dream? Theo Nkire, leader of Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals, answers these questions and more. Sam Egburonu reports

    THERE are concerns that the silence of Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals on the positions of different groups on the Abia 2015 governorship race indicates challenges of realising the dream.

    That is not true. There are no serious challenges to our realising the dream.  Ukwa-Ngwa people are united in their quest for an Abia governor of Ukwa-Ngwa extraction in 2015.  This is not to say there will not be dissenting voices.  There surely will be.  We have no reason to antagonise them.  After all, this is democracy and they are entitled to their opinion.

    Has Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals given up on Abia South producing the governor of Abia State in 2015?

    How can?  Impossible! Except for the fear of appearing immodest, I can say that Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals are at the forefront of the movement for the actualisation of the dream.  We lead the way.

    Does that mean the agitation for an Abia governor of Ukwa-Ngwa origin is still on course?

    Yes, very much so; and it will remain on course until the battle is won, until an Ukwa-Ngwa son or daughter is governor in 2015.

    Why then are so many Ngwa people opposed to the governorship being zoned to Abia South Senatorial District?

    So many?  It is not true.  They are not many.  They are very few; a negligible few.  To be fair to them, quite a good number of those who at first were fizzled by the announcement are now back in our fold.  They now understand that it is only fair for power to shift to Abia South.  Do not forget that these are very intelligent people.  As the days go by, we shall continue to plead with them and I am confident that before the party primaries, we shall all be singing with one voice again.  We are not sleeping.  We are working very hard to bring all dissenting voices back.

     Take Senator Nkechi Nwaogu for example; as far as I am concerned, she is an Ngwa woman in and out; any day, anytime, anywhere.  Nkechi is not from Abia South; she is from Abia Central; and there lies the problem but when the time comes, Nkechi will be the true Ngwa daughter that she is.  No one loves Ngwaland the way she does.  For her and for us, it is painful that we appear to be on different sides on the issue of Abia South; but that will soon be history.  Trust me.

    She is not just our daughter; she is also our wife; married to Dr. Nwaogu, a highly respected Ngwa son, the first Igbo man to earn a PhD in Polymer Science.

    Some argue that the division among Ngwa people on zoning would cost Ukwa-Ngwa the governorship. No, it cannot.  Ngwa people have never been as united as they are on the issue.

    Why then is there confusion among Ngwa people about the zoning?

    There is no confusion.  It is not easy to build a consensus.

    How can Abia Charter of Equity which pre-dated creation of Abia State still be relevant to 2015?

    The beauty of the Charter is that it is eternal; it is forever.  It is founded on equity, justice and fairness. So, it can never grow old.

    There are many interpretations of the Abia Charter of Equity, how does the Charter relate to the 2015 contest?

    There may be a thousand interpretations of the Charter but only one can be correct and that is the interpretation that calls for equity in the distribution of government business equally between Aba and Umuahia; between old Aba Division and old Bende Division. That is the only interpretation that is correct.  That is the only interpretation that works.

    And how does the Charter work today?

    Abia State as we know it today is made up of three zones  Abia North, Abia Central and Abia South.  Power went to Abia North in 1999 and Orji Uzor took the slot.  Eight years later in 2007, power shifted from Abia North to Abia Central and Ochendo took it.  Now tell me; what is wrong with power shifting from Abia Central to Abia South in 2015?  In all honesty, is this not the natural progression of things?  Is this not how things work in real life: From North to Central and then to South?  Will a shift from Umuahia North (Ochendo’s local government area) in Abia Central to Isiala Ngwa North or Isiala Ngwa South or Osisioma also in Abia Central be power shift?  I do not think so.

    It will be stupid of me to say that my brothers from Isiala Ngwa who dispute the shift from Abia Central to Abia South are unreasonable.  No, they are not being unreasonable.  They are well within their rights to say so.  They are not against the Charter.  Their argument is that the Charter talks of two zones  Aba and Umuahia; not three  Abia North, Abia Central and Abia South.  They argue it is the turn of Aba (Ukwa-Ngwa) and that they, being an integral part of Ukwa-Ngwa, should not be zoned out. Indeed, that they should take first; Isiala Ngwa being the first among Ngwa local governments.  Great reasoning!  And what is the argument on the other side?

    We have come a long way from the days of Dr. Jaja Wachuku and his brother Michael Okpara.  Abia may be made up of two peoples, the old Bende and the old Aba; but the reality on the ground is that there are three political zones in Abia today and that political offices are best distributed along those lines.  It may be painful to my brothers from Abia Central to tell them that Ochendo has taken their slot; but that is the gospel truth.

    The second point that must be made is that this is not an Ngwa affair.  It is not even an Ukwa-Ngwa affair.  We are here talking about the office of governor of Abia State.  If it were an Ngwa affair of course, Isiala-Ngwa would take first.  Ngwa people are the offspring of a man called Ngwa.  Ngwa had three sons.  The first was Ukwu, the second was Nwoha and the third was Avosi.  History has it that upon arrival in the present Ngwaland, they first settled in Umuolike near Okpuala Ngwa.  From there, they moved first north and then south to populate what is today known as Ngwaland.  This is why Okpuala Ngwa is to this day the traditional headquarters of Ngwa people.  This is why many Ngwa people in the other five local governments of Aba North, Aba South, Obingwa, Osisioma and Ugwunagbo can still trace their roots to one or other of the three foremost sons of our great progenitor, the man called Ngwa.

    So, ideally, Isiala Ngwa should take first, if the office of governor was ours to give.  That is what our tradition demands.  That is what we would have done if we had the powers.  Indeed, the office is beyond what we as Ngwa people can give.  This is why we plead with our older brothers from Isiala Ngwa that they should show that magnanimity and candour that only first sons are blessed with to their younger brothers in Abia South.  Abia South shall not forget.  Abia South will always remember!

  • Abia 2015: Zoning of governorship seat splits Ngwa Lawyers Forum

    The progressive group of Ngwa Lawyers Forum (NLF) has distanced itself from recent newspaper reports alleging that the umbrella body of its association has thrown its weight behind zoning the gubernatorial position in the state to Abia South Senatorial zone.

    In a statement signed by the Interim Chairman, Chief Okey Onwukwe, and Interim General Secretary, Jiakponna , the group said there is no iota of truth in the stories making the rounds currently and therefore called on Abia people to disregard such report because it did not represent the position of NLF on the controversial issue of zoning in the state.

    ‘’We the progressive group of Ngwa Lawyers Forum has surprisingly noted series of publications of mischievous resolution supporting zoning of governorship position in the state to Abia South Senatorial zone which does not represent the position of NLF.’’

    Describing the development as misleading, the statement further said that those behind the reports were mischief makers who are plotting to use the good name of the association as a platform to perpetrate their selfish interests.

    The statement however, disclosed that the only zoning arrangement endorsed by the NLF is that power should rotate along the lines of either Ukwa Ngwa or old Aba division respectively.

    According to the statement, NLF was established to promote unity, equity and justice and cannot therefore be associated with acts designed to smear its reputation and discredit its activities.

    The statement noted that the exclusion of Isiala Ngwa North, Isiala Ngwa South and Osisioma Local Government Areas by the current zoning arrangement purportedly endorsed by the leadership of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, amounted to a grand design to undermine the chances of highly qualified Ngwa sons and daughters who have already indicated interest of running for the coveted seat to emerge the next governor of Abia state in the forthcoming election.

    The group, according to the statement has uncovered a plot by what it called paid agents to use misinformation to cause confusion among its members in other to weaken the association’s strength and crash its credibility.

    Emphasising that zoning is an ill wind that will blow no good to Abia politics, the group also reminded the proponents of the exclusion of three local government areas of Ngwa extraction that NLF was built on integrity and would not allow its name to be used to promote injustice and illegality no matter the circumstance.

    It would be recalled that political leaders of Ngwa extraction been divided over recent reports that some elements are insisting that the three local government areas are excluded from PDP’s promise to zone it’s governorship ticket to Ukwa/Ngwa zone.

  • Abia 2015: Our case built on equity – Nkire

    Abia 2015: Our case built on equity – Nkire

    In this interview, Theo Nkire, former Attorney-General of Abia State, makes a case for equity in deciding who becomes Abia State governor in 2015. Sam Egburonu reports

    You are the leader of Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals, what does the organisation represent?

    The organisation is an association of professionals of Ukwa-Ngwa origin who are committed to the development of Abia State, and who share in the conviction that Aba, the famous industrial and commercial hub, holds great potentials to support the development of Abia State.

    The association seeks to achieve the development of the full potentials of Abia State with Aba as a pivot. It also seeks the election of an Abia State Governor of Ukwa-Ukwa extraction who will bring about rapid economic and social development of Abia State with Aba as the economic hub.  To achieve our goals we seek a partnership with the Government of Abia State and leaders of Abia across our state.

    How is it different from other organisations in Ukwa-Ngwa?

    It is a gathering of professionals. Secondly, because we are individuals with no personal political ambitions of our own, our goal is to serve our homeland and our state and we do so using our personal contributions.

    Who are the sponsors of the organisation?

    The Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals, as a group, sponsors itself. It works with resources its members raise. It supports causes it believes in with members’ contributions.

    Why is Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals at the forefront of the agitation for an Ukwa-Ngwa governor?

    Since independence, no person of Ukwa-Ngwa descent has had the opportunity to be Premier of a Region or Governor of our state in Nigeria, not Eastern Region, Imo State or since creation of Abia State. Abia was created from two Senatorial Zones of old Imo State, Aba Senatorial Zone and Umuahia Zone which included Afikpo and Ohaozara (now in Ebonyi State).The Ukwa-Ngwa area is currently made up of nine of the 17 local governments in the state. It is home to more than 60 percent of the state population and it is yet to produce a governor. It is only fair, just and equitable that this happens. Our founding fathers agreed and laid a foundation for fairness and equity in the rotation principle they enshrined in the Abia Charter of Equity. This was the basis for the formation of the state. Those who work to destroy this foundation are against the peace in Abia State and this is why we commend Gov. Theodore Orji for his consistency in affirming this principle of equity and fairness.

    Is it constitutional to zone political office to a particular area?

    I have said before and I will say it again that intrinsic in the federal character provision of the Constitution is the principle of zoning and rotation. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria established the quota system, and even went further to establish a Federal Character Commission to work to ensure equity in the employment and enhancement of public officers, it lays a foundation for each people to co-ordinate their affairs and manage their government in a way to ensure equitable and fair representation. Inherent in this principle is that areas in a state can and have often agreed and zoned offices using the mechanism of political parties because we are in a multi-party democracy.

    What is the Abia Charter of Equity that people keep mentioning in this case?

    The Abia Charter of Equity is a child of circumstance.  After the two Senatorial Districts of Aba and Umuahia of old Imo State decided to seek a state of their own, some disagreement arose between the two brothers that led to the breakaway of a large majority of the Aba people to form a Movement of their own – the Aba State Movement, then led by Dr. George Wigwe.  The Abia Charter of Equity was a fence mending measure adopted by the movement to reassure what remained of the Aba group within its fold that the events that led to the breakup would never arise again.  Indeed, the Abia Charter was extracted from the Umuahia (Bende) group, led by Dr. M. I. Okpara by what remained of the Aba (Ukwa-Ngwa) group. After the breakup, Chief B. A. Wachuku was made Vice Chairman to Dr. Okpara and Dr. Moses Agbara became Secretary. These were measures to re-assure Ukwa-Ngwa of their place in the proposed state.

    The Charter enshrined the principle of equity in distribution of political office and leadership and clearly stated that the position of governor will rotate between the Aba and Bende zones of the state. Unfortunately this agreement was more honoured in breach than the observance until Governor Theodore Ahamefule Orji decided that what is fair is fair and that the peace and development of Abia State required that equity and fairness be respected. He is a man who saw it fit to honour the agreement others chose to break with impunity.

    Does the Charter support the agitation of Ukwa-Ngwa for a governor?

    Of course, it does.  The bedrock of the Charter is equity, justice and fairness.

    What an idea! The Ukwa-Ngwa agitation for fairness and recognition started in colonial times. It came to the fore at the Willink’s Commission 1943 when aggrieved by the injustices of the time our people for the first time in our history were compelled to call for the creation of an Aba State.  So how could the Abia Charter, which came into being almost 40 years later, in 1980, predate our agitation?  Does the Abia Charter support our case?  Of course, it does.  Indeed, in the context of Abia State, the Charter does not only support our case; it is the foundation of our cause.  The Charter is our reference point.  Whenever the leaders neglect to do what is just and equitable, we remind them of the Charter.

    The Charter is about equity, it is about fairness. Our case rests on the fairness of rotating power, which the Charter advocates, now (as the PDP has directed) among our three Senatorial Zones of Abia North (1999-2007), Abia Central (2007-2015) and Abia South from 2015. In Abia State, nobody who supports equity, fairness and justice would support that the governor should come from any zone other than Abia South.

    What is your reaction to the fears of some that an Ukwa-Ngwa governor would marginalise other parts of the state?

    That fear is laughable.  Ukwa-Ngwa people are traditionally a peace loving and hospitable people.  We extend our goodwill to all; with malice towards none.  What powers do we have to marginalise anyone?  He who wants equity must do equity.  He who comes to equity must come with clean hands.  Ukwa-Ngwa people want equity and they have come with clean hands; with malice towards none.

    We are in a democratic dispensation. The government has three arms; an Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary. We have freedom of the press and courts, which settle disputes in Nigeria and Abia State. This is not a military regime with its hierarchical and command structure. A governor who does not do well can be impeached as we are beginning to see all over.  As a group, we will not support a governor from anywhere in Abia State who incites divisions among our people.

    How have Ukwa-Ngwa addressed these fears?

    The Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals, as a group, has continued to consult with leaders of other communities in Abia, and to discuss, evaluate and allay these fears. This is why we have proposed to work with different groups and of course with the political leadership in the state, which is well disposed to ensure that no mistakes are made in this regard.

    There are fears that Ukwa-Ngwa is divided over who will become the next governor and this could scuttle the agitation.

    It is not true. Ukwa-Ngwa is united in the quest for a governor of Ukwa-Ngwa descent in 2015. Who among us would be the governor is a different matter. Political office is occupied through political contest.  A multi-party democracy is intended to create competition. Though it has been zoned to Abia South, the office of governor by our Constitution will be competitively sought. The huge interest is natural, it is expected, and it is not strange, but as the days go by, you will see that the selection process will continue to reduce the contestants until we all select one through the polls to be our governor.

    What deal did Ukwa-Ngwa reach with Governor Theodore Orji that make him support the agitation?

    None that I know of; if you know any, please tell me.

    Some say you offered him the Abia Central Senatorial seat to support the Ukwa-Ngwa cause?

    The Abia Central seat is not ours to give.  We are a state made up of different peoples. Politics is not a zero sum game; it is a give and take game. We preach equity and fairness, which means that you do not only consider your interest but you consider that of other groups. Abia Central Senatorial Zone is made up of six local governments – three from Ukwa-Ngwa and three from Umuahia. The local governments from Umuahia are entitled to produce a Senator for the zone, under an arrangement that enables the senatorial seat to rotate between Ukwa-Ngwa and Umuahia. This fair arrangement has been in place since 1999. We are a fair people; we come to equity with clean hands. We need to be commended rather than vilified.

    To answer you directly, the Abia Central seat is not ours to give.  You cannot give what you do not have. Ochendo is a great son of Abia State.  If he expresses interest, when the time comes, you can be in no doubt the support he will get will be overwhelming.  The Ukwa-Ngwa local governments will all support him and the entire Abia Central Senatorial Zone will support him.

    What is the Ukwa-Ngwa Professionals’ position on politicians outside Ukwa-Ngwa contesting the governorship?

    It is undemocratic to shut anyone out in a political contest.  In Jos in 1998, people like Abubakar Rimi from Kano State contested the presidential primaries of the PDP though the position was zoned to the South. The important thing is for the party to do the needful. You leave the rest to the individuals concerned.  In our case, the party has done the right thing by zoning the position of governor to Abia South.  It is fair, it is just; it is equitable.

    As a group and as a people, Ukwa-Ngwa is pleading with our brothers and sisters from Abia North and Abia Central to please, toe the party line.  As loyal party members, they should obey the party and work together with us to achieve success.  Without them, we cannot defeat the opposition.  We must all work together in the PDP family to win.  When next it is their turn, we promise to do the same; support them to win.

    What is in this struggle for you as an individual?

    Oh, my God!  A great deal.  A whole lot.  There is so much in it for me as an individual.  First, there is the joy, that ‘joy that passeth understanding’; the joy that in my lifetime, one of our own will be piloting the ship of state in Abia.  Then my name will be AHUKANNA; for I would have seen more than Dr.  Jaja Wachuku, I would see more than De George (Dr. George Wigwe) would.  I would have seen more than Hon. H. M. J. Wachukwu.  I would have seen more than my great friends and compatriots Engr. Frank Uzoma Azuogu, Diwa (Chief Enyinnaya Ihediwa) Dr. Nwanganga Ubani-Ukoma and the many others who were in the struggle with us but are no more with us today.  My new name will be AHUKANNA; but I will still be in good company: Emma Adaelu will still be around, God willing.  So will Dr. Asobie, Oji Alala and the numerous other people who have been with us from the beginning and those who have joined us over the years.

    For me, the joy will be that in my lifetime Aba can assume its rightful place as the Japan of Africa. I weep whenever I hear people born in Aba, but of Nnewi parentage, refer to Nnewi as the Japan of Africa – a name specifically coined for Aba by our leader, Dr. George Azubuine Wigwe, in view of the then emerging indigenous technology for which Aba had become so very well-known across Africa and the world.  What do they know about the name?  Aba shall return!  The Japan of Africa will rise again!

    My joy shall know no bounds when I find myself part of a new Abia State wherein the new governor, building on the solid foundations laid by his predecessors will embark on an all rounded development of our state with Aba as the focal point, the fulcrum of that development project.

    How would you react to the thinking that you are priming yourself to be the godfather of the Ukwa-Ngwa Governor?

    You have to be a god before you become a godfather.  Luckily, for me, I am not a god. I cannot become a godfather.  This generation of Ukwa-Ngwa people is not looking for a leader.  This generation of Ukwa-Ngwa people is blessed with great leaders. In April 2006, we, the leaders, chose one of our own, Elder Emmanuel Onyemaobi Adaelu, as leader of the Ukwa-Ngwa people. He is a great leader.  I adore him.  I respect him.  He has led us ever since.  I am confident, it will be his greatest joy (just as it will be mine, too) to live to see that day – 29 May 2015  – when an Ukwa-Ngwa son or daughter will be sworn in as governor of Abia State.

    Godfather?  Never.  I do not even think of it.  God is the one I worship; in whom I live and have my being. Godfather?  No. Never. Father?  Sure, of great men and women who love me and I love them too.

    What would be Ukwa-Ngwa reaction in 2015 if it does not produce the governor? 

    Ukwa-Ngwa shall produce the governor of Abia State in 2015, God willing.  See how it works.  The PDP has zoned the position to Abia South.  We are working hard to see that the other two important parties in the state namely the APC and APGA do the same.  We are already in consultation with the leadership of those parties. If we succeed in those negotiations, then it means the candidates of the three major parties in the state will be Ukwa-Ngwa people and whoever wins then will be Ukwa Ngwa.

    This is as far as human reasoning and human ability go; but God is the ultimate giver of power.  He gives it to whoever He desires.  Our simple prayer today is that He may give it to Ukwa-Ngwa in 2015.

  • Abia 2015: Tough fight ahead for Chukwumerije’s seat

    The race for Abia North Senatorial seat, currently occupied by Senator Uche Chukwumerije, is heating up even as feelers confirm that the Chairman, Senate Committee on Education, is still interested in picking  the PDP ticket in the zone in 2015. Associate Editor, Sam Egburonu, in this report, attempts to capture the build- up intrigues within PDP.

    Since he won his first electoral victory as the senator representing Abia North Senatorial District on the ticket of Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) in April 2003, Senator Uche Chukwumerije has held forth, winning all the senatorial elections in the area.

    His greatest challenge came when he fell out of favour with the party’s leadership, following his opposition of the third term agenda of the then president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Chukwumerije eventually decamped to the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) in 2006 and was reelected to the Senate in April 2007.

    The current chairman of the Senate Committee on Education, who served as Minister of Information in the dying days of the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida and as Minister of Information in the Interim National Government of Chief Ernest Shonekan, was again reelected on the PDP platform in the April 2011 elections.

    But as the 2015 senatorial election approaches, some forces within PDP are gathering to claim the seat from Chukwumerije, who is believed to be interested in retaining it.

    Abia North, is made up of Arochukwu, Bende, Isiukwuato, Ohafia and Umunneochi council areas. Chukwumerije hails from Umunneochi Local Government Area.

    It would be recalled that between 1999, when Nigeria returned to elective democracy and 2003, the senatorial zone was represented at the upper chamber by former military governor of old Imo State and former Minister of External Affairs, General Ike Nwachukwu, who hails from Isuikwuato Local Government Area. He was succeeded by Chukwumerije from Umunneochi, who has retained the job since then.

    The  2015 challenge

    Some political and traditional rulers in Ohafia Local Government Area, which claims to have consistently given Chukwumerije the highest bloc votes, have come out to declare their interest in the senatorial seat.

    Some sources allege that the attitude of these leaders towards the candidature of Chukwumerije in 2015 has changed tremendously since February this year, when some stakeholders from Ohafia Local Government Area, made public their determination to take the seat from the incumbent and to promote the candidature of the Managing Director of Trans Atlantic Agency Limited (TASAL), Chief Uche Ohafia.

    The Nation investigation reveals that it all began at a meeting of traditional rulers and some leaders of thought of Ohafia, on November 20, 2013, in the palace of Ebiri of Elu and Ezie Ohafia Udumeze, at Elu Ohafia.

    According to an insider, “It was there that the elders of Ohafia agreed to support Chief Ohafia for the senatorial seat of Abia North in 2015.”

    According to our source, most of the speakers at the meeting alleged that since Chukwumerije has been representing them at the Senate, he has not attracted enough federal government presence at Ohafia Local Government.

    TASAL boss, Chief Ohafia himself was quoted recently as explaining to newsmen why his people want a change and why they want one of their own to occupy the seat in Abuja. “Nobody can say why he has failed to show his presence, why people cannot reap the benefit of his representation. Ohafia people are most affected, that is why they are crying out. Ohafia people want somebody to be there, at least for once. We have never had somebody there. Chukwumerije may have done well in other areas, but as it concerns Ohafia, he has not done well. Everybody is crying out, including myself, so we need a change. When you go down there (Ohafia), you would see what I mean. Go to Ohafia and see what is happening there. There seems to be no representation from the National Assembly. Uche Chukwumerije has not done enough for Nde Ohafia; I don’t know why. But he is somebody I admire, even during the war. In fact, he was my hero during and after the war when he was Minister of Information. But I really don’t know what happened with Ohafia. The simple truth is that Ohafia people need somebody to be there,” he said.

    Aside Ohafia, another business executive from Ohafia Local Government Area, whose name has been mentioned in the race for Chukwumerije’s job within the PDP family is Onuoha Ogba, the Managing Director/CEO of Bourdex Nigeria Limited, a telecommunications company. Ogba hails from Abiriba.

    “Although not much may have been said about the senatorial ambition of Bourdex, I can assure you that he has a lot of supporters both in Abiriba and the surrounding communities. Abiriba is one community that has not been given its fare share of political positions in Abia North. We believe the senate seat should be given to our candidate in 2015 as it would help to make up for all the marginalisation of the people of Abiriba since 1999. We have been neglected for too long,” said Onyekwere Oteh, one of the youth leaders in the area.

    Still within PDP, aspirants for the seat have also been identified in other local government areas within Abia North.

    Hon. Moses A. Ohuabunwa (MAO), from Arochukwu Local Government Area, is another top politician that is being linked with the ambition of contesting for Chukwumerije’s seat in 2015. A PDP chieftain, MAO represented Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives in 1999.  He was the Deputy Leader of the House from 1999 – 2003 as well as the Leader of the South East Caucus. He was reelected in 2003 and became the leader of the ECOWAS Parliament till 2007.

    He has since remained active in politics, both in Abia State and at the national evel. For example, in 2011 General Elections, he was made the Director of Contact and Mobilisation of the Abia State PDP and he later became a member of the National Working Committee of PDP.

    His people in Arochukwu are alleging that it is their turn to produce a senator. They, like the Ohafia Local Government and other local government areas, are also alleging that they have not received enough federal government presence directly attributable to Chukwumerij’s representation.

    But Chukwumerije, whose legislative interests, as posted in his official website, include “social welfare and infrastructural development,” has, as his set target, what he described as “dignity of Senate within the framework of constitutional democracy.”

    Using these as a reference point, Chief Uzoma Onyedika, a political scientist and an admirer of Chukwumeri’s style of politics, pointed out that those who are making claims that distinguished senators like Chukwumerije have not performed, on the ground that they have not attracted enough physical federal government sponsored infrastructure, may have missed the point. “The primary duty of a senator is to make good laws that will help the society. If we want to judge any of our senators, it would be fair to base our assessment primarily on their contributions in the law making process.

    “If any of the aspirants argue that it is their turn to produce the next senator, whatever that means, I will say that is another plank of the debate. But if the argument is that a senator’s performance should based on the number roads he built, I take exceptions to that. For Chukwumerije and Abia North politics, the question I will like his critics and those angling to take over his job to answer is, has he failed in his legislative duties? If not, it will be unfair to base agitations to take his seat on the bases of non performance.”

  • Abia 2015: Orji’s senatorial ambition kindles fresh fire

    Abia 2015: Orji’s senatorial ambition kindles fresh fire

    The game of politics in Abia State, which has been rather drab and somehow straight-jacketed for some time now, seems to have received fresh impetus following recent confirmations that GovernorTheodore Ahamefule Orji is poised to retire to the senate at the expiration of his tenure in 2015.

    Although it took some time before his close associates began to own up to the governor’s ambition to vie for the top legislative position, it became obvious to close observers that he had made up his mind to follow this political route when several groups suddenly emerged from the blues, calling on the governor to run for the Aba Central Senatorial seat in 2015 and volunteering to mobilise for the realisation of their dreams.

    The initial reaction of critical observers was a debate as to whether these groups calling on the governor to vie for the legislative office were genuine or whether they were merely rented? Of course, that debate has not been resolved until date.

    But whichever is the truth, it seems certain today that the governor is poised to heed to the desires of the groups and will most likely move over to the Senate when his second tenure expires in 2015.

    As would be expected, and as has been the case in several other states, where second term governors like him are also scheming to proceed to the senate at the end of their tenures, the plan has not only electrified the political theatre of the state, it has also raised questions on the fate of the senator presently occupying the senatorial seat in question and that of the other aspirants from Ngwaland in the power game for Orji’s succession.

    The great call

    Perhaps the first publicly known group to formally call on Orji to vie for the senatorial seat in 2015 was Isiala Ngwa Traditional Rulers Council. The royal fathers made the call way back in July this year, when they paid a courtesy call to the governor at the Government House, Umuahia.

    Chairman of the council, Eze Solomon Nwosu, who spoke on behalf of the other royal fathers, said they had come to show appreciation for the ongoing transformation of the state by Orji’s administration.They thereafter urged him to go to the Senate in 2015 at the expiration of his tenure as governor.

    In his response, Orji assured the traditional rulers of his commitment to hand over power to Abia South Senatorial zone in 2015.

    According to him, “I am the first governor that openly declared that the governorship seat will be rotational. I am here to install equity and fair play in governance.”

    Making references to a ” Charter of Equity,” which he said was drafted after the creation of Abia State, the governor said it was the turn of Abia South Senatorial Zone to produce the next governor, adding that he would ensure he honours the charter. “I want to leave here (Government House) peacefully”; he said.

    Incidentally, the meeting and the promises made by the two parties have since remained subjects of intense criticisms.

    Amongst the critics is a group called Nzuko Igbo USA. In one of the statements it issued, the group warned against what it described as “alleged plans to exchange the governorship position with the senatorial seat.”

    According to the group, part of the plan is that “Orji will take over the Senatorial seat and cede the governorship position to Ukwa- Ngwa/Abia South senatorial zone.”

    It said, “It should be noted that Abia Chatter of Equity is peculiar to the governorship position and its rotation between people of old Bende and Aba Divisions and does not extend to legislative positions,” the group warned, adding, “The Chatter never mentioned about rotating of the governorship among the three senatorial zones.”

    Such criticisms aside, many supporters of the state governor have adduced his achievements as justifications for such future political permutation.

    This explains why the number of groups wooing the governor for the senatorial position has not waned. Instead, they have continued to swell by the day.

    A source close to Abia State chapter of Peoples Democratic Party confided during the week that “any politician or aide that is worth that name in the state must fully identify with the senatorial ambition of His Excellency. For us that arrangement is sealed. There is no going back. Ochendo will hand over power and proceed uninterrupted to the upper legislative house.”

    Aside party officials and political office holders, whose endorsement of the governor is no longer a secret, several other organised groups, especially from Ngwaland are also emerging almost every other week to add their voices to the declared ambition.

    For example, one of such groups known as Ukwa/Ngwa Interest Group recently boasted that it would mobilize about 5,000 youths to help realise the governor’s ambition.

    Comrade Okey Paul Nwankwo, the National Coordinator of the group, said:

    “There is no doubt that every senatorial zone will send their best to represent them in national assignments. This is why we are calling on Gov. Theodore Orji to run for the Abia Central Senatorial seat in 2015… We are set to mobilize 5,000 youths for him.”

    Internal intrigues

    Among Ngwa people both within Abia Central and Abia South senatorial zones, there are very strong political opponents determined to rubbish the governor’s senatorial ambition, especially because of the alleged fear that it is intricately connected to the power game for Orji’s successor at the Government House, Umuahia, by 2015.

    A source, from Abia Central, who pleaded not to be named but who is a top stakeholder in the 2015 senatorial election in Abia, explained why he considers Orji’s plan to contest for the senatorial seat as worrisome when he said: “The Senatorial position of Abia Central has somehow been rotated between the Umuahians and the Ngwa peope since 1999. You will recall that Senator Bob Nwannunu, an Ngwa man, held the position between 1999 and 2003. Senator Chris Adighije, from Umuahia held the position between 2003 and 2007 and now Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, an Ngwa lady has been holding the office from 2007 to 2011 and from 2011 till date. So, you can understand why the alleged Orji’s senatorial ambition is considered a threat to Ngwa people in Abia Central who have ambitions in 2015. If Orji bulldozes his way and runs for the senate seat, the fate of the Ngwa people in Abia Central, who would want to be governor will be affected negatively. That is our concern,” the source said.

    Ngwa aspirants on the succession bid

    Although the 2015 governorship election campaign has not been declared open, and although aspirants from Abia North Senatorial Zone and from other communities in Abia State have not totally withdrawn interest from the race, prominent aspirants from Ngwaland have already lined up, creating the impression that the contest is theirs exclusively.For now, the major aspirants from Ngwaland alone include:

    Enyinnaya Abaribe

    Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, an economist, teacher and strong grassroots politician, is a one-time deputy governor of Abia State under the then Governor Orji Uzor Kalu. A two term serving senator and current chairman of the Senate Committee on Media, Information and Public Affairs, Abaribe is believed to be a strong contender to be the next governor of the state.

    He is from Abia South Senatorial Zone and of Ngwa stock, which has continued to make the case that it should be their turn to produce the next governor of the state.

    But his major drawbacks may include the Orji Uzor Kalu factor and the interest of his fellow kinsman, Chief Emeka Nwogu.

    Since the icy relationship between Abaribe and Kalu has not been resolved, it is feared that PDP would be concerned that Kalu may pose as a threat against Abaribe’s candidacy.

    Emeka Nwogu

    The ambition of Chief Emeka Nwogu, who is a two-term serving Minister of Labour and Productivity, is no longer a secret.

    The Nation learnt that Nwogu’s strongest point in his bid to secure the governorship ticket of the People’s Democratic Party is his closeness to President Goodluck Jonathan.

    Nwogu’s wife, who is an Ijaw, from Jonathan’s home state, is alleged to be well connected and as such, is one of his strongest pillars.

    Nkechi Nwogu

    Some of the strong points of Senator Nkechi Nwogu, the PDP senator representing Abia Central, include the alleged pact to exchange seats with Governor Theodore Orji and her experience in Abia grassroots politics.

    A former member of the House of Representatives, Nwogu is today a two- term serving senator.

    She is believed to enjoy overwhelming support of youths and women but it remains to be seen where all these would take her to in the succession power game.

    Her strongest opposition, according our sources, would be the argument among Abia South political lords that no Ngwa man or woman from T.A Orji’s area, Abia Central Senatorial zone, should contest on PDP ticket in the interest of equity.

    The others:

    Other known possible contenders from Ngwaland include, Eric Acho Nwakanma, from Abia South Senatorial zone, who has served as a Speaker of the state House of Assembly and twice as a deputy governor in the state.

    Others are Chris Akomas, from Nenu in Obingwa Local Government, who served as Commissioner for Commerce and Industries under Orji Uzor Kalu before he became the deputy governor of the state in a joint ticket with T. A Orji after the 2007 election.

    Another major Ngwa aspirant is Chief Reagan Ufomba who was Special Assistant (SA) to former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu. In 2011 governorship election, Ufomba left the PDP to realise his governorship ambition in APGA. He won APGA’s ticket but lost the election. Today, it is said that he is still preparing for the race in 2015.

    But Ufomba’s major challenge may include the fact that he is from Nsulu in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government which falls under Abia Central, the same as Theodore Orji and the recent problems in APGA, as he reportedly pitched camp with the then Governor Peter Obi/Maxi Okwu faction of APGA against Chief Victor Umeh. With the current developments, the platform Ufomba would use to realise his ambition will still be unveiled in the future.

    We cannot forget that names like Stanley Ohajuruka, a former Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly and a former member of the House of Representatives is being mentioned. Also, Uzo Azubuike, who has represented Aba North and Aba South in the House of Representatives and Paul Ikonne, a prince from Ngwaland, who is the son of Eze Isaac Ajuonu, are also being touted.

  • Abia 2015: group endorses Anyim for governor

    A group, the New Abia Movement, has adopted Dr. Nyerere Anyim for the 2015 governorship election in Abia State.

    Speaking at the end of its meeting held in Aba, the chairman of the group, Mr. Onyebuchi Okorie, said that Anyim is the best aspirant.

    He said that the APGA chieftain possessed the wherewithal and administrative qualities to effect the desired change in the state.

    Stressing the need for a private sector governor, Okorie said: “We have assessed several aspirants for the position, but found Chief Nyerere Anyim fit to govern Abia state. He is a private sector person who boasts of a track record of achievements in all the endeavours he has found himself. So, we are of the view that private persons should be given the chance to govern the state.

    “We have tried core politicians but they have continued to disappoint us. So, Anyim fits the bill. It is not a partisan thing. We carried out our survey on people of all political parties. We call on the people of the state to support his ambition in 2015.”

    The group berated the PDP’s style of leadership stressing thatit has ruined the country.

    The group expressed optimism that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would provide Nigerians the opportunity to experience a new style of leadership.

    “We have lost faith in the PDP, they have been in power for years but the people have continued to wallow in abject poverty in the midst of wealth. It is clear that the salvation of Abia state and the country cannot come from the party.

    “We are hopeful that the registration processes going on between INEC and APC will not be delayed. APC will give Abians and Nigerians the opportunity to taste good governance and enjoy the dividend of democracy to the fullest.” the group stated.

  • Abia 2015: group adopts Anyim for governor

    Abia 2015: group adopts Anyim for governor

    A group, the New Abia Movement, has adopted Dr. Nyerere Anyim for the 2015 governorship election in Abia State.

    Speaking at the end of its meeting held in Aba, the chairman of the group, Mr. Onyebuchi Okorie, said that Anyim is the best aspirant.

    He said that the APGA chieftain possessed the wherewithal and administrative qualities to effect the desired change in the state.

    Stressing the need for a private sector governor, Okorie said: “We have assessed several aspirants for the position, but found Chief Nyerere Anyim fit to govern Abia state. He is a private sector person who boasts of a track record of achievements in all the endeavours he has found himself. So, we are of the view that private persons should be given the chance to govern the state.

    “We have tried core politicians but they have continued to disappoint us. So, Anyim fits the bill. It is not a partisan thing. We carried out our survey on people of all political parties. We call on the people of the state to support his ambition in 2015.”

    The group berated the PDP’s style of leadership stressing thatit has ruined the country.

    The group expressed optimism that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would provide Nigerians the opportunity to experience a new style of leadership.

    “We have lost faith in the PDP, they have been in power for years but the people have continued to wallow in abject poverty in the midst of wealth. It is clear that the salvation of Abia state and the country cannot come from the party.

    “We are hopeful that the registration processes going on between INEC and APC will not be delayed. APC will give Abians and Nigerians the opportunity to taste good governance and enjoy the dividend of democracy to the fullest.” the group stated.

  • Abia 2015 : Will power shift to Aba Division?

    Abia 2015 : Will power shift to Aba Division?

    Ahead of the 2015 general elections, there is the agitation for power to shift to the ‘Aba Division’ of Abia State.  In this report, AUGUSTINE AVWODE examines the issues.

    Politics is in the air in Abia State. There are two political parties battling for the soul of the state; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). However, what will shape the forthcoming governorship contest is zoning or rotational principle agreed upon by the leaders of the state 14 years ago.

    The agreement is enshrined in the famous ‘Abia Charter of Equity’, which stipulates that the governorship should rotate between the “old Bende” and old Aba”. Therefore, in Abia State, the zoning is not based on the three senatorial districts, but on the two critical political blocs.

    It all started in 1981 when the agitation for the creation of the state was at its peak. The elders and leaders of the state who championed the agitation crafted the document to ensure equity, fairness and justice among the two blocs. A provision was made for the rotation of power between the two blocs seeking to merge as a state .

    The dream of the people for a new state came into reality in 1991. The ‘perfect document’, as it was described, was however, jetissoned when civil rule was restored in 1999. The old Bende Division has been producing the governors. Up to now, the governorship has eluded the Aba Division.

    Two months ago, former Senate President Adolphus Wabara stirred the hornets’ nest when he declared that it is the turn of Abia South Senatorial Zone to produce the governor. He spoke at a meeting of the Ukwa Peoples Assembly (UPA), which he hosted in his Ohambele country home. Wabara urged the politicians from the zone to work for the actualisation of power shift.

    “Every where in Nigeria, people are talking about 2015. Yet, we are sitting down here, not doing anything. In politics, one plus one can be zero. When I was the Senate President, I was working towards the goal of an Ukwa man becoming the Governor of this state. But Immediately I was exited, the politics of that time changed because we agreed that we are patient dogs in Abia State.

    “Today, all kinds of things are flying around the whole of Abia State and we cannot keep quiet and allow it. We need to talk as a people. I don’t believe in individualism, I believe in a system. We kept waiting, and we can’t wait for ever. Now it is our turn, the game changed then, but it can no longer change now because it is our turn. Give the Governorship to Abia South come 2015, there is no way anybody can change the game, Theodore Orji knows this.

    “ If he has power to choose, he should choose somebody from Abia South. We, the Ukwa people, support him. What we are asking for must be done for us”, he had challenged the people.

    Problem of identity

    While some people from the state agree with Wabara that the time has come for the next governor to come from the old Aba Division, they faulted his reference to Abia South Senatorial District. A chieftain of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) told The Nation on condition of anonymity that, although Abia State may has three senatorial districts, but for the purposes of actualizing the ‘Abia Charter of Equity’, only two divisions exist in the state, namely ‘Old Bende’ and ‘Old Aba’.

    “One could say that the position of Chief Wabara may be correct to the extent that we all want power to shift, at least for once. But his argument is faulty. As far as anybody in the state is concerned, Old Bende has been in power since 1999 till date. Therefore, at the expiration of the tenure of Governor Theodore Orji, ‘ Aba’ should come into office. Chief Orji Kalu and Chief Orji, as far as I am concerned, are both from Bende” he said.

    There are three senatorial districts in Abia with a total of 17 local government councils. But the problem of categorization arises from the fact that while some local councils in the Bende division fall exclusively into Abia North Senatorial District, and some councils in Aba division fall exclusively into Abia South Senatorial District, the Central Senatorial District is made up of an amalgam of councils from the two blocks of Bende and Aba. Here, there are three local council areas that are made up of people of Ngwa extraction. These are Isiala Ngwa North and South and Osisioma Ngwa which are clearly part of the Aba division.

    The problem of referring to the people here being from Abia Central and at the same time being from Aba division may eventually jeopardize the clamour of the people of Aba to get one of their own into the driving seat in the state.

    The military, which lumped these local government areas together by fiat with part of Bende has been blamed for the political friction it has caused in the state.

    According to the party chieftain, the founders of Abia State freely agreed at the creation of the state that, “for peace, justice, security, fairness and harmony, the governorship should be rotated between Bende Division and the Aba”. He avered that the ‘Charter’ was made before the creation of the state and the coming into existence of the three senatorial districts arrangement. He argued that the founding fathers never envisaged three zones otherwise they would have made provision for it.

    He said if care is not taken, the call for the next governor to come from Abia South Senatorial District could be exploited by those who are waitng in the wings for any slip by the stakeholders from Aba.

    “This call is not only divisive but contentious. To the best of my knowledge, the rallying cry from the Aba division has always been for an Ngwa Man to be governor to ensure that the vision of our founding fathers is realized. Except we are careful, we are going to play into the hands of those who would not want us to realize this dream”, he warned.

    Fromer Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Honourable Chris Eweremadu told The Nation on phone that the call for Abia South to produce the next governor is a ploy to exclude potentially qualified people of Ngwa extraction that are not resident in what is now called Abia South.

    “People who are calling for the next governor to come from Abia South are undermining the agreement that had been made in the past, especially with the present governor that after his term of office, that he would be succeeded by an Abian of Ngwa extraction. And this does not make any reference to any zone. Therefore, it would include the Ngwa people in Abia Central and the Ngwa people in Abia South.

    “Any person agitation for any other thing outside this is simply trying to cause mischief. And I also think that these people are trying to exclude some quality candidateaspirants that we have within the Ngwa people in Abia Central and obviously we will not allow that to happen.

    “This will not be the first time that the leadership of Ngwa people will make attempt to govern the state. I am appealing to all Ngwa people to come together for the purpose of attaining the governor of Abia of Ngwa extraction and in doing so, show support to the present administration that has promised to use the weight of his present office and the support that he enjoys from numerous Abians to assist us in actualising this goal”, he said.

    In the same vein, the National President of Ngwa Elite Social Club, Chief Emmanuel Otuonye, expressed optimism that without doubt, the next governor would be from Aba division albeit, not that it should be restricted to only Abia South Senatorial District.

    “We are looking at equity here, is it not? If that is the case, this is a perfect document prepared for us for the sake of equity, justice and fairness. The objective is to make sure that everybody has a sense of belonging. This idea of Abia North, Abia Central and Abia South are not in the Charter, what we have is Bende and Aba.

    “Ngwa is one indivisible people. I mean indivisible underlined. Ngwa is Ngwa. If for any political reason some of us are now in Abia Central while others are in Abia South, we remain one united entity. We are Ngwa and nothing can change it any more. So, wherever the Ngwa man comes from he is an Ngwa man.

    “Those who are agitating for the governor to come from only Abia South are not looking at equity. If they are looking for equity then they should talk aboutAba Division and not Abia South. Are they now saying that since Nsiala Ngwa North and South and Isisioma Ngwa are from Abia Central they are no longer part of Ngwa people or Aba? I hope you understand me? Does it make any sense? It is true that we are not political but we have the duty to protect the interest of all Ngwa people.”

    Chief Victor Oti, vice chairman of Aba Union and lawyer, said that equity demands that the Aba division should produce the next governor since Bende has been the one ruling. “The creation of senatorial districts is a later development. Isiala Ngwa North and South and Isisioma Ngwa belong to Aba division. The basic foundation upon which the state was created is two major blocks of Bende andAba. Therefore, the quest for the governor of Abia State in 2015 is a quest for all Ngwa people irrespective of where they belong or are living”, he said.

    Another source in the state told The Nation that the latest development of trying to limit the ticket for the governorship to only Abia South is not only mischievious but a classic example of the politics of exclusion. The source vouched that the political players are pretty certain that the incumbent will honour his words and promise to them, therefore, they want to quickly ‘corner’ the position for selfish reasons.

    “This is what we are talking about; these people see a governor who is ready to honour his words and promise. Perhaps they are sure that he would do what he promised; they want to corner the position early enough.

    “How come the same people, when they are agitating for the creation of Aba State, included these three local government areas but now that there is some level of assurance than ever for the governor to come from Ngwa in 2015, they are suddenly driving away Isiala Ngwa North and South and Osisioma Ngwa as belonging to Abia Central Senatorial Disrict?

    “In all the memoranda and documents relating to the creation of Aba State, the agitators included Isiala Ngwa North and South and Osisioma Ngwa local government areas as part of the proposed Aba State on the basis of the fact that they are one and the same with their kit and kin in Abia South”.

    Can Orji implement charter?

    But for the seemingly wrong categorization of the issue at stake, which political opponents of Abia Governor of Ngwa extraction project could exploit to their detriment, there is much hope for its realisation. It was learnt on good authority and as attested to by various stakeholders from the state who spoke in confidence that at no time in the history of the state exists a sure commitment by a governor to give meaning to the spirit of the Abia Charter of Equity.

    In the words of one of the stakeholders: “The present governor is committed. He has said it in different fora. When he went to the US he even said it that he would like to hand over to an Ngwa man. Mark you, the operative word is an ‘Ngwa man’ not a man from Abia South. And you know that he is an experienced administrator. He will not say what he cannot defend. As the governor, he is the father of all of us and he knows what justice means. But if for any reason, the people concerned choose to divide their own ranks, there will be little the governor can do in such a circumstance. But I can tell you that he is committed to it. He is a man of his words and we are happy about that”, the source said.

    Another stakeholder said: “It is left for the Ngwa masquerades to dance well, if they fail, the shame will not be for the state or the governor, it will be for them. But our prayer is that the project comes out well.”

    Will power shift to Ngwa in 2015? Time will tell.