Equity, fairness, and justice remain the cornerstone of any credible democratic arrangement. As the popular saying goes, he who comes to equity must come with clean hands. This principle is central to the ongoing discourse surrounding the Okigwe North Federal House of Representatives seat.
Since the return of democracy in 1999, Okigwe North Federal Constituency has operated an informal rotational arrangement among its three local government areas—Onuimo LGA, Okigwe LGA, and Isiala Mbano LGA—to promote fairness and inclusion.
Historical background of the rotation shows Onuimo LGA took the first turn. Okigwe LGA followed as the second.
Isiala Mbano LGA came in as the third. Under this understanding, each LGA was expected to serve two tenures (eight years) before handing over to the next.
In line with this arrangement: Hon. Obinna Onwubuariri served from 2015 to 2019 for Isiala Mbano LGA. Rt. Hon. Miriam Onuoha succeeded him in 2019. Under Hon. Miriam Onouha, Isiala Mbano LGA, although continued from 2015 to 2027 (Enjoying a period of 12 years) brings Isiala Mbano tenure to 12 years from 2015 to 2027. For emphasizes.
This action of Miriam Onouha unilaterally altered the original arrangement, and effectively expanding Isiala Mbano LGA’s tenure from 8 years to 12 years (2015–2027). Paving way for a new political standard—a “New Normal”—where: each LGA will now occupy the seat for three consecutive tenures (12 years) instead of two.
Hence, Isiala Mbano LGA has set this precedent and will complete their 12 uninterrupted years by 2027, equity and fairness demand that: Onuimo LGA under the "New Normal" will kick start the second rotational arrangement.
Thereafter, Okigwe LGA would take its turn under the same framework. This revised sequence is not a demand but a logical consequence of the standard introduced and implemented by Isiala Mbano LGA itself.
As the Bible teaches, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Having enjoyed twelve uninterrupted years, it would be inequitable—and politically provocative—for Isiala Mbano LGA to seek further control of the Okigwe North Federal House of Representatives seat beyond 2027.
Therefore, any attempt by individuals from Isiala Mbano LGA to contest for the seat in 2027 runs contrary to the principles of fairness, justice, and the very precedent they established.
A word, they say, is enough for the wise. In this case, more than enough has been said. We trust that wisdom will prevail.
—Concerned Citizens of Okigwe Zone.