As a true son of Owerri Zone and a concerned Imolite, I feel compelled to respond to the recent publication authored by Prof. Protus Uzoma and published in the Nigerian Watchdog newspaper of 17th April 2025. The article, titled “2028 Imo Governorship: Owerri Must Engage, Negotiate with Okigwe Zone or Face Regrets,” initially appeared to come from a place of statesmanship. However, upon closer reading, it became clear that the piece was more of a veiled political job aimed at serving narrow interests rather than advancing equity or justice.
Let it be known that Prof. Uzoma hails from Isu Local Government in Orlu Zone and is known more for his political opportunism than academic objectivity. His consistent flirtation with active politics, usually under the guise of intellectual commentary, has over time betrayed his true intentions. He has a history of aligning with powerful politicians in return for personal gain—either for financial reward or in anticipation of political appointments. His recent posturing as Secretary of Orlu Elders Council and his sudden cheerleading for Okigwe Zone raise serious questions about the integrity and consistency of his political commentary.
The so-called “Charter of Equity” Prof. Uzoma referenced gained its most practical momentum under Governor Hope Uzodimma, not earlier failed attempts. Governor Uzodimma, in multiple meetings—some of which I personally attended—openly committed to handing over power to Owerri Zone in 2028. This was in recognition of the fact that the zone was denied its full mandate when a sitting Owerri-zone governor was removed via the courts. This was the spirit behind the renewed and more structured Charter of Equity.
Now, political jobbers, sycophants, and self-styled intellectuals like Prof. Uzoma are attempting to twist this narrative to suit their benefactors. From the tone of his write-up, one might mistake Prof. Uzoma for someone from Okigwe Zone, given his exaggerated praise for certain leaders there, referring to them as political “Nostradamus” whose predictions are now ripe for manifestation. This, to me, is nothing more than a rehearsed act designed to position himself for the role he has always chased—the deputy governorship or any available appointment.
There is also growing suspicion that his article is not an isolated expression of opinion but a carefully orchestrated move sponsored by a former governor who is nursing ambitions of returning to power. If this is true, then Prof. Uzoma has once again shown himself to be a willing tool in the hands of power-hungry politicians.
It is deeply unfortunate that an academic, who should be a beacon of truth and objectivity, has reduced himself to a political errand boy. His posture raises serious concerns: Is he writing for Orlu Zone under a hidden script? Is the Orlu Elders Council truly behind his position, or is he simply using their name to lend weight to a personal agenda?
If the council is not aligned with his views, then Prof. Uzoma has not only betrayed the trust of the people but has also shown he lacks the integrity to be taken seriously on matters of equity and justice.
Let it be clear: the next Governor of Imo State must come from Owerri Zone. Any narrative suggesting otherwise, especially coming from an Orlu man pretending to speak for broader Imo interests, is deceptive and self-serving. Orlu Zone should distance itself from such characters who use public platforms to distort truth and promote division.
The people of Owerri Zone are watching, and we will not allow political merchants to rob us of what is rightfully ours—2028 is for Owerri Zone, and that must not be negotiated away.
MY name is Dr. Ukaoha Egbuchulam
Writing from Atta Ikeduru.