Political debates over the Imo Charter of Equity took a dramatic turn on Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, during a high-profile luncheon in Lagos in honour of the award-winning Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON. The event was hosted by Nigerian tech mogul and Chairman of Zinox Group, Chief Leo Stan Eke.
During the reception, Chief Eke used the occasion to advocate for the Owerri Zone to produce the next governor of Imo State, citing the region’s exclusion from the governorship seat since 1999. However, his proposition sparked immediate reaction from fellow billionaire and Okigwe-born political heavyweight, Chief Tony Chukwu.
Chief Chukwu, known for his candor and devout Christian faith, firmly countered the Owerri Zone narrative. He argued that it is, in fact, Okigwe Zone’s turn to produce the next governor, stressing that the zone has been historically marginalized in the state’s political equation.
Invoking the solemnity of the Lenten season, Chief Chukwu called on Imo citizens to reflect during the Holy Week on the principles of fairness and inclusion. He pointed out that the Charter of Equity was designed to ensure rotational leadership and equitable development across the state’s three zones.
According to him, Owerri Zone has disproportionately benefited from state allocations, infrastructure, and services in sectors such as health, education, and social amenities, while Okigwe Zone remains significantly underdeveloped. He suggested a bold alternative: that if Owerri insists on producing the next governor, then the state capital should be relocated to Okigwe as a compensatory measure.
Chief Chukwu’s comments introduced a new dimension to the ongoing succession debate, challenging entrenched narratives and sparking serious deliberation among those in attendance.
The event was graced by an array of dignitaries, including captains of industry, traditional rulers, and elder statesmen. Notable attendees included Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Chairman of the Imo Council of Elders; Eze Dr. Oliver Ohanwe, Chairman of the Okigwe Elders Global Forum; Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho; and Chief Jerry Chukwueke, among others.
The hosts, Dr. Leo Stan Eke and his wife Mrs. Chioma Eke, treated guests to an afternoon of luxury, entertainment, and robust political discourse.
As the 2028 governorship race draws nearer, Chief Chukwu’s passionate advocacy has added weight to the push for an Okigwe candidacy, setting the stage for what promises to be a heated succession battle.
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