Idemili South Local Government Area has been thrown into controversy following indications that Ms. Amaka Obi, the current Chairman, intends to seek reelection in the August 29 local government elections.
While some residents support her leadership, others contend that her bid for a second term effectively amounts to a “third term,” citing her earlier tenure as caretaker committee chairman of the LGA.
Critics have called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene, describing her ambition as inordinate and potentially divisive for the community.
A document obtained by our Correspondent has further fueled the rotation debate in the area, noting that historically, elected positions in Idemili South have followed democratic processes, while appointments have remained flexible and not strictly zoned.
The document stated that communities such as Ojoto and Oba have produced leaders over the years.
“Distinguished sons of Ojoto, including Barrister Ikem Okigbo, Engineer Umeghalu, and Hon. Anyichie, have previously served as local government chairmen, while the Oba community has also contributed leaders in both elected and appointed capacities,” the document stated
It further noted that zoning arrangements extend to legislative positions: “Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo from Ojoto currently represents Idemili North and South in the National Assembly.”
According to the document, the State House of Assembly seat was expected to rotate to Zone 2, comprising Oba, Ojoto, and Akwu-Ukwu, but the rotation was deferred, allowing Zone 1 to retain the seat for 12 years.
Prominent figures from Zone 1 include former House of Assembly member Hon. Chuka Ezenwune of Nnobi and Professor Kate Omenugha, who served as Commissioner for Education for eight years. Her son, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, currently serves as Special Adviser to Governor Soludo on Youth Empowerment, while Professor Omenugha is the Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).
The document added that Zone 3, comprising Awka-Etiti and Nnokwa, has yet to fully exercise its electoral mandate. While the zone has benefited from appointments, the current elected tenure of Ms. Amaka Obi is approaching just two years.
Advocates of zoning argue that allowing Zone 3 to complete a full term before leadership rotates would promote fairness, equity, and balanced representation.
Community leaders and residents are urging stakeholders to uphold zoning principles to foster inclusivity and harmony across Idemili South.
“As the elections approach, it is important to unite in the pursuit of justice for all,” a community leader,Ndu Eze, said, adding,“By supporting a fair zoning system, we empower our communities and ensure that every zone has a sense of belonging in local governance.”
As the August 29 elections draw closer, attention remains focused on Ms. Amaka Obi’s reelection bid and its wider implications for zoning, fairness, and cohesion in Idemili South.
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