A socio-political organization in Imo State, the Ohaji Patriotic Forum (OPF), has officially petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Hope Uzodinma, and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at both state and national levels. The group is raising concerns about what it describes as a long-standing exclusion of the Ohaji bloc from the House of Representatives position since 1999.
In an open letter signed by its National Chairman, Mazi Bethel Nwanorim, and Secretary, Christopher Ekeocha, the forum called for immediate intervention to address what they perceive as an injustice in the recently concluded APC primary for the Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, and Oru West Federal Constituency. The group argues that the current political developments threaten the established zoning and rotational agreement that has ensured peace, fairness, and political balance among the four blocs in the constituency.
The OPF expressed dismay that despite an existing mutual understanding on rotational representation, the Ohaji bloc is allegedly being denied the chance to produce the APC candidate for the federal seat. The forum pointed out that the Ohaji people have waited patiently since 1999 for their turn, and this alleged denial is deeply painful and regrettable.
The letter highlighted that Ohaji has remained a loyal and steadfast supporter of Governor Uzodinma and the APC, demonstrating unwavering commitment during elections. It is disheartening, the OPF said, that the same people who have been loyal are now raising concerns about marginalization and political exclusion.
The forum also referenced an alleged written agreement between Eugene Okechukwu Dibiagwu and the leadership of Ogbako Ohaji, entered into before the 2023 elections, which reportedly outlined the rotational arrangement. The OPF criticized the reported attempt by a serving National Assembly member to disregard that agreement, which it described as a betrayal of trust, integrity, and honor. The group warned that undermining such agreements erodes public confidence in political leadership and democratic values, sending the wrong message to younger generations.
Despite their grievances, the forum commended Governor Uzodinma for his developmental strides and infrastructural achievements across the state. They appealed to him, President Tinubu, and APC leaders to ensure that justice, fairness, and equity prevail in this matter. The OPF maintained that the Ohaji people remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to democratic processes, urging all stakeholders to act responsibly to preserve unity and political stability within the constituency.
The forum concluded with a passionate appeal for the leadership to uphold the zoning understanding and grant the Ohaji bloc the opportunity they believe rightfully belongs to them. They encouraged the sons and daughters of Ohaji to remain peaceful, united, and steadfast in pursuing justice through lawful and democratic means, expressing confidence that the APC leadership will act in the interest of fairness, equity, and enduring peace.