24/02/2023
WHY AN IKWO MAN BECOMING THE NEXT SENATOR OF EBONYI CENTRAL ZONE IS NOT NEGOTIABLE
By Nte John Nwanneka
Ikwo is the largest local government area in Ebonyi State, with a population of over 200,000 people and 20 electoral wards. It is also a major agricultural hub, with a thriving economy that contributes significantly to the state's GDP. Once again, the spotlight is on Ikwo as the seat of the next senator representing Ebonyi Central Zone in the Nigerian Senate. The current senator, Senator Obinna Ogba, is expected to step down in 2023, paving the way for a new senator to represent the zone.
As the election season approaches, the question on the minds of many is who will succeed Senator Ogba? While several candidates are vying for the position, it is not negotiable that an Ikwo man should be the next senator of Ebonyi Central Zone.
Ikwo has not had representation in the National Assembly since the creation of Ebonyi State. In 2007, when an Ikwo man, Senator Dr. Emmanuel Onwe, contested under the platform of the People Democratic Party (PDP) and won the election, he was denied from serving his rightful mandate. He later reclaimed his mandate after much court litigation and stayed for just six months in the National Assembly.
The Ebonyi Central Zone Local Government Areas, comprising Ezza South, Ezza North, Ikwo, and Ishielu Local Government Areas, have been adequately represented except for Ikwo. Senator Vincent Usulor, who hails from Ezza South, represented the zone from 1999-2003. Another individual from Ezza Nation, Senator Julius Ali Ucha, served the zone from 2003 to July 2010, when the court removed him. Senator Paulinus Igwe Nwagu from Ezza North has also represented the zone since 2011. In the Ishielu Local Government area, Senator Obinna Ogba has been fully represented from 2015-2023.
Politically, Ikwo is disadvantaged in terms of representation in the National Assembly despite being the largest Local Government Area in Ebonyi State with a significant voting population. Ikwo's votes determine who wins any election in Ebonyi State, ranging from the governor, senator, and house of representatives.
Unfortunately, the people of Ikwo have not enjoyed the dividends of democracy despite their significant contributions to the political landscape of Ebonyi State. The lack of constituent projects in the area since 1999 is unacceptable. The incumbent government has also failed to commission or sponsor a single project in Ikwo, highlighting the neglect of the area.
In the interest of achieving equity, fairness, and justice, it is a widely recognized fact that Ikwo has not had adequate representation in the Senate. As such, the upcoming 2023 elections present a propitious opportunity for Ikwo to produce a senator, similar to other regions. Any political calculation, entity, or individual that obstructs or stands against this move is more of an enemy of the zone.
The neglect of the Ikwo people by other major political parties in Ebonyi state is a significant concern. The desperate attempt to win elections has led to the abandonment of the people of Ikwo, and this is unacceptable. It is heartening to note that the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) has recognized the importance of the Ikwo people and has deemed it fit to field an Ikwo son as their flag bearer.
Therefore, a collective endorsement platform candidate to represent Ebonyi Central in the National Assembly is a veritable manifestation of equity, fairness, and justice. For what benefits one should also benefit the other; it is a case of symbiotic reciprocity.
Senator Emmanuel Onwe, under the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, has the character and competence with a chance of winning the senatorial seat.
It will be a slap on the face of the Ikwo Local Government Area if an Ikwo man does not emerge; God forbid.