The paradigm shift in our electoral system and the politics of 2023 has thrown up different political calculations and permutations. Non of the major political parties in the country will beat their chest and say that they know the direction of the political events as they unfold. Everyone is running up and down seeking for refuge. Both the ruling APC and the main opposition party are facing serious challenges on who will be their Presidential running Mates.
It has gotten to a situation where the ruling APC is seriously contemplating flying a Muslim/ Muslim ticket. A wrong political move that could grossly mar the chances of the APC to retain Power after the 2023 general elections. The PDP is in the same dilemma. Even Mr. Peter Obi who is currently the most popular candidate among the Youths is not left out in this political quagmire.
Strategic thinkers are having a field day gallivanting the political space – in a bid to hoodwink the gullible Nigerians. Such political jobbers are busy trying to influence decisions on who becomes the Vice President or the Deputy Governor. The leadership of the PDP in Abia State should rise to occasion and do the needful.
In Ohafia South lies the victory of the PDP in 2023 Governorship election in the State. His Excellency, Gov. Victor Okezie Ikpeazu and the leadership of the party should as a matter of exigency pick Onye Ohafia South as the next Deputy Governor of the State.
The numerical strength of Ohafia LGA is a strong factor to be considered in choosing who becomes the running Mate to Prof. Uchenna Ikonne, the Governorship Candidate of the PDP. Ohafia has the highest number of registered voters in the entire Abia North.
It is pertinent to also mention that Ohafia is core PDP. Ohafia is predominantly PDP. Therefore, mobilizing Ndi Ohafia to support the ruling party in the State is a walkover.
It will interest the Governor and the leadership of the party in the State to note that various Socio-political groups were on ground canvassing for Onye Ohafia South to take over from His Excellency. Both Mben Political Assembly (MPA) and Ohafia Vanguard For Equity (OVE) were leading the way in the Ohafia Agenda.
It will not be out of place to consider Onye Ohafia South since we could not clinch the Governorship ticket.
A glance at the political equation of the Abia North since 1999 will buttress why Onye Ohafia South should be picked without any argument.
Below is a brief chart of what has transpired within the period under review.
(1999-2022).
(1) Bende LGA
Governor for 8 years.
(2) Isiukwuato LGA
Senate for 4 years.
(3) Umunneochie LGA
Senate for 12.
(4) Arochukwu LGA
Senate for 4 years.
(5) Ohafia North
Speaker for 4 years.
Deputy Governor for 8 years.
The leadership of the PDP in the State should close ranks and pick Onye Ohafia South as the next Deputy Governor. Because the party cannot afford to handle the pressure that will build up from Abia North. Ohafia is a political fertile ground that could brew such movement – that will be counter-productive to the party’s bid to retain Power in the State.
For equity, fairness and justice let someone from Ohafia South be given this ones life time golden opportunity. Ndi Ohafia South will continue to support the PDP and the Governor Ikpeazu led administration
Thanks 🙏.
*Comrade Stephen Uduma*
The Director, Media & Publicity, OVE.
Public Affairs AnalystCommunity Organiser.
