●Community: “We have supported others; now we humbly ask for same support”
Agbobu Autonomous Community, one of the largest political wards in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, has formally asked political parties and stakeholders to cede the Okigwe State Constituency seat to it, citing equity, justice, and decades of electoral sacrifice.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the community said it has never contested the seat but has consistently mobilized votes and campaigned for aspirants from other communities, including outgoing member Hon. Chidiebere Ogbunikpa.
–“This is our first time presenting a candidate”–
Agbobu noted it is presenting a candidate for the Okigwe State Constituency seat for the first time in the LGA’s political history.
“Agbobu has never contested or dragged the Okigwe State Constituency seat with any community. Rather, we have always supported and voted massively for representatives from other communities,” the community stated.
The ward described itself as one of the largest in Okigwe LGA by population and voting strength, adding that its contributions to electoral victories “has never been in doubt.”
–Appeal for rotational zoning–
The community urged aspirants from other communities currently vying for the seat to “kindly step down and allow Agbobu to take her turn.” It also appealed to political party leaders to recognize Agbobu’s “historical sacrifice” and traditional rulers, stakeholders, and opinion leaders to support “this call for balance and inclusion.”
Agbobu argued that rotational zoning has been used across Imo State to foster unity and prevent domination. “Denying Agbobu this turn will deepen the feeling of marginalization, abandonment, and rejection already expressed by Agbobu people,” it said.
–“We are asking for our rightful turn”–
“We remain committed to the unity, progress, and development of Okigwe LGA,” the statement added.
The appeal was signed by BOSS, A.K.A SENIOR ADVOCATE FOR THE MASSES (S.A.M), from, as claimed, the most politically marginalised, abandoned, rejected, neglected and insulted community in Okigwe LGA. Agbobu Autonomous Community.
