by Maazi Obinna Akuwudike
The history of Imo State’s political trajectory cannot be told without revisiting the events of 2011, particularly the controversy that ended Ikedi Ohakim’s tenure as governor.
Central to this political upheaval was the role of retired Archbishop Anthony J.V. Obinna, whose actions—whether intentional or not—played a decisive part in disrupting the long-standing Charter of Equity in Imo State.
The major catalyst for Ohakim’s political downfall was the widely circulated allegation that he flogged a Catholic priest. This narrative, though later exposed as false, significantly damaged Ohakim’s reputation and political standing. Notably, Archbishop Obinna, a respected spiritual leader and an Owerri son, remained silent, allowing the falsehood to thrive. His silence was perceived by many as tacit approval, a move that contributed to Ohakim’s loss of public trust.
The political debate organized at Assumpta Cathedral also played a pivotal role. The setting, meant to be a platform for objective discourse, was seen by many as biased against Ohakim, favoring an Orlu candidate. Many believed that the event was orchestrated to undermine Ohakim and pave the way for an Orlu successor. This perception was compounded by Archbishop Obinna’s involvement, leading many to question his impartiality.
Adding to the tension, Archbishop Obinna led a public march to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office, practically demanding Ohakim’s removal.
This act was seen as the final push that tilted the scales in favor of Rochas Okorocha, who would later emerge victorious. Okorocha’s administration, criticized for prioritizing personal interests over state development, is often described as the worst in Imo’s history.
AJV enthroned him!
Crucially, this sequence of events dismantled the Charter of Equity—a political understanding aimed at ensuring rotational governance among the state’s three zones. This charter was honored when late Barr. Humphrey Anumudu from Owerri zone stepped aside to allow Orlu to produce a governor. By right, the next turn was expected to return to Owerri. Ohakim, from Okigwe, was seen as a bridge to maintaining that balance. Had he been allowed to complete his tenure, he was bend on handing over power to an Owerri successor.
But Archbishop Obinna’s actions disrupted that balance. His intervention, many argue, facilitated the emergence of Okorocha, extending Orlu’s dominance and sidelining the Owerri zone from the governorship seat.
Today, as Owerri clamors for a return of the Charter of Equity, it is only fitting that Archbishop Obinna, who many believe broke it, should lead the effort to restore it. Justice demands that those who contributed to that the disruption of that gentleman’s agreement should now be at the forefront of its correction.
Governor Hope Uzodimma and many other, even Prof Maurice Iwu from Okigwe have all now thrown their support behind Owerri, but a lot of people still kick.
It is not enough to watch from the sidelines. If Archbishop Obinna values equity and fairness, then he must take a stand—publicly appealing for the return of the governorship to Owerri zone.
This would not only be an act of moral responsibility but also a step towards healing a long-standing political wound in Imo State.
