Traditional rulers across Abia State have renewed calls for political stakeholders to strictly respect the long-standing zoning arrangement guiding the House of Representatives seat in the area. The monarchs emphasized that maintaining the agreement is essential to preserving peace, equity, and unity among communities.
The appeal was made during a cross-community meeting held at the palace of Eze Iheanyichukwu Abel Ezeigbo in Uhabiri Umuchime Na Amanso Autonomous Community, Ossah-Ibeku. The gathering brought together royal fathers from different parts of the constituency to deliberate on rising political tensions linked to the forthcoming electoral cycle.
According to the traditional rulers, the Ohuhu bloc should be allowed to complete its constitutionally agreed two tenures in the House of Representatives, in line with a rotational formula that has been in place for decades. They warned that any attempt to disrupt the arrangement could trigger unnecessary conflict and undermine the spirit of fairness that has sustained the zoning system.
Speaking on behalf of the Ohuhu Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna explained that the intervention was not politically motivated but aimed at safeguarding an established consensus.
He noted that the zoning framework ensures balanced representation, allowing each bloc to occupy the seat for two terms before it rotates. He stressed that honoring this arrangement remains the only viable path to sustaining mutual respect and stability within the constituency.
Also lending his voice, Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu highlighted that the agreement, which has lasted for over 30 years, reflects a shared commitment to justice and equity among the people. He urged all stakeholders to remain faithful to the understanding.
Traditional rulers from Ikwuano and Umuahia South echoed similar sentiments, pledging to communicate the message to their respective communities. Eze Ben Oriaku reaffirmed the importance of preventing conflict through dialogue and adherence to established norms, while Eze Paul C. Egwu described the appeal as timely and necessary for sustaining unity.
Other royal fathers at the meeting, including Eze Iheanyichukwu Abel Ezeigbo, Allen Okpokiri, and Justice Uwaga, stressed the critical role of traditional institutions in fostering peace. They collectively urged political actors and community leaders to respect the zoning agreement and work towards maintaining harmony across the constituency.
