Traditional rulers from Ohuhu in Umuahia North have called for calm and respect for an existing power-sharing arrangement as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 House of Representatives election in the Umuahia North/Umuahia South/Ikwuano Federal Constituency.
Speaking after a joint meeting with counterparts from Ikwuano, Ibeku and Umuahia South, His Royal Majesty Eze Iheanyichukwu Nwokenna, the Oba of Ekeoba Ohuhu, said the intervention of the monarchs was necessary to safeguard peace and stability across their communities. He stressed that while traditional rulers are non-partisan, they reserve the right to step in on issues affecting their domains.
Eze Nwokenna recalled a prior agreement reached during the tenure of former Senator T. A. Orji and former lawmaker Sam Onuigbo, which allowed a representative to complete two terms, with the same opportunity extended to other zones when rotation applies. He noted that the current occupant of the seat is from Ohuhu, and appealed for the understanding of other blocs to allow the area complete its second term.
The monarch expressed concern over rising tension, multiple candidacies and what he described as campaigns of calumny, urging leaders from Ikwuano, Ibeku and Umuahia South to counsel their subjects in the interest of peace. He clarified that Ohuhu traditional rulers are not endorsing any individual candidate but are advocating adherence to the agreed rotation principle.
Corroborating the position, the traditional ruler of Uhabiri Umu Chime Na Amanso Ibeku Autonomous Community, Eze Iheanyichukwu Ezigbo, said the bond between Ohuhu and Ibeku demands mutual respect for agreements, emphasizing that peace must remain paramount.
Meanwhile, the race for the 2027 contest is gathering momentum, with several aspirants declaring interest. Among them are the incumbent Obi Aguocha, Mayor Lucky Igbokwe (Don Lulu), former Speaker Chinedum Orji, Hon. Chukwudi Apugo, Chief Randy Ukanwoke and Dr. Martina Amarachi Ononiwu. With most contenders reportedly aligned with the APC, except the incumbent, the party’s primary is expected to be highly competitive, even as Ohuhu remains central to the unfolding political equation.
