The recent pronouncement by the Leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), South East zone that, states in the zone should stick to existing zoning formula is apt and timely.
This resolution, if strictly adhered to would foster peace and unity, not only within the party, but also in the respective states.
The decision, which came after an exhaustive meeting of stakeholders of the party in the zone, has reduced the tension hitherto permeating the political space in Enugu State.
However, the decision did not preclude other wishful and recalcitrant aspirants from participating in the primaries or pushing for their aspirations through other means.
But going by that decision, the coast is now clear for the incumbent Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi to follow the footsteps of his predecessors by chosing who replaces him in the Lion Building on May 29, 2023.
Media reports had quoted Ugwuanyi as saying that, he was not destracted by the avalanche of declarations and insinuations on zoning in the state.
The governor has proved over time that he is a thoughtful leader who takes his time to act and not on impulse.
It is unfortunately disturbing that many political actors, writers, commentators, and respected elders in the state have placed zoning above merit and other considerations which ought to be the yardstick to measure good governance.
Democracy is not all about participation, but for the greater good of the people (the electorate).
Also, none has taken into consideration the need for continuity in governance, that is, consolidating on the gains of the democratic dividends by the outgoing administration.
A cursory look at the various aspirants who are itching to succeed Ugwuanyi shows that only Hon. Chijioke Jonathan Edoga fits into his shoes.
Edoga possesses three pronged qualities which places him high above other aspirants.
His background as coming from Isi Uzo Local Government Area in Enugu East Senatorial zone, that automatically qualifies him to contest under the PDP directive.
On merit, Edoga has sound educational qualifications. He is a Poet, a Journalist, a Writer and a London trained Lawyer (LLB)) and Master degree in Law.
In terms of leadership experience: he was a former local government Chairman of Isi Uzo, former Federal Legislator, Chairman of Committee on Information, former legislative aide to president Good luck Jonathan and a two term Commissioner in the present administration.
Hon. Edoga is a member of the kitchen cabinet of the current Ugwuanyi administration since its inception in 2015.
The last point effectively placed him far above other aspirants.
There is no gain saying that Edoga as a member of the kitchen cabinet of this administration knows and had been part of the policy implementation of the Government, therefore he will be expected to carry on with the excellent works that the present administration has been doing, thereby ensuring continuity in the governance of the state.
One of the problems that governments in Nigeria face over time is project abandonment arising chiefly from wrong succession from one government to the other.
This had led to policy summersault, infrastructural decay or lack of it, huge debt profiles, unserviceable debts and so on.
This is because fresh governor/government breeds fresh ideas. Moreso, in a country where there is lack of political idealogy by the parties.
His Excellency, should therefore, take a bold step by ensuring that he hands over to someone who will continue his good works in the interest of the people of Enugu state.
Ben Ezechime, writes from Ehalumona.
