Onicha East Seat: Ukawu group demands power shift from Oshiri after two Decades
A group known as Ukawu Concerned Youths has called on the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, to zone the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Onicha East State Constituency to Ukawu community ahead of the next electoral cycle.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its spokesman, Comrade Eze Chukwuemeka Oscar, the group argued that fairness, equity, and political balance require that the Assembly seat be rotated, noting that the Oshiri community has held the position for nearly two decades.
The youths expressed concern that the prolonged occupancy of the seat by a single community undermines inclusiveness and weakens the principle of equitable representation within the constituency.
“We respectfully call on His Excellency to consider zoning the APC ticket to Ukawu. This is necessary to promote unity, fairness, and a sense of belonging among all communities in Onicha East,” the statement read.
They maintained that Ukawu is not lacking in capable and experienced individuals who can effectively represent the constituency at the State House of Assembly, stressing that giving the community the opportunity would enhance political participation and inclusiveness.
According to the group, zoning the ticket to Ukawu would also strengthen the APC’s grassroots support in the area, as it would address what they described as long standing concerns over marginalisation.
While commending Governor Nwifuru for his administration’s commitment to justice and equitable development, the youths expressed confidence that he would give due consideration to their appeal in the interest of peace and unity.
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to obtain official reactions from the state government and the leadership of the APC in Ebonyi State were unsuccessful.
Political observers say the demand for zoning is likely to spark further discussions within the party as stakeholders begin to position themselves ahead of future elections in the state.
