In what seems to be a display of political activism, the Egbaoma Peoples Assembly, an influential social-political entity operating within the Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, has taken a bold stance on principles of fairness and strategic zoning within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the upcoming election for the Local Government Chairman.
The assembly firmly asserts that this crucial office should be meticulously allocated to the Egbaoma political block, which encompasses wards 1 through 5.
At an event attended by a diverse assembly of participants, including past and present political leaders, party officials, community representatives, as well as youth and women delegates, the assembly’s declaration resounded strongly.
The statement not only emphasised the imperative of designating the chairmanship to the Egbaoma block but also passionately advocated for one of the Local Government Area’s representative positions within the state party executive committee to be assigned to the same geographical segment.
The communiqué, with endorsements from prominent figures representing each of the five wards within the Local Government Area, underscores the historical foundations that underpin their appeals. Central to their argument is the necessity of maintaining a delicate equilibrium between the Egbaoma and Akashiede political blocks.
According to the communiqué, since the establishment of the Ukwuani Local Government Area in 1996, the political landscape has been notably shaped by two predominant forces: the Akashiede block and the Egbaoma block.
These two segments collectively cover five INEC wards, boasting approximately forty-four thousand registered voters each.
The assembly turned its attention to the consistent electoral demarcation under the PDP’s banner. Of particular note is the persistent representation of the Egbaoma block in the Delta State House of Assembly, juxtaposed with the traditional occupancy of the Executive Council Chairmanship by the Akashiede block. This intricate equilibrium, a defining feature of PDP leadership, has stood as the cornerstone of unity and progress within both the party and the government.
Delving into the historical power-sharing dynamics between the two political blocks within the party, the assembly pointed out significant instances. According to the release, Chief Monday Ossai, from the Egbaoma block, effectively served two terms as LGA party chairman. Similarly, Chief Patrick Kaime, representing the Akashiede block, is poised to complete his own two terms. Considering preserving this equilibrium, the Egbaoma Peoples Assembly earnestly implores the state-level party leadership to nominate the next LGA party chairman from the Egbaoma block.
Drawing attention to a notable instance of collaboration, the assembly highlighted the Egbaoma block’s endorsement and successful support for Hon. (Ogbuefi) Chukwu Dafe’s representation in the Delta State House of Assembly, originating from the Akashiede block. This interplay serves as a model of power rotation and shifts, prompting the Egbaoma Peoples Assembly to seek reciprocal cooperation from their counterparts in the Akashiede block. Their current demand underscores parity, advocating for the rotation and zoning of the next council chairman position in favour of the Egbaoma group, aligning with the provisions outlined in the PDP constitution.
Furthermore, the assembly voiced concerns about the dominance of Akashiede block members within the LGA representatives at the state executive committee, with only two exceptions stemming from the Egbaoma block. With a steadfast commitment to upholding equilibrium, the assembly fervently advocates for one of the state executive committee positions designated for the Ukwuani LGA to be entrusted to the Egbaoma block.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the Egbaoma Peoples Assembly’s fervent advocacy underscores the intricate balance required to maintain unity and progress within the PDP, as well as the broader government structure. Their principled stand for equitable representation stands as a testament to their dedication to a just and balanced democratic process.
