Enugu: Onoh backs Mbah’s second term, kicks Nnaji’s zoning talks

Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Denge Josef Onoh, has criticised former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, over his recent support for zoning the Enugu State governorship and his pledge to serve only one term if elected in 2027.

Onoh described Nnaji’s position as inconsistent, expressing concern that it could disrupt the rotational arrangement that has guided power sharing among the state’s three senatorial zones since the return to democratic rule.

The former South-East spokesman to President Bola Tinubu gave the reaction in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja.

He argued that support for zoning should include respect for the completion of the current tenure of the Enugu East Senatorial District, which he noted is presently producing the governor.

According to him, any proposal that does not align with the established rotation could undermine the principle of equity among the zones.

He insisted that Governor Peter Mbah should be allowed to complete two terms to sustain the zoning structure, after which the Enugu West Senatorial Zone would have the opportunity to produce the next governor in 2031.

Onoh added that maintaining the existing arrangement would help preserve political balance and avoid potential disputes among the zones.

He also expressed reservations about the practicality of a one-term pledge, noting that constitutional provisions allow elected governors to seek re-election.

He cautioned that altering the current sequence could create uncertainty in the zoning structure and affect expectations among the senatorial districts.

Onoh emphasised that continuity, adherence to zoning, and a focus on governance outcomes remain key considerations for political stability in the state.

He concluded by urging stakeholders to prioritise equity, fairness, and consistency in upholding the zoning framework.