Imo guber: Monarch charges voters to exercise franchise despite insecurity

As preparations for the November 11 governorship election in Imo State intensify, the traditional ruler of Ihim Autonomous Community in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, HRH Eze Dr Oliver Ohanwe, has advised eligible voters in Imo State to ignore the disruptive forces in some volatile council areas and come out en masse to exercise their franchise to elect a leader of their choice.

His advice comes as preparations for the November 11 governorship election in Imo State continue to gain momentum.

The Vice President of the South East Supreme Traditional Rulers Council expressed regret that some criminal elements from neighbouring states, acting out the scripts of their sponsors, have continued to infiltrate some communities, holding the indigenous people of such hapless communities to ransom with intimidation, harassment, coercion, and outright conscription into their malevolent gangs.

Eze Ohanwe, while warning those inciting violence and discord and who have lost relevance in contemporary society’s social structure, urged that they be ignored.

He described periodic elections, from one democratic dispensation to another, as the lifeblood of civil societies.

The traditional ruler, who spoke to newsmen at his private residence in Owerri on Monday, emphasised that if a particular zone, ward, or booth is not allowed to go and vote, it could inadvertently provide an opportunity for the wrong person to win the election.

The monarch also cautioned security agencies to avoid overzealousness and unnecessary anxiety while monitoring the polls.

He stressed that the utmost demonstration of civility and courtesy would encourage and motivate people to exercise their civic responsibility.

“All should come out and vote, and it is the duty of the security personnel to protect lives in a civil manner, ensuring a level playing field for all participating political parties and their candidates. It is also incumbent on both local and international observers to present the state in a positive light.”

Eze Ohanwe, who is also the chairman of the Okigwe Global Leadership Forum and a member of the founding fathers of the Imo Charter of Equity, called on those who have disrupted the charter to reinstate it for equity, justice, and fairness among the three zones of Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe.

He said, “I am one of those who set up the Imo Charter of Equity, and if it is reintroduced, the state will be like Enugu and Ebonyi, which have since embraced it, reducing insecurity and political expenses.”

He praised Governor Hope Uzodimma for his impressive achievements, noting that a vote for his second term would take the state to greater heights in growth and development.

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