By: Osita Biose
The principle of power rotation is a healthy convention that fosters fairness, equity, and inclusive growth. Delta State’s power rotation model, wherein the governorship alternates among the three senatorial districts, Delta North, Delta Central, and Delta South stands as a stellar example. This arrangement has promoted equity, stability, and balanced development, ensuring that each district has the opportunity to produce a governor.
Within the Aniocha/Oshimili constituency, until the recent emergence of Hon Lawrence Ngozi Okolie from Oshimili South, Aniocha North and South have more often held the House of Representatives seat since 1999.In the saddle were Hon Paschal Adigwe (South)Hon Joan Onyemechi{South)Hon Ned Nwoko(North),with Hon. Ndudi Elumelu being a prominent representative. While the various leaderships and contributions are undeniably commendable, the prolonged representation by Aniocha North and South local governments raises pertinent questions about fairness and equity within the constituency.
Adopting power rotation in the Aniocha/Oshimili constituency presents a range of significant benefits. One of the foremost advantages is the promotion of equity and fairness. By embracing this practice, leadership opportunities are distributed more evenly across all local governments, ensuring that no single area dominates representation.
Moreover, power rotation fosters inclusive growth by encouraging participation from diverse areas within the constituency. This approach broadens representation, allowing for a variety of perspectives and ideas to shape governance.
Likewise, it serves as a safeguard against marginalisation. By guaranteeing that every local government has a voice in leadership decisions, power rotation ensures that all groups within the constituency feel valued and included in the political process.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Aniocha/Oshimili constituency is presented with a unique opportunity to embrace change and uphold the principles of power rotation. This change would ensure that all local governments within the constituency are granted an equal platform to contribute to leadership. In doing so, new ideas, perspectives, and energies can be infused into governance, benefiting the entire constituency.
Stakeholders must reflect on the importance of power rotation as the elections approach. By adopting this convention, Aniocha/Oshimili constituency can advance inclusive growth, diversity, and representation. This will not only ensure fairness but also lead to a more equitable and developed community.
At the end of Hon Ngozi Okolie’s first tenure, most constituents are confident that the score card will justify the means when compared with the achievements of his predecessors
.
It is time for Aniocha to rise above sentiment, prioritise collective progress, and embrace the transformational benefits of equitable representation. The greater good of the constituency must take precedence in 2027.
