Emma Elekwa
Leadership and people of Dunukofia Local government area of Anambra state have called on Chairmen of political parties in Nigeria to concede the 2027 election to candidates from Dunukofia for the Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency.
The leaders, including traditional rulers and Presidents General decried what they termed “prolonged exclusion” of Dunukofia from the federal legislative representation in the Green Chambers of the National Assembly for the past 28 years.
They said representation has been shared between candidates from Njikoka and Anaocha local government areas.
Prince Arthur Eze, an oil magnate hails from Dunukofia LGA, while his brother, Igwe Dr. Robert Eze, a signatory to the appeal, is the traditional ruler of Ukpo, one of the towns in Dunukofia.
In an open letter titled, “A Compassionate Appeal for Equity, Unity and Fair Representation in the Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency, the leaders said conceding the contest to Dunukofia candidates would correct historical imbalance.
It will also pave way for more united, equitable, and harmonious constituency going forward.
The statement signed by both the royal fathers and PGs were copied to the parties’ National Chairmen including the All Progressives Congress (APC), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA),andAfrican Democratic Congress (ADC).
Other parties include: People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), Young Progressive Party (YPP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) and others.
Gist of the letter
“We write to you today with profound respect for the democratic principles that guide our great nation and with deep appreciation for the role political parties’ play in strengthening our democracy.
“It is in the spirit of fairness, justice, and lasting unity that we humbly bring to your attention, a matter of critical importance to the people of the Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency in Anambra state.
“As you are well aware, our constituency comprises three Local Government Areas: Dunukofia (with 14 Political Wards), Njikoka (with 18 Political Wards), and Anaocha (with 19 Political Wards).
“Over the past 28 years, the representation in the Green Chambers of the National Assembly has been shared exclusively between candidates from Njikoka LGA and Anaocha LGA, in a ratio of 16 years and 12 years respectively, owing largely to their superior population.
“While this reflects the democratic principle of majority rule, it has inadvertently led to a prolonged exclusion of Dunukofia from the federal legislative representation.
Prolonged marginalization
“This prolonged absence and marginalization has not gone unnoticed by the people of Dunukofia.
“It has fostered a growing sense of alienation and a feeling that their voices are absent from the national discourse.
“Despite their steadfast participation in elections, contributions to the constituency’s development, and unwavering loyalty to the democratic process, the people of Dunukofia have watched as the torch of representation passes only between their neighbours – Njikoa and Anaocha LGAs.
“In light of this anomalous development, the leadership and Traditional Rulers of Dunukofia have initiated a heartfelt appeal for equity.
“The Traditional Rulers and other stakeholders from Dunukofia LGA have already reached out to their counterparts in Njikoka and Anaocha, seeking their understanding and support in rectifying this imbalance.
“Their gracious reception and approval of this appeal signals a shared commitment to justice, and mutual respect among the three LGAs.
“Therefore, we, on behalf of the people of Dunukofia LGA, passionately appeal to your esteemed party to consider zoning the forthcoming 2027 National Assembly election – Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha Federal Constituency, exclusively to candidates from Dunukofia LGA.
“This is not a request born out of entitlement, but one rooted in the principles of rotational equity, inclusivity, and the strengthening of our collective bond as a constituency.
Upholding equity and unity
“By supporting this appeal, your esteemed political party will Uphold the Spirit of Equity, Promote Unity and Peace, Reward Patience and Loyalty, Set a Precedent of Justice:
“We understand that this request requires sacrifice, particularly from the people of Njikoka and Anaocha, who have graciously supported this initiative through their Traditional Rulers and other revered stakeholders.
“Yes, stakeholders of the people of Njikoka and Anaocha are in alignment with our push for this exclusive concession to Dunukofia to produce the next candidate to represent the Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha Federal Constituency.
“The Traditional rulers from Njikoka and Anaocha alongside other stakeholders echoed same sentiments and adopted same views as ours in their recent meeting with the people of Dunukofia.
“This positive development is a testament to their magnanimity and their commitment to the greater good of the Dunukofia, Njikoka and Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency.
“We trust in your wisdom, your dedication to democratic values, and your commitment to building a nation where every community feels seen and heard.”
“Together, we can build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”
Traditional rulers who signed the letter were Igwe Dr. Robert Ezeof Ukpo, Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno (JP)of Ifitedunu, and Igwe Ben Anochie Agidigbo of Umunnachi.
Others are: High Chief Ben Amuta, Regent of Umudioka, Igwe Peter Uyanwa, of Ukwulu, and Igwe George Okaa-Onwuoguof Nawgu).
The President Generals included Chief Cyrilwalter Ezewulu, PG of Ukpo, Prof. Stephen Ufuaro, PG of Ifitedunu, and Engr Ofodile Anieto, PG of Umunnachi.
Also included are: Chief Onyechi Val Adinnu, PG of Umudioka, Hon. Uba Ayiofu – PG of Ukwulu and Hon. Mathew Ibebugwu – PG of Nawgu.
