By Anthony
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A major political realignment appears to be steadily taking shape across Okigwe Zone, following a series of strategic coalition meetings, involving coordinators and stakeholders of the Transformation Agenda, Ekurume Foundation and the political structures of former Ehime Mbano council chairman, Obinwanne Onwuchurumba, as well as High Chief Raymond Ohakelem.
The meetings, which drew participants from Okigwe South Federal Constituency, comprising Ehime Mbano, Ihitte/Uboma and Obowo Local Government Areas, brought together ward coordinators, women leaders, youth mobilisers and grassroots political actors in the formal harmonisation of structures ahead of the unfolding 2027 political season.
The coalition meetings were coordinated by the State Party Secretary, Barrister Greg Ihejirika, alongside key political figures, including senatorial hopeful, Attorney Dr. Charles Onyirimba; House of Representatives aspirant, Sir Bishop Chima Ekurume; Ehime Mbano House of Assembly hopeful and former council chairman, Obinwanne Onwuchurumba; and Ihitte/Uboma House of Assembly hopeful, High Chief Raymond Ohakelem.
Speakers at the meetings repeatedly stressed that the coalition was not merely about political convenience, but about building a formidable grassroots-driven movement anchored on unity, strategy and collective development for Okigwe Zone.
A major highlight of the gathering was the decision to deepen ward-based organisation, with each ward expected to produce 14 officers drawn from different political tendencies and support groups as part of the harmonisation process. Leaders emphasised that the movement would focus on recruiting dependable grassroots mobilisers capable of delivering victories at polling units and ward levels.
Speaking during the sessions, Ihejirika likened the present political situation to a vehicle conveying passengers to Abuja, which suddenly broke down and could not be fixed for months, necessitating the passengers seeking another vehicle capable of taking them safely to their destination.
Though he did not unveil the coalition’s new vehicle ahead of its official announcement later this week, he insisted that the movement had already found the right direction.
Drawing an analogy from football, Ihejirika described former Manchester City coach, Pep Guardiola as hugely successful because of the quality players he assembled, adding that even the best coach would struggle without capable players. According to him, the coalition, therefore, resolved to recruit “quality players” who possess the competence, credibility and character required to reposition Okigwe Zone.
He described Onyirimba, Ekurume, Obinwanne and Ohakelem as a formidable team capable of winning elections and delivering meaningful representation, stressing that the mission of the meetings was to cement a political partnership and merge the various structures into one coordinated force.
Obinwanne, while addressing supporters in Ehime Mbano, recalled his years of service to the local government in different capacities, including as council chairman. He maintained that every political project he had undertaken alongside Ihejirika had always ended successfully.
He dismissed fears surrounding intimidation and electoral manipulation, insisting that “rigging is only possible when the people permit it,” while expressing confidence that the coalition possesses credible candidates capable of winning elections without desperation.
Obinwanne urged supporters not to focus on political handouts but to work for collective victory, arguing that sustainable governance benefits everyone more than temporary inducements. He further cautioned against insults, violence and political thuggery, insisting that campaigns must remain issue-based and peaceful.
“Politics will come and go, but the people will remain,” he stated, while emphasising that no single individual owns a political structure and that only a united political family can achieve lasting success.
On his part, Ekurume described the coalition as “a political marriage of like minds” built on trust, sincerity and shared vision. Recounting his long-standing relationship with Onyirimba, he disclosed that he first met the senatorial candidate through business engagements in the United States over a decade ago and found him to be truthful, focused and compassionate.
According to Ekurume, the decision to merge structures stemmed from the need to assemble credible leaders genuinely committed to service rather than personal ambition. He also praised Obinwanne and Ohakelem as selfless and dependable leaders whose character inspired confidence and partnership.
Describing Ohakelem as “a giver, not a receiver,” Ekurume said the alliance had now evolved into a strong political movement united by shared values, service and collective progress.
Responding to growing public curiosity over the coalition’s political platform, Ekurume downplayed concerns about party labels, insisting that what matters most is vision, direction and the quality of leadership being presented to the people.
“When the child is finally born, it will be properly trained,” he remarked metaphorically, drawing laughter and applause from attendees.
Also speaking, Obed Ajonuma, head of the movement in Ihitte/Uboma, warned against self-sabotage and internal division. According to him, elective offices should not be treated as retirement benefits but entrusted to individuals who understand and appreciate the plight of the people.
He urged members of the various support groups to work together like brothers united by a common objective.
In his remarks, Onyirimba described the meetings as a defining moment in the effort to rebuild and reposition Okigwe Zone. He noted that many had wondered why he, Ekurume and their allies maintained strategic silence in recent months, explaining that the quiet consultations were deliberate and aimed at building a stronger and more united political force.
Onyirimba described Ihitte/Uboma as foundational to his personal journey, recalling the role Madonna High School played in shaping his life and values.
He praised Ekurume as a compassionate and generous young man “with a big heart to give without being asked,” while describing Obinwanne and Ohakelem as sincere, dependable and service-driven leaders worthy of partnership.
According to Onyirimba, the coalition is founded on synergy, harmony and unity of purpose, stressing that no society can make meaningful progress without collective cooperation.
“Change is imminent in Okigwe,” he declared, assuring supporters that the various groups are now operating as one united structure without division.
Addressing supporters in Obowo, Onyirimba declared that “the grace of God will not allow Okigwe to be disgraced again,” describing the movement as the beginning of “a new season, a new birth, new grace and a new political awakening” for the zone.
He lamented the lack of unity among political leaders and insisted that the era of elected officials working in isolation must end if genuine development is to take place.
Hinting at the imminent unveiling of the coalition’s political platform, Onyirimba described the transition as moving “from a broken-down vehicle to a brand-new one,” adding that the political atmosphere across Okigwe Zone would soon come alive.
The meetings ended with a consensus endorsement and proclamation of support for Onyirimba and Ekurume in their National Assembly ambitions, and support for Onwuchurumba and Ohakelem in their state Assembly quest. The supporters and coordinators pledged to work together under one harmonised political structure ahead of the coming elections.
