Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Mrs. Maria Ude Nwachi, a former member of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, has called for the jettisoning of zoning policy in elections arguing that it breeds mediocrity.
This is as she threw her weight behind the governorship ambition of Mr. Ifeanyichukwu Odii.
Mr. Odii, a Lagos- based businessman and a member of the Lagos State University Governing Council is aspiring to govern Ebonyi State under the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
Mrs. Nwachi, who represented Afikpo North/East State Constituency from 2015 to 2019, in an interview with journalists, said the state needed a vibrant leader like Mr. Odii, adding that he will be the best thing to happen to the state in 2023.
She described Mr. Odii as a service-oriented leader who is untainted by the present corrupt political system in the country.
“It is rare to see someone that has emerged from outside the system. I knew nothing about politics when I was elected, I went in and served and served and even forgot to serve myself. I practice Service Politics, and we are highly likely to be blessed with a Governor with the same mindset in the person of Ifeanyichukwu Odii.
“I honestly see Odii as Maria on speed, Maria at the highest level possible. So, you can imagine what will happen. It seems too good to be true that we are going to get such a governor; but it is very possible and then Ebonyi will rejoice,” she predicted.
On the argument that zoning does not favour Mr. Odii as he comes from the same Ebonyi South zone with the incumbent Governor, David Umahi, Mrs. Nwachi said the practice should be jettisoned as it breeds mediocrity.
“I am personally and completely against zoning. I have always been against zoning as I equate it with mediocrity. I will support anyone I believe that has the capacity to win the election and to lead us effectively.
“I would not care where they come from. I am reminded that every zone has taken its turn, and so the governorship can start from anywhere in 2023. But even if it were not so, I will still want the best to clinch the position no matter where they come from, and as it is now, Odii is levels above the others, in all ramifications,” she said.
