LP’s Zoning Dilemma In Edo: Will It Follow APC And PDP’s Lead?

LP’s Zoning Dilemma In Edo: Will It Follow APC And PDP’s Lead? ....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah 

In Nigeria’s electoral practice, zoning refers to the informal arrangement or understanding among political parties or stakeholders to rotate or allocate political positions based on geographical regions, ethnic groups, or other criteria…CONTINUE READING.

It aims to ensure equitable distribution of political power among various regions or groups within the country. Zoning typically involves an agreement to take turns or allocate positions such as the presidency, governorships, or other key offices among different regions or ethnic groups to foster inclusivity, reduce political tensions, and promote national unity.

While the concept of zoning is often discussed and advocated for in Nigerian politics as a means to achieve equitable distribution of power among different regions or ethnic groups, its actual implementation has faced challenges. Despite calls for zoning, political parties and leaders often prioritize individual interests, power struggles, and party dynamics over the principle of zoning.

The forthcoming Edo Gubernatorial elections have revived discussions about zoning principles and the necessity for a fair distribution of power across the three geopolitical zones. Certain voices advocate for political parties to allocate the Governorship ticket to Edo Central, specifically the Esan district, emphasizing the need for their inclusion in governance after an extended period of alleged marginalization.

By enacting a zoning policy for the governorship ticket, the Labour Party—which is quickly becoming more and more well-known both nationally and in Edo State—runs the risk of losing credibility and power within the state.

For instance, in Edo State, if regions historically marginalized such as Owan and Akoko-Edo are identified, they should rightfully receive priority consideration due to their prolonged exclusion from significant federal appointments, political roles, and absence from occupying the Government House at Dennis Osadebe Avenue, either in the governorship or deputy positions.

Chief Tony Anenih, one of the most influential PDP leaders to have ever emerged in the nation, gave Edo Central enormous political appointments—so much so that they generated back-to-back A list ministers—as well as other high-ranking appointments, such as board appointees and others.

One disadvantage of zoning the governorship in Edo State is the potential limitation it imposes on the selection of the best-qualified candidate. When governance positions are zoned to specific regions within the state, it can overlook competent individuals from other regions who might possess superior leadership skills, experience, or innovative ideas.

This limitation based on geographical boundaries rather than meritocracy might result in the exclusion of highly capable leaders, potentially impacting the overall development and progress of the state.

It would be a misguided strategy for the LP to take a risk that might not be justifiable in the long run. Prioritizing zoning, which historically hasn’t been feasible in the state, could hinder the party’s ability not only to win elections (its primary objective in seeking power) but also to make a significant impact in the state.

The previous election in the state, like many across the country including the presidency, disregarded zoning and remained open to all qualified Nigerians, whether for the presidency or governorship.