Traditional rulers in Enugu State have thrown their weight behind the zoning arrangement for the governorship position. They say it's a deliberate strategy to keep the peace and ensure fairness across the state's three senatorial zones.
The monarchs made their position known at a book launch held at the Enugu International Conference Centre on Thursday. The event featured the presentation of a new publication on the state's rotational governor system.
Lawrence Agubuzu, former chairman of the state's Traditional Rulers Council, led the charge in defending zoning. He noted that the practice has kept Enugu stable since democracy returned in 1999.
"Rotation among the three senatorial districts has given us peace since 1999," Agubuzu said at the event. He stressed that the arrangement ensures each zone gets a fair shot at the top job.
Agubuzu urged political players to maintain the unity that zoning has created. He warned against any moves that could disrupt the careful balance the system provides.
In his words, Governor Peter Mbah deserves backing to complete a second term. Agubuzu commended the governor's development projects across the state, saying they merit recognition through continued support.
Godwin Madu, Traditional Ruler of Achi Clan, echoed similar sentiments during the gathering. Madu chairs the Enugu West Traditional Rulers Council and carries significant influence in that zone.
He called for peace among politicians as 2027 approaches. Madu specifically urged aspirants from Enugu East to rally behind Governor Mbah rather than fight among themselves.
According to Madu, allowing the governor a full two terms shows political maturity. It would also reduce tensions that often flare up during succession contests, he noted.
Though traditional rulers don't pick sides in partisan politics, they have a duty to guide the people, Madu explained. Their role includes promoting stability and peace in the political space.
Samuel Asadu, the current chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council, backed Madu's remarks entirely. Asadu called on politicians to show caution and responsibility in their conduct.
Chinedu Onu, who reviewed the book, described zoning as an unwritten convention that evolved over time. He said it's fundamentally about justice and equity, not about grabbing power.
"Zoning reflects justice and it is not about power play," Onu told the audience. He pointed out that neighboring states facing political turmoil are now studying Enugu's model.
Cosmas Agu, represented by Emeka Ugwuaba, credited the zoning system with Enugu's relative peace. He called the book an important scholarly contribution to Nigeria's political discourse.
The publication was authored by Cyril Uchenna Anioke and three collaborators. It examines how Enugu developed and sustained its unique rotational approach to selecting governors.
