By Nkechinyere Ewa
As political conversations ahead of the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum across Ebonyi State, a socio-cultural body known as the Ezza Ezekuna Development Association (EEDA), has thrown its weight behind the state’s long-standing zoning arrangement, insisting that political stability and equity must remain paramount in determining future leadership succession.
The association, making its first major public intervention since its registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission in April 2024, used a press conference to outline its vision, address issues affecting Ezza people, and clarify its position on contemporary political developments in the state.
The endorsement of the political understanding that reserves the governorship of Ebonyi State for Ebonyi North Senatorial Zone until 2031 was their main message to the public.
For EEDA, the zoning arrangement is more than a political convenience; it is a mechanism that has helped sustain harmony and foster inclusion among the diverse communities that make up the state since its creation.
The association maintained that respect for the existing succession formula remains critical to preserving the peace and stability Ebonyi has enjoyed over the years.
The association, National President, Chief Kingsley Akam, said Ezza people have consistently supported the principle of political equity and would not be party to any attempt to undermine the arrangement.
According to him, political ambition should never supersede collective interest or threaten the stability of the state.
“Ezza people have always stood on the side of justice, fairness and equity. The governorship remains in Ebonyi North in accordance with the established zoning understanding, and we fully support that arrangement,” he stated.
The association also used the occasion to express strong support for Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, citing his administration’s efforts in peacebuilding, infrastructure development, human capital advancement, education and youth empowerment.
EEDA described the governor’s achievements as evidence of purposeful leadership and pledged the cooperation of Ezza people in supporting programmes aimed at strengthening development across the state.
In a significant political declaration, the association formally endorsed Governor Nwifuru for a second term in office, arguing that continuity would help consolidate the gains already recorded by his administration.
The endorsement, according to EEDA, was based on what it described as the governor’s commitment to inclusive governance and the overall development of Ebonyi State.
Beyond politics, the association presented itself as a platform designed to unify Ezza people and coordinate developmental efforts across communities.
It said the absence of a broad-based and legally recognised body had, for years, limited the ability of Ezza people to speak with one voice on issues affecting their collective interests.
EEDA noted that its emergence was intended to fill that gap by providing strategic leadership, advocacy and engagement on matters of public concern.
The association further pledged to work closely with traditional leaders, professionals, academics, business leaders, youth groups and political stakeholders to advance a common development agenda for Ezza communities.
Prof. Chike Onwe former commissioner for information in the state used the media to criticis a group known as the Umuekumenyi Leaders’ Council, which EEDA described as lacking legal recognition and representative legitimacy.
The association argued that the council did not speak for Ezza people and rejected any claims that its positions reflected the collective views of the wider Umuekumenyi constituency.
The association called on Ezza sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora to reject division, embrace development and work together toward a common future.