It was with a deep sense of disappointment that I recently encountered articles filled with baseless accusations against me and the Mbieri Nwaotuoke Union, alleging that we have been extorting aspirants.
These articles, crafted by individuals whose intentions are evidently malicious, not only tried to tarnish my reputation, but also attempted to undermine the integrity of our people who sent us to speak for them.
The lengths to which some people will go to achieve their selfish motives are truly shocking.
For some time now, the political atmosphere in Mbaitoli has been tense, with a heated conflict over the zoning of the chairmanship position. The stakes are high, and tensions have risen, leading to a division among the various political blocs within our Local Government.
In Mbaitoli North, where our esteemed House of Assembly member, Hon. Engr. Innocent Ikpamezie hails from, there has been a consensus to step aside from contesting the chairmanship position.
This decision was made in the spirit of unity and to promote fairness within Mbaitoli.
However, the situation in Mbaitoli South has been quite different. Despite holding the second most powerful position in the state—the Deputy Governor of Imo State—the political bloc in the South has been at odds with us in the East.
One factor that appears to be working in favor of the South, particularly those in the All Progressives Congress (APC), is that they are presenting a unified front by fielding a single candidate in the upcoming primary election. This strategic move significantly increases their chances of success.
In stark contrast, the situation within our own ranks in the East is far less organized. We have a staggering 13 candidates from the APC alone vying for this single position. If you ask me, it seems like we are setting ourselves up for failure. This is why I felt compelled to step in and emphasize the importance of wisdom and caution in this matter.
Akọ na uche ka ejị eme ihe umunne’m. Wisdom and caution are what we need in these critical times, my brothers and sisters.
Let us consider the scenario carefully: if the candidate from the South manages to secure a bloc vote from his region and then picks up additional support from the North, while we divide our votes among 13 candidates, are we not, in essence, handing over this position—one that rightfully belongs to us in the East—to the South?
So, I ask, where did I, Prof. Chinedu Asinu-Anosike (CONA), go wrong? Where did the Mbieri Nwaotuoke Union go wrong?
Did I commit a grave offense by calling on our brothers and sisters to come together, to evaluate and select two or three candidates we can all rally behind, rather than allowing everyone to run this race like sheep without a shepherd?
It is essential to understand that the Mbieri Nwaotuoke Union, as a sociocultural organization, has the right to invite aspirants to debates where they can present their ideas and vision for the people. This process is not only legitimate but also necessary to ensure that the best candidates emerge.
This is not the first time such a process has taken place. It happens during every executive election, and in similar scenarios, some organized communities follow a similar process to harmonize their aspirants and present one or two candidates. This approach is far more effective than weakening their chances by fielding too many candidates, which only leads to division and a loss of focus.
What is most disheartening in this situation is the baseless accusation of extortion. I find it particularly painful when I have spent my own money and utilized my resources to ensure that our people do not lose out. My intentions have always been to safeguard the interests of Mbieri and to ensure that we are not left out in the cold when the final decisions are made.
Clearly, those behind this malicious publication have ulterior motives that do not align with the best interests of the Mbieri Nation. If they truly cared about our people, they would support this noble cause and encourage weaker aspirants to step down and back others, ensuring that we do not squander this golden opportunity. Their actions raise a troubling question: have they been influenced by elements in the South to allow Mbieri to tear itself apart? That is the only explanation I see for anyone opposing a move that would help ensure our votes matter and bring us victory at the primaries.
Another angle I see in this unfortunate turn of events is the possibility that this might be the handiwork of a few failed individuals who cannot stand before their people and convincingly explain how they would fare as Chairman of Mbaitoli. These individuals, knowing their lack of substance and credibility, may be resorting to underhanded tactics to distract from their inadequacies.
But let me be clear: Mbieri cannot afford to send someone who would disappoint us before the entire Mbaitoli. We cannot afford to let failures represent us and put us to shame when they inevitably mismanage the trust the people bestow on them. This is not just about winning an election; it is about ensuring that the person who represents us has the competence, integrity, and vision to lead Mbaitoli forward.
If you cannot stand before your own people and tell us what you have to offer as the leader of Mbaitoli, how can we trust you with our support and votes? Leadership is not about hiding behind baseless accusations or attempting to manipulate public opinion through falsehoods. It is about standing tall, presenting your vision with clarity, and earning the trust of the people through your actions and words.
I hereby call on our people to judge this matter on your own and decide for yourselves who the true enemies of Mbieri Nation and Mbaitoli as a whole are. Look beyond the smokescreens of deceit and recognize those who are genuinely working for the betterment of our people and Mbaitoli as a whole. Do not be swayed by the lies and fabrications of those who seek to divide us for their own gain.
Let us unite as one people, with one voice, and choose leaders who will truly represent our interests and uphold the dignity of Mbaitoli. We have a golden opportunity before us, and it is up to us to seize it. We must not allow ourselves to be distracted by those who do not have the best interests of our people and the great people of Mbaitoli at heart.
God bless Mbieri Nwaotuoke, God bless Mbieri Nation, and God bless Mbaitoli.
My name is Prof. Chinedu Asinu-Anosike CONA,
Acting President General, Mbieri Nwaotuoke Union.
The Deputy Gov of Imo State is from Mbieri, MBAITOLI East.
The Deputy Gov of Imo State is a daughter of Mbieri, MBAITOLI East.
You people cannot have everything all the time.