A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Cletus Obun, has called for equitable zoning of party positions ahead of the party’s National Convention, warning that imbalanced arrangements could undermine internal cohesion and weaken the party’s electoral strength.
Speaking during an interview on ARISE News on Monday, Obun said the APC’s zoning arrangement must reflect fairness, constitutional provisions, and inclusivity across all geopolitical zones to ensure unity within the party.
He noted that while the current zoning structure appears sound at the national level, there are concerns about internal imbalances within certain regions, particularly the South-South zone, which he said has not been fairly represented over time.
According to him, party positions are meant to ensure that all states feel included and represented, stressing that equity in zoning is critical to sustaining support at the grassroots level.
Obun explained that some states, such as Cross River, have been left without representation in the party’s National Working Committee following the exit of former officials, creating what he described as an imbalance in political representation.
He warned that retaining positions in their current locations without adjustments could deepen feelings of marginalisation among party members in underrepresented areas.
The APC chieftain argued that zoning should not only be about maintaining the status quo but also about correcting existing imbalances to ensure fairness across all zones and states.
He further emphasised the need for micro-zoning within states, noting that internal diversity within regions must be considered to prevent political exclusion of minority groups.
Obun cautioned that failure to adopt a more inclusive zoning formula could lead to political apathy among affected groups, which may ultimately affect voter turnout and party performance in elections.
He maintained that while the APC has remained relatively united, internal dissatisfaction could create tensions if not properly addressed through fair zoning and political compensation.
Obun added that leadership must avoid imposing candidates or concentrating power in a few areas, warning that such actions could lead to what he described as “political imbalance and internal crisis.”
He, however, expressed confidence that the party leadership could resolve the concerns through dialogue and fair adjustments ahead of the convention.
According to him, achieving balance in zoning would strengthen internal harmony, promote inclusivity, and position the APC for greater electoral success.
According to him, “You may enforce your party officers on your candidates; you will not be able to enforce your votes,” highlighting the importance of internal fairness in securing electoral success.
Obun concluded that equity, fairness, and internal justice remain essential to maintaining party unity and ensuring long-term political stability.
Triumph Ojo
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