By Dr Ify Aronu
Politics is not merely about winning elections; it is about building and preserving values that strengthen society.
One of the most enduring political innovations in Anambra State is the zoning arrangement championed by the administration of Mr Peter Obi. Over the past two decades, what began as a political understanding has matured into a respected convention that guarantees fairness, inclusion and equity among the state’s three senatorial zones.
Today, the Anambra zoning formula has become much more than a policy of the ruling party. It has evolved into a defining feature of the state’s political culture, transcending party affiliations and reinforcing the ideals of justice, balance and peaceful coexistence.
A Tested Formula for Peace
Over the years, there have been several attempts to undermine or abandon the zoning arrangement in favour of sectional political interests. Yet, on every occasion, Ndi Anambra have spoken through the ballot, reaffirming their commitment to the principle of equitable power rotation.
This enduring support reflects the cherished Igbo philosophy of “Onye aghana nwanne ya”, let no one leave their brother behind. It is a philosophy that has strengthened political stability, fostered unity and promoted inclusive governance across the state.
The Big Question After Soludo
As Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo advances through his second term, conversations about the next political dispensation have naturally intensified.
The critical question now is simple: Will Anambra sustain the zoning culture after Soludo?
The true strength of any successful system lies not in how it begins, but in whether succeeding generations are willing to preserve it. If the zoning arrangement has consistently promoted peace, fairness and a sense of belonging among the three senatorial zones, then it deserves to be strengthened, not abandoned.
As Governor Soludo himself once remarked, “If it is not broken, why mend it?” Indeed, if the zoning system has served Anambra well, why discard it?
A Tradition of Inclusive Leadership
Since the creation of Anambra State in 1991, leadership has largely reflected the principles of equity and inclusiveness.
Although zoning was initially unwritten, the emergence of APGA under Peter Obi institutionalised rotational leadership as a guiding political philosophy.
Anambra South produced Dr Chinwoke Mbadinuju (1999–2003) and Chief Willie Obiano (2014–2022). Anambra Central produced Mr. Peter Obi (2006–2014), whose administration laid the foundation for the current zoning culture, while the incumbent governor, Professor Soludo, represents Anambra North.
This sequence demonstrates a deliberate effort to ensure that no senatorial zone remains permanently excluded from occupying the state’s highest office.
The Lesson for Anambra Youths
For the youth of Anambra, this conversation extends far beyond electoral politics. The zoning formula represents one of the democratic values that define the state’s identity as the “Light of the Nation.”
Young people learn more from the consistent actions of leaders than from their speeches. When political leaders honour agreements, respect established conventions and place the collective interest above personal ambition, they teach future generations invaluable lessons about democracy, patience, fairness, responsibility and patriotism.
The zoning culture has therefore become part of the political heritage inherited by Anambra youths.
Why the Legacy Must Be Protected
Abandoning zoning in favour of narrow political calculations would not only disrupt the existing political balance but also send a dangerous message to younger generations, that commitments can be ignored whenever they become inconvenient and that political power should be pursued without regard for fairness or inclusion.
Such a departure would undermine the very political culture that has helped preserve peace and stability in Anambra State.
Preserving Stability and Development
Sustaining the zoning arrangement will continue to strengthen public confidence in the democratic process, reduce unnecessary political tension, deepen trust among the senatorial zones and reinforce the principle that every part of Anambra is an equal stakeholder in the state’s future.
A stable political culture also provides the certainty required to attract investment, strengthen governance and encourage sustainable long-term development free from avoidable political disruption.
The Road Ahead
The next governorship election presents another opportunity to consolidate this remarkable political legacy. Following the established rotational arrangement, the next governor after Professor Soludo should emerge from Anambra Central Senatorial Zone.
For Anambra youths, preserving this tradition offers hope. It reinforces the belief that systems should be respected, promises honoured and leadership transitions guided by fairness rather than political expediency.
Ultimately, the future of Anambra is not simply about who wins elections. It is about preserving a political culture founded on equity, stability and shared prosperity.
The Anambra Zoning Formula remains one of the state’s greatest democratic legacies. It is a legacy worth protecting for generations yet unborn.
Dr Ify Aronu is a youth development promoter and lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. She writes from Amawbia, Anambra State.
