Time’s Now: DNA Reps Slot Belongs to Dunukofia
The Traditional Rulers of Dunukofia, the Presidents-General of its communities, and other critical stakeholders in Anambra State have jointly appealed to all political parties in Nigeria to graciously zone the Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency seat to Dunukofia Local Government Area in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
In an open letter addressed to the National Chairmen of all registered political parties, the stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for inclusivity and equitable representation by allowing Dunukofia to produce the next member of the House of Representatives for the DNA Federal Constituency.
The letter, signed by prominent traditional rulers including HRH Igwe Dr. Robert Eze (Okofia VI), Igwe of Ukpo; HRM Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno (JP), Igwe of Ifitedunu; and other royal fathers, alongside Presidents-General such as Chief Sir Cyrilwalter Ezewulu (Ukpo), Prof. Stephen Ufuaro (Ifitedunu), and Engr. Ofodile Anieto (Umunnachi), was also copied to the leadership of major political parties including APC, APGA, ADC, PDP, LP, YPP, SDP, and ZLP.
In the letter, the stakeholders expressed “profound respect for the democratic principles that guide our great nation” and acknowledged the critical role political parties play in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
They noted that their appeal is rooted in fairness, justice, and the pursuit of lasting unity within the constituency.
They stated:“The Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha Federal Constituency comprises three Local Government Areas: Dunukofia (14 political wards), Njikoka (18 political wards), and Anaocha (19 political wards). Over the past 28 years, representation in the House of Representatives has rotated exclusively between Njikoka and Anaocha LGAs—16 years and 12 years respectively—largely due to their population advantage.
While this reflects the democratic principle of majority rule, it has inadvertently resulted in the prolonged exclusion of Dunukofia from federal legislative representation.”
The stakeholders stressed that this persistent marginalization has created a deep sense of political alienation among the people of Dunukofia, despite their consistent participation in elections and contributions to the constituency’s development.
“For nearly three decades, the people of Dunukofia have watched representation circulate solely between their sister LGAs. This reality undermines the spirit of inclusiveness and weakens confidence in the democratic process,” the letter added.
They revealed that, in pursuit of justice and equity, Dunukofia leaders had engaged their counterparts in Njikoka and Anaocha, who responded positively and expressed support for the call to correct the imbalance.
Describing this development as a demonstration of political maturity and collective responsibility, the stakeholders noted that the backing of Njikoka and Anaocha leaders reflects a shared commitment to fairness and unity across the constituency.
Consequently, they formally urged all political parties to zone the 2027 House of Representatives ticket for the DNA Federal Constituency exclusively to candidates from Dunukofia LGA.
“This is not a demand rooted in entitlement, but a principled appeal based on rotational equity, inclusivity, and the need to strengthen our collective identity as one constituency,” they stated.
The stakeholders further argued that granting the request would:Uphold the spirit of equity by ensuring every component LGA has a sense of belonging in national representation;
Promote unity and peace by reinforcing trust in the fairness of the political system;Reward patience and democratic loyalty demonstrated by Dunukofia over decades of exclusion;
Establish a precedent for justice, showing that democracy goes beyond numbers to embrace fairness and inclusion.
They acknowledged that such a decision would require sacrifice, particularly from Njikoka and Anaocha, but commended their stakeholders for already demonstrating goodwill and support for the initiative.
“The alignment of Njikoka and Anaocha stakeholders with this position underscores their commitment to the greater good of the constituency. It is a testament to their statesmanship and belief in equitable power-sharing,” the letter noted.
The stakeholders expressed confidence in the leadership of political parties to act in accordance with democratic values and national cohesion.
“By conceding the 2027 contest to Dunukofia, political parties will not only correct a historical imbalance but also lay the foundation for a more united, equitable, and harmonious constituency.
We trust in your wisdom and sense of justice, and we remain hopeful for a positive response.”they stated.
The letter was signed by the following leaders of Dunukofia LGA:
Traditional Rulers:
HRH Igwe Dr. Robert Eze (Okofia VI), Igwe of Ukpo
HRM Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno (JP), Igwe of Ifitedunu
Igwe Engr. Ben Anochie (Agidigbo), Igwe of Umunnachi
High Chief Dr. Ben Amuta, Regent of Umudioka
HRH Igwe Peter Uyanwa (Ezedike), Igwe of Ukwulu
HRH Igwe George Okaa-Onwuogu (Igwe Orachili), Igwe of Nawgu
Presidents-General:
Chief Sir Cyrilwalter Ezewulu (Ukpo)
Prof. Stephen Ufuaro (Ifitedunu)
Engr. Ofodile Anieto (Umunnachi)
Chief Onyechi Val Adinnu (Umudioka)
Hon. Uba Ayiofu (Ukwulu)
Hon. Mathew Ibebugwu (Nawgu)
