Policy Briefs

 Obaze speaks on political zoning and cross political tier aspirations


A media house recently sought the views of Selonnes Consult MD/CEO Mr Oseloka H. Obaze on the question of political zoning in broad terms, and cross political tier aspirations of elected legislative officers. His response is excerpted below: 

“Political Zoning in any form is usually meant to ensure equity. Once equity is achieved, the premise ought to shift to securing purposeful leadership, and the capacity to lead and deliver good governance. Insisting on zoning, entails the risk of enthroning mediocrity, even if unwittingly.  

“Southeast politicians already elected by popular mandate to the legislative arm of government should as a matter of principle remain there to represent and serve the people and party that voted them in. They should not aspire to run for executive arm offices. Their task ought to be to serve in the capacity to which the people entrusted them, thus strengthening their representative and oversight role. Engaging in cross political tier aspirations, should be considered insensately ambitious and unacceptable.”

Oseloka Obaze, MD & CEO

Oseloka Obaze, MD & CEO

Mr. Obaze is the former Secretary to the State Government of Anambra State, Nigeria from 2012 to 2015 - MD & CEO, Oseloka H. Obaze. Mr. Obaze also served as a former United Nations official, from 1991-2012, and as a former member of the Nigerian Diplomatic Service, from 1982-1991.

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