Following the ongoing political crisis in APC and APGA in Imo State and the lack of acceptability of the PDP candidate, leaders in Orlu Zone have backed the candidacy of Amb. Tony Kelvin Obinna the flag bearer of the New Progressive Movement.

This resolution was reached during the Orlu Zonal Meeting held on October 18, 2018, where leaders of the zone have decided to throw their weight behind the governorship candidate of New Progressive Movement (NPM) for Imo State, Ambassador Tony Kelvin Obinna and his running mate, Dr Crystal Jane Cosmas Osakwe. This decision was communicated to the public by the chairman of Orlu Zone Political Forum (OZPF) Chief M. A. Ahaonu.

This endorsement was borne of out the need for equity, justice and balance, and the leaders of the Orlu Zone being of the dire consequences of the political imbalance have taken steps to correct a major injustice that is about to be perpetrated by some political elements in the state who have been machinating to scheme the Owerri zone out of the political equation in Imo State through attempts to retain power in Orlu Zone where it has resided for 16 years.

Leaders of the zone are also satisfied with the position of the deputy governor that was given to their daughter, Dr Crystal Jane Cosmas Osakwe and they have consequently given her their blessings and support to achieve victory at the polls.

"With this endorsement, Orlu Zone leaders have affirmed in good conscience that it is high time an Owerri man is given the opportunity to govern Imo State"

It is also believed that 2019, will not be about political parties but the individual and the opportunity to balance power in Imo State and to carry every part of the state along.

Orlu indigenes who spoke about the decision of their leaders to back the NPM candidate and his running mate, said they are in support of their leaders on the matter and they have vowed to mobilize massively to help Owerri zone and Ambassador Tony Kelvin Obinna to realize this ambition. One of those who spoke to our correspondent said Orlu people are happy with the endorsement and they are "strongly behind the move"

Ambassador Tony Kelvin Obinna is the only Owerri indigene in the race and he is the youngest candidate in the contest, with vast connection and in-depth knowledge of what Imo State needs to turn its fortunes around. Ambassador Tony Kelvin Obinna is considered the most suitable candidate by Orlu leaders. This is because of his peaceful disposition and ability to bring Imo indigenes together in the face of rancorous political atmosphere occasioned by candidates of the three major political parties in the state, who are considered part of the problems befalling the state.

By this endorsement the leaders of Orlu Zone are showing their total support for Owerri zone and are solidly behind their daughter who was nominated as the deputy Governorship candidate of the NPM.