There is some sort of frenzy in the Rescue mission camp of Governor Rochas Okorocha and the entire All Progressive Congress, APC over reports that the Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere has officially joined the Imo governorship race.
Madumere’s declaration was traced to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Uche Onwuchekwa when he addressed members of the All Progressive Congress, APC in his Mbaitoli Local Government Area. He was endorsed by the APC leadership in the area after similar endorsements had been received by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Uche Nwosu.
Nwosu has been linked to be Okorocha’s successor and as at last week he received the endorsement of the leadership of the All Progressive Congress, APC in Ikeduru, Orsu and Nkwerre Local Governments. The wave of endorsements had sparked uneasy in the party with majority of party members expressing divergent views on the development.
Sources said the endorsements may have prompted the Deputy Governor to move a step further by declaring his ambition officially.
Madumere’s declaration has raised the tempo for the scramble for Imo Governorship contest especially within Okorocha’s Rescue Mission camp. It was observed that the camp had been undecided on who to pitch their support between Madumere and Nwosu who in a rat race for Okorocha’s endorsement as successor.
Madumere appears to have the backing of some officials in the Rescue government from Owerri zone who are said to be latching on the zoning sentiment that it is the turn of Owerri zone to produce the next governor of the state. The APC leadership in Owerri zone led by Chris Oguoma had last year pushed for an Owerri zone governor.
Though Governor Okorocha has said he does not believe in zoning, the matter may be a contentious one when the chips are down.
However, sources said irrespective of who declares for the governorship contest within the Governor’s camp, it is Okorocha that holds the ace and will throw his weight of support to whoever he selects to be his successor.
Sources around the Deputy Governor expressed optimism on his ambition. A more elaborate event may be held to announce the ambition of the Deputy Governor at a later date.
“ The journey is clear and the road is good” said a top level source close to the Deputy Governor.
