The once-frosty relationship between former Governor Rochas Okorocha and Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State seems to be thawing, as some of Okorocha’s loyalists are reportedly slated for inclusion in the upcoming cabinet, signaling a potential and total reconciliation between the two political heavyweights.
Since Uzodimma assumed office in 2020 following the landmark Supreme Court judgment that ousted former Governor Emeka Ihedioha, tensions between Okorocha and Uzodinma have simmered, exacerbated by the confiscation of properties allegedly owned by Okorocha.
These properties, including the Eastern Palm University Ogboko in Ideato South, were reclaimed by the Uzodimma administration and renamed as K.O Mbadiwe University.
Also, the Royal Spring Apartment, formerly belonging to Okorocha’s wife, Nkechi Okorocha, was also seized.
The rift between the two escalated further when Okorocha, a founding member of the governing All Progressives Congress, APC, found himself marginalized within the party he helped establish.
Despite his political stature and tenure as a serving Senator representing Orlu Zone, Okorocha, who vied for the presidential ticket of the APC received zero votes from Imo State during the party’s Presidential primary in 2023 in Abuja
However, recent developments suggest a possible détente between the erstwhile adversaries, as Okorocha’s allies are reportedly being considered for positions in the new cabinet.
INNONEWS learnt that this conciliatory gesture indicates a willingness on the part of both Okorocha and Uzodinma to mend fences totally and move forward in the interest of the state.
Sources within Government House, Owerri, reveal that Uzodimma not only entertained input from Okorocha, but also solicited feedback from other key stakeholders in the State regarding the composition of the new cabinet.
The source said “This inclusive approach by the governor reflects a commitment to fostering unity and collaboration among Imo’s political elite”
While Uzodimma’s prolonged absence from Imo since his inauguration has drawn criticisms for exacerbating the state’s challenges, including rising unemployment and economic hardship, the prospect of a total reconciliation with Okorocha and other top political stakeholders offers a glimmer of hope for improved governance and stability in Imo.
A chieftain of the APC in the State and a close ally of the Governor told this newspaper on condition of anonymity that as anticipation mounts for the unveiling of the new cabinet, Imo residents should remain optimistic about the potential for a new era of cooperation and progress under the leadership of Governor Uzodimma.
He said “The inclusion of Okorocha’s allies in the upcoming cabinet signals a significant step towards healing the fractures that have divided the state’s political landscape in recent years”