Political analysts are speculating that former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, may join the Labour Party (LP) as his next political destination following his recent resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In his resignation letter addressed to the PDP Chairman of his Mbutu Ward, Ihedioha cited a misalignment between the party’s direction and his personal beliefs as the reason for his departure.
While Ihedioha has yet to officially announce his next move, analysts believe that his eyes are set on the 2027 Imo governorship election, with the LP emerging as the frontrunner to provide the necessary political platform to propel his gubernatorial ambition.
Renowned political commentator, MrJohn Ucheoma highlighted to INNONEWS, the LP’s stronghold in Imo State and the South East region, describing it as the most vibrant political party capable of propelling Ihedioha’s gubernatorial aspirations to fruition.
“The LP is solid in Imo. It is a mass movement and Ihedioha would find it as the right platform to revive his guber ambition,” Ucheoma stated.
He emphasized the LP’s electoral successes in the 2023 general elections, including winning the presidential election in Imo State and securing seats in the Senate, House of Reps amd State Hoise of Assembly, which he noted, underscored it’s potential to mobilize support for Ihedioha’s candidacy.
Echoing Ucheoma’s sentiments, Mr. Ernest Njoku , another analyst, emphasized Ihedioha’s potential to enhance the LP’s political influence and pose a formidable challenge to both the APC and PDP in the gubernatorial race in Imo State in 2027.
“The Labour party enjoys enormous political capital in Imo State and the South East. It has massive acceptance, and the Peter Obi factor remains so strong in the State.”he stated
Njoku pointed to Governor Alex Otti’s impressive performance in Abia State as evidence of the LP’s capacity to deliver governance and connect with the masses, factors that could bolster Ihedioha’s bid for Imo governorship.
“With political sympathy stemming from his controversial removal as governor combined with the LP’s grassroots appeal, Ihedioha can leverage these factors in his quest to reclaim the governorship of Imo State in the 2027 elections” he stated.