As political tension boils over in Rivers State between Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, is being advised to “shine his eyes” and carefully select a worthy successor from Owerri Zone ahead of the 2027 guber elections.
Uzodimma, who was re-elected as governor in 2023, is expected to complete his second term by 2027.
The Owerri Zone Awareness Coalition (OZAC), a leading socio-political group advocating for an Imo governor of Owerri zone extraction to succeed Uzodimma, has urged the governor to observe the political crisis in Rivers State and avoid a similar fate in Imo.
OZAC President, Emmanuel Okwu, in a statement made available to INNONEWS, emphasized that the ongoing conflict between Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike serves as a cautionary tale for Uzodimma.
“Much as the political dynamics in Rivers State and Imo State are different, it is imperative for caution to be applied by His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, in choosing a worthy successor within his party who shares his ideals and commitment to the progress, prosperity, and development of Imo State,” Okwu stated.
The socio-political group stressed that picking a successor from Owerri zone, in line with the Imo Charter of Equity, is crucial for maintaining peace and political harmony in the state.
“OZAC believes that sticking to the Charter would ensure that the governorship position rotates fairly among the state’s three zones starting from Owerri, subsequently to Okigwe, and Orlu zones”
“OZAC firmly believes that adhering to the Imo Charter of Equity remains the only pathway to ensure an ideal successor from Owerri zone emerges. It will bring fairness, balance, and stability to the state’s political firmament,” the group said.
OZAC stance comes amid heightened political speculation in Imo State over who will succeed Uzodimma in 2027.
It reminded the governor of the dangers of choosing a wrong sucessor, referencing recent incidents in Rivers, where Governor Fubara’s fallout with his predecessor Wike has raised concerns.
“In light of the unpalatable political developments in Rivers State, we call for caution and thorough introspection on the part of Governor Uzodimma and stakeholders in the State as they search for a successor from Owerri zone,” the group urged.
OZAC emphasized that the state has no shortage of capable candidates from Owerri zone who can uphold Uzodimma’s achievements.
“We have an array of credible and worthy sons of Imo State from Owerri zone who can continue the worthy legacies of Governor Uzodimma when he leaves office. Their political maturity and commitment to the state’s development are undeniable,” the statement added.
“OZAC demands that only a governor from Owerri zone will reflect the spirit of inclusivity and equity that Imo State desperately needs” the statement concluded.