Discussions about who will succeed Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State have intensified, even though he still has two years to complete his tenure. This early focus is not surprising, as concerned Imolites are eager to ensure the state continues on the path of progress and development after Uzodimma’s administration. The stakes are high, and the question of who he will choose from his political camp to succeed him has thus far become a subject of intense speculation and debate in the State.
Choosing a successor is no small task; it requires balancing political interests, public expectations, and administrative capability. Historically, this has been a challenging feat for past Imo governors. Achike Udenwa, Ikedi Ohakim, and Rochas Okorocha all struggled to produce successors. They ultimately failed to achieve this feat. Will Uzodimma break this jinx and, if so, how will he navigate the complexities of such a critical decision?
Adding another dimension to the discussion is the Imo Charter of Equity, which advocates for the rotation of the governorship among the state’s three zones. Owerri Zone, having long been sidelined, is clamouring for its turn. Okigwe zone is also making a strong claim to the governorship seat. Uzodimma, who hails from Orlu Zone, has reportedly promised to honour the principles and tenets of the Charter.. However, beyond zonal considerations, the governor must keenly focus on finding a successor with the vision, competence, and leadership qualities needed to transform Imo State.
One potential strategy Uzodimma could adopt is grooming a successor from his inner circle, someone who has learned the ropes of governance under his watch. This approach mirrors the case of Francis Nwifuru, the current governor of Ebonyi State, who rose from humble beginnings (he was said to be once a bricklayer) to become a two times member, and later Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly before succeeding Dave Umahi. Nwifuru’s story highlights the value of loyalty and mentorship but also underscores the risks if such a protégé fails to deliver.
Lessons from other states also serve as cautionary tales. In Rivers State, former governor Nyesom Wike handpicked Siminalayi Fubara, a protégé who once served as Accountant General, as his successor. Despite Fubara’s initial loyalty and humble background(he was once a classroom teacher), his relationship with Wike since he became Governor has deteriorated into a bitter feud, raising questions about the wisdom of choosing a loyalist over a tested, capable and dependable person.
Another viable option is selecting a seasoned administrator with a proven track record. This individual would not only embody Uzodimma’s governance philosophy but also reassure stakeholders and citizens of his ability to lead the State effectively. A seasoned administrator could strike a balance between continuity and innovation, ensuring that Imo State’s progress and development is sustained.
Uzodimma could also consider a dependable ally or friend, someone who has demonstrated managerial competence and enjoys acceptance across Imo’s three senatorial zones. Such a person would need to combine administrative acumen with a deep understanding of the state’s socio-political dynamics.
Alternatively, he might opt for a core politician deeply entrenched in Imo’s political firmament. While this choice could foster broader consensus, it carries the risk of entrenched interests overshadowing developmental goals.
Beyond individual capabilities, Uzodimma’s choice must also reflect the promise to honour Owerri Zone in the succession plan. Choosing a successor from the zone could address longstanding grievances of marginalization and promote inclusivity. However, the selected sucessor must be more than just a symbol of equity—he must possess the vision, competence, and exposure to drive economic transformation and manage the state’s resources effectively.
Imo State also requires a leader exposed to the world of business, someone who understands the intricacies of economic power, a manager of men and resources, who is immune to the distractions of public office. He should be capable of transforming the state’s economy, create opportunities for growth, and ensure sustainable development.
Political history offers valuable lessons on the importance of carefully selecting a successor. From Peter Obi’s failed attempt to install a successor in Anambra to Bola Tinubu’s calculated choice of Babatunde Fashola in Lagos, the consequences of this decision can either solidify or unravel a leader’s legacy. Uzodimma must tread carefully, balancing loyalty, competence, and public expectation.
The stakes for him are enormous. Opting for a loyalist might secure his immediate political interests but could jeopardize the state’s future if the chosen successor lacks the capacity to govern effectively. Conversely, prioritizing competence over loyalty could safeguard his legacy but diminish his influence after leaving office.
Will he groom a protégé, honour the Imo Charter of Equity, or prioritize competence over political expediency? The choice he makes will define his legacy.
Ultimately, his decision should not just be about who becomes the next governor; it is about his vision for Imo State and the kind of legacy he intends to leave behind. He has all the time to tinker, pause and ponder and take a firm decision. The ball is in his court.
The stakes for Uzodimma are enormous. Opting for a loyalist might secure his immediate political interests but could jeopardize the state’s future if the chosen successor lacks the capacity to govern effectively. Conversely, prioritizing competence over loyalty could safeguard his legacy but diminish his influence after leaving office
