The political landscape in Imo State’s Owerri Zone is fraught with tension and intrigue as the 2027 governorship race draws closer.
Widely seen as the zone most likely to produce the next governor after Governor Hope Uzodimma, Owerri Zone is now embroiled in heated controversy over its political future.
The storm began with the resignation of two top All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftains from Owerri Zone—Cajethan Duke, the State Publicity Secretary, and Blyden Amajirionwu, a former lawmaker. Both have thrown their weight behind the governorship project of Dr. Chima Amadi, a prominent political figure from Ngor-Okpala.
Although Amadi has yet to officially declare his candidacy, speculation is rife that he will run outside the APC. His potential ambition has already drawn fierce criticism from Olu Owerri, the apex socio-cultural organization of Owerri Zone.
In a press statement signed by its Acting Secretary-General, Dr. Gerald Ekenta, Olu Owerri accused Amadi of betraying the zone’s collective aspirations. The group alleged that his governorship bid is a ploy orchestrated by external forces to sabotage the candidacy of Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, a former governor and perceived frontrunner for 2027.
“Mazi Chima Amadi’s ambition is not driven by any genuine desire to serve the people of Imo State,”
“It is a plot to divide Owerri Zone and ensure we remain politically irrelevant. This betrayal will not be tolerated.” part of the statement read.
The group issued a stern warning to Amadi to withdraw his candidacy or face ostracization from the zone. They lamented the persistent internal divisions that have historically denied Owerri Zone the governorship seat and called for unity among political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders to safeguard the zone’s interests.
Adding to the unfolding drama, the Owerri Zonal Political Leaders Forum (OZOPOLF), led by Prince Charles Amadi, publicly distanced itself from what he described as “political noise” allegedly emanating from Ngor-Okpala, Amadi’s home local government.
At an event celebrating Governor Uzodimma’s contributions to the zone, Prince Amadi made it clear that Owerri Zone is committed to supporting the governor for the remainder of his tenure.
“We are not part of the recent political noise in the state,”
“Owerri Zone remains fully supportive of Governor Uzodimma. Those causing confusion should desist and focus on the developmental strides His Excellency has brought to the zone.” Prince Amadi declared.
The event also featured the presentation of key appointees from Owerri Zone in Governor Uzodimma’s administration, including Bar. Kingsley Ekwedashike and Chief Val Okere. Leaders from across the zone reaffirmed their loyalty to the governor and disapproval of any divisive actions.
However, some political observers have criticized the escalating tensions.
Kevin Uche, a political analyst, described the back-and-forth as unnecessary and indicative of underlying fears within the zone.
“Anyone is free to associate with any political family,”
“These warnings and threats are uncalled for and suggest a lack of confidence on the part of these groups.
Owerri Zone must rise above this political paranoia and focus on presenting a united front.” Uche said.
Uche further alleged that some groups within Owerri Zone might be secretly working for governorship aspirants from other zones, a development he warned could undermine the zone’s chances in 2027.
“Owerri Zone.mut overcome its internal divisions and seize its opportunity for the governorship, failure to do so, it will it fall victim to its own conflicts and manipulations from external forces” he concluded.
