The recent meeting of some stakeholders from Owerri Zone with Governor Hope Uzodimma was a commendable step towards addressing the political dynamics surrounding the governorship of Imo State in 2027.
It demonstrated that the governor remains aware of the pressing need to address the marginalization narrative often associated with the zone’s exclusion from the State’s top political seat.
However, insights from the meeting suggest that Owerri Zone has significant work to do if it intends to successfully secure the governorship.
Governor Uzodimma was forthright in his address, emphasizing that he has three years left in his term and remains committed to serving the people of the State unless unforeseen circumstances arise.
His statement that “unless I am poisoned, I am still governor” underlined his determination to complete his tenure. This declaration appeared to counteract any perceived intentions by Owerri Zone stakeholders, especially the Imo Harmony Project, IHP to hasten his exit from office.
One of Uzodimma’s key messages at the meeting was the call for unity and reconciliation within Owerri Zone. The governor’s remarks reflect the evident cracks among leaders and groups within the zone, which have hindered a cohesive strategy for achieving their governorship aspirations.
His emphasis on the Imo Charter of Equity being a tool for zones, not individuals, pointedly addressed concerns that some stakeholders might be pursuing personal ambitions under the guise of championing the zone’s cause.
The Imo Charter of Equity featured prominently in Uzodimma’s speech. While he reaffirmed its relevance, he acknowledged its vulnerability due to its lack of legal backing. In other words, it is a mere “doctrine of necessity.” This underscores the challenges of relying on such frameworks to ensure power rotation without institutional enforcement.
A major moment during the meeting was Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho’s question to the governor, asking if he would hand over to Owerri Zone. This query is as a political misstep, as no sitting governor is likely to respond favourably to such direct demands regarding succession. It may have prompted Uzodimma’s cautionary response about avoiding actions that could inflame the political environment in the state.
From Uzodimma’s body language and rhetoric, it is plausible to infer that he might be open to supporting an Owerri Zone candidate, but he is unlikely to be coerced into a decision. His insistence on merit and competence as critical factors in choosing a successor suggests his broader evaluation process that transcends zoning considerations.
If Uzodimma had fully resolved to hand over to Owerri Zone, he would have at the meeting explicitly articulated his support and perhaps even encouraged collaboration in identifying a competent person. His reserved stance at the meeting, however, leaves the door open for other zones within the All Progressives Congress (APC) to field candidates in the 2027 governorship race. This is the bitter truth.
Another important point is that Uzodimma, like all past governors, holds the sole right to choose his successor. It should be made clear that his choice will not be influenced by external pressure or the demands of any group, regardless of their claims under the banner of zoning.
The governor may also be working strategically to unite divided interests within Owerri Zone. This unity, once achieved, could provide him the leverage to handpick a successor—not necessarily from Owerri Zone but potentially from any of the three zones in the state—ensuring continuity and alignment with his vision for Imo State.
This implies that Owerri Zone must rethink its strategy and focus on building consensus, project unity, and present someone who embodies competence and wide acceptability. Stakeholders must shelve personal interests and stop projecting individuals prematurely, as these actions could undermine the collective goal of the zone.
The governor’s measured tone suggests he has broader considerations in mind that extend beyond the Charter of Equity. These considerations are likely to shape his eventual choice of a successor.
The absence of a definitive commitment from Uzodimma to Owerri Zone at the stakeholders meeting underscores the competitive nature of the upcoming 2027 governorship contest. It highlights the need for the zone to prepare for a rigorous and open race that will likely involve contenders from other zones within the APC.
For Owerri Zone, the road to producing a governor lies in demonstrating strategic vision and political acumen. By focusing on collective interests, addressing internal divisions, and present compelling reasons, the zone can position itself as a credible and united force in the race for Imo’s top seat in 2027.
Governor Uzodimma’s remarks serve as both a challenge and an opportunity for Owerri Zone. The zone must rise above internal discord and external skepticism to assert its place in the governorship race.
“Another important point is that Uzodimma, like all past governors, holds the sole right to choose his successor. It should be made clear that his choice will not be influenced by external pressure or the demands of any group, regardless of their claims under the banner of zoning“