Across various states and at the national level, political activities ahead of 2027 have gradually begun. In states where governors are completing their final tenures, the political atmosphere is becoming increasingly charged.
By 2027, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State will have completed two terms, spanning eight years.
This report speculates on notable individuals who could emerge as his potential successors.
Mac Donald Ebere: The Golden Fish
As a trusted ally of Governor Uzodimma, Mac Donald Ebere, the Imo APC Chairman is speculated to be considered a favorite if the governor decides to handpick a successor.
Ebere’s loyalty and proximity to power makes him a formidable contender, especially in a system where outgoing governors favour long time political allies and associates as sucessors.
Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi: The Political Hopper
Senator Onyewuchi’s political trajectory can be described as an act of “political wizardry or magic.”
By 2027, he will have spent 16 years in the National Assembly, serving eight years each in the House of Representatives and the Senate.
While his legislative experience is unparalleled, critics point to his frequent party switches—he has been affiliated with over four parties—which some say cast doubts on his political consistency.
Eze Madumere: The Unfazed Contender
A former Chief of Staff and Deputy Governor, Madumere brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Although his previous attempts to run for governor led to clashes with his one time boss, former Governor Rochas Okorocha, Madumere remains optimistic about his chances in 2027.
However, his chances may be slim as those in Governor Uzodimma’s camp reportedly view him as an outsider, which could diminish his prospects.
Senator Samuel Anyanwu: The Determined Warhorse
Senator Anyanwu is expected to make a second attempt at the Imo governorship in 2027 after his unsuccessful bid in 2023.
His resilience in defending his position as PDP National Secretary may have strengthened his resolve for another gubernatorial race.
However, Anyanwu faces the daunting task of revitalizing a PDP in Imo weakened by the defections of key stakeholders and members.
Athan Achonu: The Resolute
Athan Achonu, the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate, put up an impressive performance in the last election.
While his experience from the previous contest positions him well for a potential come back, his lack of clear political direction since 2023 raises questions about his next moves.
Jude Ejiogu: The Administrative Octopus
An ex-banker and seasoned administrator, Jude Ejiogu has been rumoured to be among those who may contest for Imo governorship in 2027
Aside the widespread speculations, there is no concrete sign of his plans to join the race except perhaps he is bidding his time before he plunges into the contest.
Chima Amadi: The Table Shaker
Chima Amadi has shown determination to succeed Uzodimma, mobilizing grassroots and elites support through his TMO platform.
Despite resistance and media attacks from the Uzodimma camp, Amadi has remained resolute, positioning himself as a serious contender irrespective of the fact he has no.political platform at the moment.
However, as a first-timer in Imo’s political terrain, many question his political antecedents, and ability to sustain the momentum, twin factors which could challenge his ability to secure broader support.
Emeka Ihedioha: The Comeback Kid
Former Governor, Emeka Ihedioha is another strong governorship candidate from Owerri zone.
His controversial removal from office by the Supreme Court left many believing he has unfinished business at Douglas House, fueling speculations about a potential comeback bid in 2027
However, he has suffered little political setbacks, including the exit of several allies and associates from his camp since his ouster from office.
His political structure faces potential collapse unless he aligns quickly with a political party, as he has been without one since 2023.
Charles Orie: A Candle in the Wind
Despite coming from Orlu zone, a zone which is widely believed should not produce another Governor after Uzodimma’s tenure, Charles Orie remains resolute in his intention to contest.
His defiance of the odds makes him a fascinating, albeit uncertain contender, having claimed that he enjoys the support of Imolites in Diaspora.
Alex Mbata: *The Benevolent*
Alex Mbata, a philanthropist and business mogul, made his political debut in 2023 when he contested for Owerri zone Senate seat.
Known for his numerous and impressive acts of philanthropy, Mbata”s political direction may be headed for the guber contest, especially in the wave of strong sentiment for an Imo governor of Owerri zone extraction in 2027.
He is adjudged as someone with no political baggage(s).
Ikedi Ohakim: The Early Trailblazer
Former Governor, Ikedi Ohakim seems to harbour unfinished business at Douglas House, having not secured a second term after he lost re- election in 2011.
Lately, Ohakim has maintained a persistent media visibility, perhaps signaling his intent to make a come back bid for the governorship in 2027.
The intensity of his aspiration is gathering support and momentum in the face of a strong push by Owerri zone to produce Uzodimma’s successor.
Jerry Chukwueke*: The Serial Contender
Jerry Chukwueke has long been a familiar face in Imo’s political scene, having previously vied for both the Senate and the governorship.
An entrepreneur, his close confidants say he will likely take another shot at the governorship in 2027.
With Owerri zone putting up a firm stance that it is its turn to produce the next governor, Chukwueke may just be in the queue of several Owerri zone aspirants who are eying Douglas House in 2027.
Mike Ejiogu : The Political New Comer
Mike Ejiogu, widely recognized for his success as a real estate mogul and his esteemed role as the Traditional Prime Minister of Anara, appears poised to venture into the intricate web of Imo politics.
Speculations are rife that the business magnate, though a political new-comer is considering a bid for the Imo State governorship in 2027.
His aspiration would add vibe to the intense and renewed quest by Okigwe zone to challenge Owerri zone for the governorship
