The political landscape of Imo State may possibly lead to renewed tremors as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerge as a potential third force ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
Recently adopted by a powerful alliance of opposition figures at the national level, the ADC is now being positioned as the new political vehicle for some of Nigeria’s most prominent politicians.
The coalition, unveiled at a high-profile meeting in Abuja, includes former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, ex-Anambra Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Senate President, David Mark, and ex-Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi.
From Imo State, the political re-entry of former governor Emeka Ihedioha—who graced the unveiling event—has ignited speculation.
Ihedioha, controversially removed from office in 2020 by the Supreme Court, is now widely believed to be plotting a comeback under the ADC platform.
His exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, citing “irreconcilable political differences,” appears to have paved the way for this political switch. His formidable Rebuild Imo structure is expected to follow suit, thus may position the ADC with grassroots traction across the state.
Observers believe that if Ihedioha officially declares under the ADC, it could change the dynamics of the 2027 Imo guber race.
Names like former Governor, Achike Udenwa and ex-Minister of State for Education, Emeka Nwajiuba have also been mentioned as possible defectors to the ADC.
“If these heavyweights consolidate under one party, it may no longer be the usual APC-PDP- Labour Party duel in 2027 in Imo.
” “We may witness the first truly competitive four-horse race in decades.”noted a political analyst, Uche Nnodim
There are whispers that Hon Uche Onyeagocha, a staunch Ihedioha ally, and other prominent players from both APC and PDP in the State who feel politically orphaned, may find a new home in the ADC in Imo State.
“This party may likely become a magnet for progressives and displaced politicians in Imo” a source familiar with the coalition said.
However, not everyone is buying the narrative of fresh hope. Critics argue that the ADC, despite its new branding, is little more than a familiar script.
“At the national level, the party is a coalition of expired politicians. In Imo, they are not new faces either,”
“Ihedioha and his associates have been deeply entrenched in the state’s political history.
“They are old wines repackaged in a new bottle.” said Fabian Uche, a noted political commentator who spoke to INNONEWS in Owerri..
In the words of another critic who spoke to this newspaper on condition of anonymity “The ADC is simply a chip off the old block. Don’t let the name deceive you—these are seasoned actors in different costumes.”
Nonetheless, with its growing momentum and widening appeal, the ADC’s entrance into Imo’s political arena is sure to stir the waters ahead of 2027.
Whether it turns out to be a recycled force or a true alternative remains to be seen—but what’s certain is that the political chessboard in Imo has just gained a new player.
