The political temperature in Imo State is already rising as major actors eyeing the governorship, National Assembly, and state legislative seats in 2027 have begun subtle preparations ahead of the polls.
From engaging media consultants to polish their image, to setting up political structures and embarking on philanthropic gestures, aspirants across party lines appear determined to position themselves early in the race.
This newspaper gathered that some politicians have intensified outreach programmes, organising community projects and humanitarian activities designed to curry favour with grassroots voters.
“They know that visibility now can translate to political capital later,” one political observer in the State noted.
The trend is not restricted to governorship hopefuls. Aspirants for senatorial seats, the House of Representatives, and the Imo State House of Assembly are also quietly mobilising supporters, with several already in talks with interest groups and youth leaders.
Observers say the surge of political activities is a clear signal that 2027 will be a fiercely contested election cycle, with rival camps already laying the groundwork for future battles.
Already, some political actors have begun using media platforms and online influencers to project themselves. Others have rolled out modest empowerment schemes, ranging from market women support funds to youth skills training, which many believe are thinly veiled campaign strategies.
Critics argue that while philanthropy and community support are welcome, the timing and scale of these activities indicate they are more about politics than genuine concern for the people.
“You don’t suddenly discover humanitarian instincts two years to an election unless there’s an office in view,” one civil society leader , Ekene Obijuru told INNONEWS.
Political analysts also warn that the early politicking could distract from governance, as attention shifts from addressing the state’s economic and infrastructural challenges to positioning for power.
“The fear is that governance may once again take the back seat to politics,” an Owerri-based analyst, Collins Eze said.
Alao, the political atmosphere in Imo State is being charged with renewed discourse around the Imo Charter of Equity, as the race to succeed Governor Hope Uzodimma begins to take shape.
Political stakeholders across the state have started weighing in on how the charter — which was designed to ensure fairness and balanced rotation of power among the three senatorial zones — should guide the 2027 governorship contest.
While some argue that strict adherence to the charter remains the best path to political stability, others insist that merit and competence should prevail over zoning considerations.
This has further intensified debates within political circles, with aspirants already aligning themselves with the narrative that best suits their ambition.
At the centre of it all is the looming question of who takes over from Governor Uzodimma. His eventual successor, many believe, will emerge not only from political manoeuvring but also from how effectively the Charter of Equity is interpreted and applied in the months ahead.
The issue is fast becoming a dominant talking point in Imo’s political discourse, setting the tone for what promises to be a heated contest in the build-up to 2027.
