*Amid Rising Insecurity*
A growing cloud of uncertainty is forcing many politicians in Imo State who are eyeing elective offices in 2027 to slip into low gear, suspending open consultations and quietly delaying early campaign structures. What should have been an active season of political mobilization has instead become a period of caution, hesitation, and strategic silence.
Across the state, aspirants for the House of Representatives, Senate, and even the governorship are reportedly keeping activities discreet as insecurity spikes across Imo and several parts of the country. The worsening climate of violence, combined with the recent withdrawal of police protection from VIPs, has compelled many political hopefuls to reassess personal safety before venturing into the public arena.
The withdrawal directive, issued by President Bola Tinubu, ordered police officers attached to VIPs to return to duty posts, advising affected politicians to apply for Civil Defence personnel instead. That policy shift, coming at a time of heightened security tension, has triggered a fresh wave of anxiety among those preparing to enter the 2027 race.
Some aspirants, who spoke under strict anonymity, admitted that security concerns remain the biggest barrier to early political movement. “It is risky to move around now,” one of them said. “The situation is unpredictable. Until things stabilize, nobody wants to expose themselves unnecessarily.”
Beyond personal security, the state’s political landscape is further complicated by the sensitive debate over the 2027 governorship rotation. Governor Hope Uzodimma is expected to complete his tenure in January 2028, setting off an intense contest between Owerri Zone and Okigwe Zone, both of which insist it is their turn to produce the next governor. Behind-the-scenes lobbying, zone-based consultations, and subtle jostling for Uzodimma’s nod have dominated political discussions — yet with no open display due to the current atmosphere.
Political observers say the mix of insecurity, the vacuum created by the withdrawal of police escorts, and the unresolved zoning tussle has created a level of political quiet rarely seen this close to an election cycle. Many aspirants are said to be focusing on private strategy sessions rather than public declaration of interest.
For now, Imo’s 2027 political landscape remains defined by caution, muted ambition, and an unusual waiting game. Until security improves and the uncertainty clears, the state’s political class appears content to watch events from a safe distance — and move only when it becomes safe to do so.
