Political activities have stepped up sharply in Imo State early in the year, signalling that the race for 2027 is already taking shape across party lines.
The renewed momentum comes barely weeks after Governor Hope Uzodimma marked six years in office, an anniversary that doubled as a political barometer for both the ruling party and the opposition.
At the anniversary event, Governor Uzodimma reviewed his administration’s record and projected confidence about the remaining period of his tenure, assuring residents that the state was now on what he described as “auto cruise.”
He maintained that his government had laid the foundation for accelerated development and would focus on consolidating gains in infrastructure, security and governance in the final stretch.
Beyond Government House, political observers say the atmosphere in the state has shifted, with succession politics now shaping conversations, alliances and public engagements.
Between December 2025 and January 2026, opposition parties intensified activities, reactivating structures, holding consultations and increasing visibility across the state.
One of the notable developments was the return of Senator Ifeanyi Araraume to active political engagement after a prolonged period of relative quiet.
Araraume publicly drummed support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and pledged to mobilise backing for the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that triggered widespread speculation about his broader political calculations.
Although he has not declared any ambition, analysts believe his renewed visibility reflects deeper strategic positioning as the succession conversation gains momentum.
Last December, the shifting landscape became more pronounced with the defection of governorship hopeful Mazi Chima Amadi to the Action Peoples Party (APP) to advance his 2027 ambition.
The APP has since been embroiled in controversy following a lawsuit filed by the Civil Action for Democracy (CAD) against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), seeking the party’s delisting.
In another development, the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) recently staged a fundraising event in Owerri, signalling renewed organisational drive and intent to play a stronger role in Imo politics.
Sources within the party disclosed that some former local government chairmen who previously served in Rochas Okorocha government are considering a return, a move that could bolster its grassroots reach.
Agitations over Governor Uzodimma’s successor have also intensified, with stakeholders and leaders from Owerri and Okigwe zones stepping up campaigns to press their claims.
Leaders from Okigwe zone, in early January, made a strong case for an Imo governor of Okigwe extraction, arguing that the zone should produce the next governor in 2027.
On their part, some Owerri leaders, operating under the auspices of the Owerri Leaders of Thought, have continued tours of local government areas within Owerri zone, drumming support for the emergence of an Imo governor from the zone in the next election cycle.
Meanwhile, the ruling APC has embarked on a statewide e-registration exercise, with stakeholders and stalwarts mobilising members to participate.
Party insiders say the exercise is aimed at strengthening internal structures, updating membership records and consolidating the party’s dominance ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Analysts predict that political activity will intensify further as the year progresses, with alignments, agitations and positioning expected to dominate the public space.
They also caution that this period calls for discipline in governance, stressing that the administration must avoid distractions and remain focused on service delivery as the final lap of its tenure draws nearer.
