Martin Agbaso, popularly known as Ochoudo, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 Imo State governorship election, nearly two decades after his controversial exit from the 2007 race, which many of his supporters insist he had won before the election was cancelled by the then Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, under the leadership of Maurice Iwu.
Mr Agbaso, a chieftain of the National Democratic Congress, NDC, announced his decision in a statement titled, “A Mandate Delayed, Not Denied: My Renewed Commitment to the Service of Ndi Imo,”
The former governorship candidate recalled the 2007 election, which he described as a movement that united Imo people across political, religious and social divides. Though he did not directly accuse any individual in his latest statement, Mr Agbaso said the events that followed the election became a period of learning, growth and preparation.
“Some have described the events of 2007 as a mandate delayed. I choose to see them as part of God’s preparation. Because while circumstances may delay a journey, they cannot stop a destiny ordained by God,” Mr Agbaso said.
The politician, who was widely considered the frontrunner in the 2007 governorship election on the platform of APGA before the exercise was cancelled by INEC, said he had decided to return to the political arena after extensive consultations, prayers and reflection.
According to him, his renewed ambition is driven by sacrifice and service rather than personal ambition. He said his years outside elective politics have provided him with deeper experience and a better understanding of the challenges confronting the state.
Mr Agbaso said Imo currently faces serious economic difficulties, youth unemployment, insecurity, poor infrastructure and declining public services, adding that disciplined leadership and clear vision would place the state on the path of recovery.
He pledged to pursue policies that would strengthen healthcare delivery, boost agricultural production, promote innovation and technology, encourage investment and create employment opportunities for young people across the state.
“Our goal will be to create enough disposable income to boost consumer confidence. Most importantly, I believe we can build a state where government is measured not by promises but by results,” Mr Agbaso stated.
He also appealed to Imo residents to support his renewed bid, saying the future of the state would require collective efforts involving youths, women, professionals, traditional institutions and religious leaders. He urged citizens to view the 2027 election as an opportunity to reposition the state and restore confidence in governance.
