₦airaland Forum

The Rotimi Amaechi camp of African Democratic Congress in Imo has rejected the presidential primary election that announced Atiku Abubakar win, describing the primary as sham.

Speaking to newsmen in Owerri on Tuesday, the Orlu Zonal Coordinator of the Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi Imo State Campaign Structure, and the Convener of the Movement for Amaechi's Presidency, Chigozie Ifeanyichukwu Alex said the Amaechi camp rejected the African Democratic Congress presidential primary election in Imo.

He said, "No elections were held in the majority of wards across the state. Registered ADC members who came out to vote were turned away because there were no officials, no materials, and no polling units. Where any activity took place, our accredited agents were not given the locations. They were kept in the dark while a secret process was conducted without their presence".

"The returning officers for this so-called primary were the party's LGA chairmen and House of Assembly aspirants — the same individuals who have been compromised by agents of a rival candidate. This is a fundamental violation of electoral integrity".

"What we witnessed was not a direct primary. It was a secret selection. The party, in connivance with agents of Atiku Abubakar, moved to hidden locations and conducted the entire process without our agents, without our members, and without any regard for the ADC constitution or the Electoral Act".

"We call on the national leadership of the ADC to cancel the sham primary conducted in Imo State, conduct a fresh, transparent, and inclusive direct primary across all wards and ensure that our accredited agents are given full access to every polling location. Anything short of this is an assault on democracy and the will of our members".

This is following the announcement of Atiku Abubakar as the winner of the primaries in Imo.

BY: JOHN - PAUL NWACHUKWU

The recent call by a group urging Governor Hope Uzodimma to investigate the alleged killings in parts of Imo State raises one painful question: should Ndi Imo still expect urgency from a government that appears more interested in party politics than governance itself?

According to reports, the group appealed to the governor to set up a judicial panel to investigate the alleged invasion and killings in Eziobodo and surrounding communities. But beyond the call for investigation lies a more disturbing reality — the silence from Hope Uzodimma.

At a time when families are mourning, residents are living in fear, and insecurity continues to spread across communities, the people expected leadership, empathy, and, at the very least, a public statement from the governor. Instead, what the public keeps seeing are political speeches, APC meetings, endorsements, consultations, and discussions centred around party primary elections.

This is the tragedy of governance in Imo today.

Every recent public appearance by Governor Uzodimma seems tied to political calculations within the APC, while the pressing issues confronting ordinary citizens continue to receive little or no visible attention. Roads remain unsafe, communities continue to cry out over insecurity, yet Hope Uzodimma’s energy appears concentrated on political succession battles and party supremacy.

That is why many people now see the call for the governor to “investigate” these killings as little more than a ceremonial appeal. Investigation requires urgency, concern, and willingness to act. But how can citizens expect decisive action from a leadership that has not even shown enough concern to publicly address the incident?

Even opposition voices and civil society groups have repeatedly criticised the silence of Hope Uzodimma on security matters. Reports noted that critics condemned the failure of his government to make any meaningful public response after previous violent incidents in the state.

The painful reality is that insecurity in Imo State is gradually becoming normalised under an atmosphere of political distraction. Rather than constantly reassuring citizens and confronting the worsening security situation head-on, the political class seems permanently trapped in election mode.

Leadership is not only tested during campaigns. It is tested during moments of fear, crisis, and uncertainty. It is tested when citizens are looking for comfort, direction, and protection.

Hope Uzodimma’s silence over alleged killings sends the wrong message to grieving families and frightened communities. It creates the impression that the lives of ordinary people rank far below political interests and internal APC arrangements.

And that is the real danger confronting Imo State — a government increasingly consumed by politics while governance slowly fades into the background.

Brit Holdings Nigeria Limited has marked its 16th anniversary with a week-long corporate social responsibility programme, featuring a marathon race, talent hunt and free medical outreach for residents.

The anniversary activities were part of efforts to appreciate communities that have supported the company’s business growth over the years.


Speaking at the closing ceremony on Friday, Adejoro Sabbath, Deputy Regional Manager of Brit Properties Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of Brit Holdings Nigeria Limited said the programme began on April 4 and ended on May 2, 2026 with several community-based events.

“We thank God for the success of our 16th anniversary programme. The event commenced from the 4th of April, and today we are rounding up with marathon events, talent hunt and CSR outreach,” Mr Adejoro said.

He explained that one of the major highlights of the outreach was held for two days at Gbara Community Senior Secondary School, where residents received free medical services.

According to him, doctors, dentists and other health professionals were available to provide health checks, consultations and other basic medical support for members of the community.


“We have been here since the 30th of April, and today, being the 2nd of May, is the last day,” he added.

He noted that the company had earlier carried out similar CSR programmes in Abuja, Owerri and Uyo before bringing the initiative to Lagos State, adding that Brit Holdings Nigeria Limited remains committed to touching lives through community-focused programmes.


He also disclosed that the marathon race was organised to encourage sports development and healthy living, with participants competing for attractive prizes.

The marathon, he said, started from Gbara Under Bridge and ended at Brit Fruit Vine Estate, Monastery Road, Sangotedo, Lagos State.

“For the marathon event, the winner is going to go home with one thousand dollars. Others will receive five hundred dollars and similar prizes. We also have prizes for the talent hunt, where people will showcase their talents and special skills. This is to uncover talents and also give back to society” he said.

In a significant political development, Senator Athan Achonu has officially announced his defection from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Grand Alliance, citing the party’s progressive ideals and its capacity to advance the collective interests of the Southeast and Nigeria at large. Achonu, who represented Imo East in the 8th National Assembly, was also the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the 2023 election.


Addressing the media during a press conference in Abuja, Achonu revealed that the decision followed extensive consultations with constituents, political allies, and stakeholders across the country. He emphasized that his move was driven by conviction rather than convenience, describing APGA as a platform with “the potential to deliver inclusive growth, equity, and justice.”

The former Labour Party stalwart used the occasion to call for reconciliation within the Southeast political space. He specifically appealed to governors, lawmakers, and political actors particularly those aggrieved during the 2019 APGA gubernatorial primaries to set aside differences and unite for a common purpose.

“Nation building requires unity of purpose. We must come together under platforms that prioritize development, equity, and justice,” he stated.

Achonu further pledged to work closely with APGA leadership at all levels to strengthen the party’s structure and grassroots engagement, noting that his experience would be deployed toward building a more people-oriented and results-driven political system.

On regional development, Achonu threw his full weight behind the proposed creation of Anioma State, describing it as a matter of inclusion and fairness rather than sectional interest.

“On the issue of the proposed creation of Anioma State, I wish to clearly state my full support. This is not about sectional interest. It is about inclusion, fairness, and bringing our brothers and sisters in the South-South closer into a shared vision of progress,” he declared.

He also called on key stakeholders, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other traditional institutions, to lend their voice to the realization of the long-standing aspiration.

In a broader national reflection, Achonu drew attention to the role of state governors in the current economic climate and the urgent need for accountability.

“Mr President, I wish to respectfully draw your attention to the role of state governors in the current economic climate. With increased allocations following the removal of fuel subsidy, Nigerians expect to see tangible improvements in infrastructure, living standards, and social services. There must be accountability. Resources must be used for the benefit of the people,” he said.

He also emphasized the need for local government autonomy.

“Local government autonomy is a matter that requires urgent attention. Local governments must not remain appendages of state governors. They must be empowered to function independently, with resources allocated directly to them and used for grassroots development. When local governments are truly autonomous, they can play a critical role in reducing insecurity, as they are closest to the people and understand local challenges better. I also call for improved leadership within the Progressive Governors Forum so that governance at the state level reflects the true expectations of the people.”

On concerns regarding federal governance dynamics, he added:

“There are concerns that the leadership of the Progressive Governors Forum may be exerting undue influence on key ministers within your administration, affecting their effectiveness. This is an issue that deserves urgent review. Governance must be allowed to function without unnecessary interference.”

He noted that such measures would strengthen public trust and broaden national support across states.

In a notable appeal for peace and reconciliation, Achonu urged the Federal Government to consider granting pardon to Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

“Peace is essential for development. Granting pardon in this case is a step that can unite rather than divide,” he said

Achonu’s defection is expected to reshape political alignments in the Southeast, with analysts viewing it as a potential boost for APGA’s regional influence ahead of future elections.

His remarks- spanning unity, structural reform, and inclusive development signal a broader political repositioning that could influence conversations across the national landscape.

BY CHUKS NWOKEJI

The people of Imo State are calling on the Acting Chief Judge, Justice Ijeoma Agugua, to sign her ruling on the exhumation of Chief Ifeanyichukwu Amuchienwa's body, which has been delayed for two weeks.

Recall that two weeks ago, the Acting Chief Judge ruled that the exhumation of Ifeanyichukwu Donatus Amuchienwa, carried out by the alleged separated wife of the deceased, was null and void. However, she has failed to sign the ruling two weeks after delivering it.

Media findings revealed that the delay has sparked widespread outrage and concern, with many questioning the motive behind it, especially given the deceased's alleged rejection of his former wife, Chinyere Igwegbe, during his lifetime.

Recall that the Imo State Acting Chief Judge’s ruling invalidated the exhumation carried out by the 32-year separated wife of the deceased, Chinyere Igwegbe, but she is yet to sign the ruling—an action that has raised concerns about the impartiality of the judiciary and the rule of law.

Journalists, analysts, and stakeholders are calling on the Imo State Acting Chief Judge, Justice Ijeoma Agugua, to sign her ruling on the Ifeanyichukwu Amuchienwa case, which has sparked controversy and outrage in the state.

From public perception, the delay in signing the ruling has raised concerns about the impartiality of the judiciary and the rule of law, with many questioning the motive behind the Acting Chief Judge's actions, especially given the deceased's rejection of the alleged separated wife during his lifetime.

The majority of Imolites have questioned the delay in signing the ruling and asked if Justice Agugua truly understands the negative effects of failing to sign the ruling on her image and hard-earned reputation. The delay has sparked anger and agitation among Imo residents, who are demanding transparency and accountability from the judiciary.

Concerned Imolites have also urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate the handling of the matter, citing alleged abuse of power in the exhumation order. The call for investigation highlights the outcry for fairness, judicial professionalism, and greater transparency in the judiciary.

The Acting Chief Judge's failure to sign the ruling has also raised questions about enforcing the ruling.

On the other side, a media practitioner, Comrade Kelechi Osuoha, who has been following the matter, asked whether the order would have remained unsigned if it had favoured the separated wife of over 32 years.

A legal practitioner, who does not want his name mentioned, was of the view that the ruling deserves expedited attention, stating that there is an obvious need to conclude the matter so that the deceased can rest in peace and his family can move on with their lives.

In the words of High Chief Ken Njoku: “We know the Acting Chief Judge has been very busy with many official duties calling for attention, but delaying the signing of her ruling for about two weeks is questionable. At the same time, she can create time, as she does for other duties, to review the contents of the ruling to ensure it reflects her pronouncements before signing it.”

According to Hon. Chinedu Okoro (Esq), if a judge fails to sign a court ruling, it can lead to several legal implications, including delay in justice, lack of appealability, and possible administrative sanctions.

In the view of Emeka Obi, there is a need for the Acting Chief Judge to sign her ruling, noting that an unsigned ruling may not be enforceable by the parties, leading to further litigation.

Adding her voice, Mrs. Chioma Emenike explained that in Nigeria, the Constitution and the Judiciary Act provide for the administration of justice and the powers of judges, noting that failure to sign a ruling may be considered a breach of constitutional duty.

Eminent Imo sons and daughters who preferred anonymity have urged Governor Hope Uzodimma to intervene in the matter and ensure that justice is served. They also expressed the view that the government has a responsibility to protect the rights of its citizens and uphold the rule of law.

From all indications, the delay in signing the ruling has raised concerns about its impact on the administration of justice in the state. The situation highlights the need for the judiciary to remain transparent and accountable in its decision-making processes.

The actions and inactions of the Acting Chief Judge have also sparked concerns about the independence of the judiciary, with observers and stakeholders questioning whether external influences are at play and if justice will ultimately be served.

It has also highlighted the importance of a free and independent press in holding those in power accountable.

As it stands, journalists are playing a crucial role in shedding light on the controversy and demanding transparency from the judiciary.

In conclusion, the controversy surrounding the exhumation of Ifeanyichukwu Donatus Amuchienwa highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the judiciary. Many Imo residents insist that the Acting Chief Judge must sign the ruling to ensure that justice is served.

The South East Zonal Youth Leader of All Progressive Congress, (APC) Barr Chimamkpam Ogbonnaya, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, on the occasion of his 74th birthday, saying his commitment to building a more prosperous future for Nigerian youths is commendable.

In a stirring tribute to the President,Ogbonnaya hailed him for his Youth friendly initiatives which reflect his deep understanding of the aspirations and challenges of the younger generation.

He wrote:
On behalf of the teeming, energetic, and progressive youths of the South East, I warmly congratulate you on the occasion of your 74th birthday.

This remarkable milestone is not only a celebration of your life, but also of your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria. Your administration has continued to inspire confidence among young people through deliberate and impactful youth-focused policies.

We are particularly grateful for several youth-friendly initiatives under your leadership, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which is expanding access to education; the provision of SME loans and financial support schemes that are empowering young entrepreneurs and small businesses; as well as other economic and empowerment programmes designed to stimulate innovation, job creation, and self-reliance among Nigerian youths. These policies reflect your deep understanding of the aspirations and challenges of the younger generation.

As the APC Zonal Youth Leader for the South East, I proudly affirm that the youths of our region stand firmly in support of your leadership and your Renewed Hope Agenda. We remain committed to working collaboratively with your administration to foster unity, economic growth, and national development.

On this special day, I pray that Almighty God grants you greater wisdom, strength, and good health to continue steering the affairs of our nation toward peace, stability, and prosperity.

Happy 74th Birthday, Your Excellency.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Yours sincerely,
Barr Chimamkpam Kenneth Ogbonnaya
APC Zonal Youth Leader, South East

*Accuses Iwuanyanwu, Ibejiakor, Chukwuonye of systemic invasion of their ancestral land

*Asks governor to watch his back, alleging that some government officials use his name to grab people's land


The people of Umuoyima community in the Owerri Municipal Council of Imo State have issued a firm and direct warning to alleged land grabbers, speculators, and self-styled estate developers attempting to forcefully take over their ancestral land known as Ugwumiri Okpo Umuoyima.

The aggrieved people of Umuoyima community, who made their feelings known while speaking to newsmen in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, recently accused Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, Deputy Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly; Hon. Ernest Ibejiakor, Honourable Commissioner for Tourism; and Chief Chinedu Chukwuonye of attempting to unlawfully take over their ancestral land.

Speaking on behalf of the people of Umuoyima community, Elder Ucheoma Charles, Secretary of the Umuoyima Elders Council, expressed concern over the alleged invasion of their land by persons suspected to be government functionaries. He appealed to the governor of the state, Senator Hope Uzodimma, to quickly intervene in the matter by calling the aforementioned officials to order. According to him, some of the governor’s aides are using his name to grab people's land, a development he said would tarnish his hard-earned reputation if not properly checked.

He stated that the governor does not believe in grabbing people's property or land, adding that those perpetrating the act do not mean well for the governor and the entire people of the state.

He alleged that the government officials had been eyeing the community land and connived to wrestle it from them for selfish reasons.

Furthermore, he expressed shock that the community went to court through Barr. Louis Alozie (SAN) against the alleged land grabbers, and for four months, none of them filed a defence. Based on this, their lawyer, according to him, advised them to remain in possession of their land. However, Hon. Ernest Ibejiakor, Chinasa Nwaneri, and Amara Iwuanyanwu allegedly began destroying their property and harassing them with police from Tiger Base.

It could be recalled that in early 2025, the Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu, allegedly attempted to take over the land in question. During the process, he claimed that the land was given to him by the governor and presented a Certificate of Occupancy (CoO) which was described by many as fake. He was said to have withdrawn when it became clear that the community had a genuine case.

Elder Ucheoma Charles, while speaking to newsmen then, said, “This land we are talking about is a traditional land owned by us. The land, called Ugwumiri Okpo, is owned by some families in Umuoyima autonomous community, including my family, the Ucheoma family. This land was acquired by the government in 1978 under the Land Use Act, and a layout known as Umuoyima South Pocket Layout was created. This is a private layout belonging to the community. Part of it was designated as Open Space (OS).

“As our population grew, we became congested and approached the Ministry of Lands to vary part of the riverine open space for residential use. The Ministry approved the variation of part of the riverine Open Space (OS2) for us. The approval was granted by Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu during his first tenure as Commissioner for Lands in 2022. All documents are available, and due process was followed. We paid all required fees and statutory charges.”

Narrating their encounter with Amara Iwuanyanwu and Chinasa Nwaneri, he said, “On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, they came to the site while the OCDA was removing a gate blocking the road. Instead of allowing the process, Amara claimed ownership of the land. We questioned the basis of his claim, noting that the land had already been legally allocated to us.

“He insisted he had a CoO for the land, referencing Akachi Residential Layout Annex, which is entirely different from Ugwumiri Okpo Umuoyima. His CoO indicates Owerri North, whereas our land is in Owerri Municipal. The documents do not correspond in any way.”

“For the record, the CoO he presented refers to a government layout, while ours is a private layout. The plot details do not match, as our land spans plots 118 to 141. There is no connection whatsoever. This amounts to intimidation and harassment aimed at dispossessing us of our land.

“When we approached the Ministry of Lands for verification, officials stated they were unaware of the CoO and reaffirmed that the land had been duly allocated to us.”

He added that the community had to spend over twenty million naira to relocate a high-tension power line passing through the land, describing it as a significant financial burden.

However, the situation reportedly took a new turn when Chief Chinedu Chukwuonye commenced a project described as a “Premium Waterfront Destination” in partnership with the Imo State government.

The community said it initially supported the development but later raised concerns about encroachment on their land. They wrote several letters and staged protests, urging the Ministry of Lands and the state government to intervene.

In a protest letter dated November 17, 2025, addressed to the Commissioner for Lands, Barr. Enyinnaya Onuegbu, the community alleged unlawful encroachment and intimidation by CUDOC Construction Company Ltd and its associates.

They appealed for urgent intervention, stating that the activities of the developers had caused hardship and distress among residents.

The community also called on the governor and relevant authorities to verify the authenticity of the CoO being referenced and clarify the extent of any land allocation.

They urged the governor to take decisive action, warning that the activities of some appointees could damage public trust in his administration.

The community further alleged that some members and property buyers had recently received threatening phone calls warning them to vacate the land or face dire consequences.

They called on security agencies to take note of the situation and ensure their safety.

Efforts to reach the accused persons for comments were unsuccessful, as they did not respond to calls as of the time of filing this report.

*How Gov Uzodimma, Seyi Tinubu Intervened

An alleged political controversy has erupted in Imo State following what insiders describe as a failed attempt to remove Prince Francis Uzor as the State Coordinator of City Boy Movement (CBM). The failure, they said, was due to the intervention of the Governor, Seyi Tinubu, and Cubana Chief Priest.

Sources within the Movement said the alleged move was orchestrated by Hon. Eric Uwakwe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Affairs.

They claimed that Uwakwe sought to replace Prince Francis Uzor by presenting himself to the National Leadership of City Boy Movement as the duly endorsed choice of the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma.

The group further alleged that the plan involved invoking the Governor’s name as having directed the leadership change and observed that it was a strategic effort to lend credibility to the claim, and that the Governor’s daughter was reportedly persuaded to accompany Uwakwe to the National Office of CBM.

This, the sources said, created the impression that the change had the full backing of the state government.

Acting on what they believed to be an authentic directive from the Governor, the National Leadership of City Boy Movement allegedly issued an appointment letter recognizing Uwakwe as the new Imo State Coordinator.

The development reportedly caused confusion among members in the state chapter, with parallel claims of leadership briefly emerging.

However, the situation took a dramatic turn following the intervention of Barr. Seyi Tinubu and Pascal Chibuike Okechukwu (Cubana Chief Priest).

The sources hinted that both individuals reached out directly to Governor Hope Uzodimma to verify whether he had indeed authorized the change in leadership.

Upon clarification from the Governor that no such directive was issued, the National Leadership of the Movement reportedly reviewed the circumstances surrounding the appointment, as it discovered that the purported authorization from the Governor was not genuine.

Hence, the alleged appointment letter earlier issued to Uwakwe was withdrawn, with a formal letter of withdrawal being served on him with immediate effect — nullifying his recognition as State Coordinator and restoring Prince Francis Uzor to his position.

Political observers in the state described the episode as an embarrassment, regretting that the use of the Governor’s name without verified authorization raises serious concerns about internal communication, due process, and political integrity.

They warned that such an incident, if not properly addressed, could erode trust within political movements and create unnecessary tension within the ruling structure.

Neither Uwakwe nor the Imo State Government has issued any official public statement detailing their positions on the matter. The CBM National Leadership is also yet to release a formal communiqué beyond the reported withdrawal of the appointment.

The incident has sparked conversations across political circles in Imo State, with stakeholders calling for transparency and clearer procedural safeguards to prevent similar occurrences.

By Chidi Elemuo

In Imo State politics, fear rarely announces itself openly. It does not issue press statements. Instead, it reveals itself through calculated distractions, orchestrated media attacks and blackmail, shadowy threats, proxy litigations, vandalism, and relentless attempts to discredit emerging alternatives before they mature into serious electoral forces.

For many political observers across the state today, these familiar signs point unmistakably to Dr. Chima Matthew Amadi, erudite scholar, development advocate, business magnet, humanitarian and founder of The Mazi Organization (TMO), and leading governorship hopeful on the platform of the Action Peoples Party (APP).

Contrary to the dismissive posture adopted in some quarters of Governor Hope Uzodinma's ruling establishment, the growing tension surrounding Dr. Chima Amadi’s political rise betrays deep anxiety.

Until recently, Dr. Amadi’s political build-up was met with guarded silence. That silence has now given way to an open mass movement and its attendant hostility.

In the last several months, there have been persistent and coordinated media attacks against Dr. Chima Amadi, within the Imo media space online and national platforms. These attacks, fronted by senior political appointees of the Hope Uzodinma administration, well-known political surrogates and often times anonymous, follow a predictable pattern - distortion of facts, threats, blackmail, malicious propaganda, questioning of motives, in a deliberate attempt to pitch Dr. Amadi against the Church, Igbo cultural values, traditional institutions and the larger Imo electorate.

The intention is clear, demonize him early, confuse the undecided, and poison the political well before 2027.

Political insiders agree that these attacks intensified when information filtered that he has secured the acceptance of the core Imo intelligentsia. These attacks were fired up immediately after the unveiling of the Action Peoples Party (APP) in Imo State as his platform to vie for the governorship election and the revelation that about 172,000 Imolites registered in the first phase alone. At that point, Dr. Amadi ceased to be dismissed as “one of many aspirants” and emerged as a clear and present danger to the ruling order.

More troubling, however, are credible reports of threats and intimidation, allegedly aimed at restricting Amadi’s political expansion and constraining his movement. In addition, APP billboards planted across the state have been vandalized and destroyed, allegedly by agents linked to the state government, an unmistakable sign that the battle has moved from rhetoric to physical suppression.

While Dr. Amadi has remained measured and disciplined, those close to him insist these actions are neither random nor coincidental, but part of a deliberate strategy to slow him down or break his momentum early.

This fear, ostensibly, is fueled by the fact that Governor Hope Uzodinma is widely believed to possess intelligence on Dr. Amadi’s capacity, insider reach, and political depth. Known himself as a master of political maneuvering and institutional leverage, Uzodinma reportedly understands that Amadi is no amateur and no outsider.

Indeed, Amadi’s insider capacity is said to be well known to the Governor. Their paths crossed at a critical moment in the past, and by accounts from those familiar with that encounter, Uzodinma reportedly could not hide his shock at what he saw and what he learned. That story, will be told in fuller detail in due course.

Within political circles, it is widely whispered that Dr. Amadi is far more connected than publicly assumed. He is linked to professional, institutional, electoral, and reform-oriented networks across critical corridors in Nigeria. This reality is believed to have informed Uzodinma’s alleged resolve to politically neutralize him, including accusations of sponsoring orchestrated litigations, intimidation, and internal sabotage aimed at weakening the APP, destabilizing its leadership, and making the party unattractive to potential allies.

One of the most consequential, yet least understood chapters of Dr. Amadi’s political journey played out before the 2023 governorship election.
Few Imolites are in the know that Dr. Amadi was among the very few who passionately persuaded former Governor Emeka Ihedioha not to withdraw from the race prior to the primaries. At the time, Amadi had already invested heavily in building a relationship with Ihedioha based on shared convictions around governance, institutional reform, and restoring Imo’s dignity, even when he had his reservations.

When Ihedioha eventually stepped aside, that decision reportedly cut deeply because it collapsed a carefully constructed political vision. That withdrawal, you would agree with me, created a near no-contest electoral environment, inadvertently clearing the path for Hope Uzodinma’s reelection. Clearly Dr. Amadi had his plans cut out but the rest is history. Though that political vacuum merely postponed the challenge to what we are witnessing.

It is important to note that Dr. Amadi’s political strength rests on structure, people, and competence.

Beyond the grassroots network of The Mazi Organization (TMO), it is public knowledge that Dr. Amadi is reportedly aligned, robustly by a new generation of seasoned political heavyweights and field-tested mobilizers. Figures such as Rt. Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo (OZB), former Deputy Speaker,Imo State House of Assembly and ex Federal Representative, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, Representing Ideato Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Uche Ogbuagu, former Majority Leader, IMO State House of Assembly, Labour Party candidate and presumed winner of the 2023 Mbaitoli/Ikeduru Federal Constituency seat, Hon. Matthew Nwogu, representing Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency, Chief Henry Onwukwe, (Apiti) DG, TMO, former Solad, Owerri West LGA, an experienced Political chief, Hon. Ken Agbim, former Minority Leader, IMO State House of Assembly and Rt. Hon. Lawman Duruji, former Speaker, Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Chief Dennis Okwu (Sweet Apple) among other experienced operators.

They are widely regarded as among his men who understand mass mobilization, ward-level politics, and the brutal mechanics of winning elections in Imo State.

Unlike seasonal aspirants who surface only when elections approach, Dr. Amadi has built lasting credibility through nearly a decade of consistent humanitarian and structured empowerment programs across Imo State.

Through The Mazi Organization (TMO) and Jude and Julianna Foundation, he has championed ;
Practical youth empowerment through skills acquisition, mentorship and startup support; Women-focused economic initiatives, strengthening traders, cooperatives, and small businesses; Educational interventions, including scholarships and institutional support;
Community-based healthcare and social welfare assistance.

These are sustained interventions that have earned trust and loyalty at the grassroots. For many beneficiaries, Dr. Chima Amadi represents a rare leader who impacts lives long before asking for votes, a dangerous anomaly in a system built on transactional politics.

Another source of unease for the Uzodinma camp is Amadi’s growing acceptance among believers, youths and Imo women. The Clergy increasingly speak, directly and indirectly about competence, moral clarity and servant leadership. These values align closely with Dr. Amadi’s public posture. Imo women, historically decisive in elections, are drawn to his inclusive politics, respectful engagement.and empowerment-driven agenda.

Together, this coalition of faith, women, youth, and professionals represents the most formidable electoral force in Imo’s political history.

Further heightening tensions is the speculation that Mr. Peter Obi, candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election could align with the APP, should national political realignments make such a move strategic, particularly if Mr. Obi does not secure the ADC presidential ticket.

Such an alliance would fundamentally alter Imo’s political equation. This looming possibility, it is believed, explains the ferocity of the attacks on the APP, the litigations, and the desperate attempts to brand the party as unstable and toxic, before it becomes a rallying point for a broader coalition. But an impeccable source, disclosed that the silence of the APP on the litigation is strategic as the leadership are in receipt of intelligence that the government is at a loss as to their status and wants to draw them out to disclose their status for possible negotiations.

Despite sustained attacks, intimidation, and surveillance, Dr. Amadi has remained calm, strategic and disciplined. Fully aware that his movements are being monitored and that powerful interests are bent on keeping him in check, he has chosen strategy and preparation rather than grandstand.

Those who know him insist he understands one immutable truth of Imo politics: the loudest politician rarely win.

Governor Hope Uzodinma has every reason to jitter over capacity backed by credibility and insider structure backed by numbers and results, reasons he bothers less about other aspirants.

Elemuo a journalist, writes from Owerri.

Sir Henry Ceejay Ezebuiro, a global entrepreneur and humanitarian, has commended the legacy and leadership of former Nigerian head of state, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), following a courtesy visit to the elder statesman in Minna, Niger state.

Ezebuiro visited Babangida at his private residence over the weekend, where the former military president praised his humanitarian engagements and encouraged him to sustain his development-focused initiatives.

Describing the encounter as symbolic, Ezebuiro said the meeting represented a bridge between generations and an opportunity to draw from the experience of a leader who played a defining role in Nigeria’s political history.

“This visit was about legacy meeting purpose. I came to acknowledge General Babangida’s place in Nigeria’s journey and to receive guidance from a leader whose influence remains significant,” he said.

The visit featured a traditional blessing from Babangida to Ezebuiro — a gesture widely regarded as an expression of goodwill, endorsement and the transfer of wisdom from an elder to a younger leader.

Observers said the interaction underscored mutual respect and the importance of intergenerational dialogue in leadership and nation-building.

Ezebuiro, whose business interests span healthcare mobility solutions, real estate and humanitarian work across Africa, North America and parts of Asia, urged younger Nigerians to draw lessons from the sacrifices and experiences of past leaders.

Babangida, who ruled Nigeria between 1985 and 1993, remains an influential figure in national discourse, known for key economic and diplomatic policies during his tenure and his continued engagement as an elder statesman.

A source close to the former head of state said the meeting reflected leadership continuity and respect for institutional memory, noting that such engagements are vital for shaping a stable future.

The visit ended with prayers for Nigeria’s unity, peace and progress — values both men reaffirmed as central to the country’s development.

Calls It Democratic Gain**[i][/i]

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Imo State Chapter, through its Directorate for Support Groups, Diaspora Affairs, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), has welcomed the entry of three prominent political figures into the party, describing the development as a major boost for democracy in the state.

Those received into the party are former Imo State Governor, Chief Achike Udenwa; former Governor of Imo State and President of Imo Community Europe, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; and Chairman of the Association of Igbo in Europe, Hon. High Chief Tony Nwaribe.

In a statement signed by the Director-General of the Directorate, Comr. (Dr.) Diamond Bryan Agu, the ADC said the decision of the trio to align with the party underscores its growing status as a credible political platform for progressive-minded leaders.

Agu noted that the entry of the three leaders strengthens the party’s commitment to good governance, institutional reforms and people-focused leadership, adding that their collective experience will deepen ADC’s democratic credentials in Imo State.

He described Chief Achike Udenwa, who governed Imo State for eight years and later served as Minister of Commerce and Industry, as a seasoned statesman with extensive national exposure and grassroots appeal.

According to him, Udenwa’s experience in governance and public administration will significantly enhance the party’s drive for accountability, inclusive development and economic revitalisation in Imo State.

The Directorate also commended Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha for his legislative background and policy-oriented leadership style, describing his tenure in public office as impactful despite its brevity.

It stated that Ihedioha’s democratic values, administrative energy and reformist mindset would help shape a governance culture anchored on the rule of law, strong institutions and progressive public policy.

Hon. High Chief Tony Nwaribe was equally praised for his influence within the diaspora community, with the ADC noting that his leadership roles in Europe position him to mobilise support and resources for the party.

The Directorate said Nwaribe’s involvement is expected to strengthen international engagement and enhance diaspora participation in the political and developmental affairs of Imo State.

Agu reaffirmed that the Directorate for Support Groups and Diaspora Affairs remains a strategic mobilisation hub within the ADC, coordinating party activities across Imo State and among Nigerians in the diaspora.

He added that the Directorate is committed to projecting a people-oriented image of the ADC through sustained engagement with civil society, effective mobilisation and media-friendly initiatives.

The Director-General expressed optimism about the party’s growing momentum, describing Nigeria’s current situation as deeply troubling and urging well-meaning Imo indigenes and Nigerians to rally around the ADC as a platform for national renewal.

He stressed that the ADC remains positioned as a viable alternative capable of restoring democratic governance and rescuing the country from what he described as policy failure and leadership deficit.

The people of Okigwe Zone in Imo State will on Saturday converge on Obowo for a peace and unity summit aimed at addressing the political and economic challenges confronting the zone.

They will also use the summit to chart pathways for sustainable peace and unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Organised under the aegis of the Okigwe Zone Council of Traditional Rulers, the summit is expected to attract all elected and appointed political leaders from the zone.

Among the top political figures expected at the event are former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Maurice Iwu; former Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim; the current Senator representing Okigwe Zone, Senator Patrick Ndubueze; Senator Athan Achonu; Senator Ifeanyi Araraume; and Senator Sylvester Anyanwu.

Members representing the zone in the House of Representatives — Hon. Chike Okafor and Hon. Miriam Onuoha — will also attend, alongside Hon. Emeka Nwajiuba, Hon. Austin Nwachukwu, and Hon. Chike Olemgbe, the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly.

On the executive side, the Secretary to the Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmas Iwu, will lead commissioners and other political appointees from the zone to Otoko, the venue of the event.

The six members of the Imo State House of Assembly from Okigwe Zone, the six local government chairmen, and all councillors from the area are also expected to attend.

It is further believed that billionaire businessman, Chief Tony Chukwu, will lead the business community and private sector players from the zone to the summit.

Traditional rulers, who are the prime organisers of the event, will storm Otoko, the headquarters of Obowo Local Government Area, to lend royal support to the political and economic renaissance of the zone.

Similarly, members of the clergy, including bishops from key denominations, have been invited to the summit, which will be chaired by Nze Chukwu Ozichukwu, immediate past National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

According to an invitation letter signed by the Chairman of the Steering Committee, Hon. Sam Osuji, and the Secretary, Chuc On Chukwuemeka, Prof. Chidi Osuagwu will deliver the keynote address.

The letter stated that the keynote address will focus on *peace, unity, and reconciliation*, while also highlighting how peace and unity can unlock the zone’s vast economic potential.

It further noted that the summit will explore strategies to strengthen Okigwe Zone’s political relevance for sustainable development.

A former Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University, Owerri, Prof. Ossy Nwebo, will serve as the chief discussant of the keynote paper, alongside other prominent academics from the zone.

The organisers urged all stakeholders from the zone — including students, market women, professionals, and community leaders — to attend the summit.

BY UCHE EJIOFOR

A recent blog post by one obscure blogger, Francis Ndimkoha making rounds on social media attempted to link Prince (Dr) Alex Mbata, the renowned philanthropist and industrialist, to the ongoing Ngwoma Obube Ezeship tussle. The write-up, published by an obscure online platform, is a lazy piece of quack journalism, riddled with falsehood and desperate attempts to draw attention through name-dropping.

For the record, Prince (Dr) Mbata has absolutely nothing to do with the traditional leadership matter in question.

The Imo State High Court, Owerri North Judicial Division, presided over by Hon. Justice L.C. Alinnor, on October 2, 2025, issued an order restraining both parties in the Ezeship dispute — Chinedu Ekeocha and Kemakolam Onukogu — from parading themselves as the Eze of Ngwoma Obube pending the determination of the substantive suit. The ruling was clear, balanced, and lawful. At no point did the court mention, refer to, or in any way involve Prince (Dr) Alex Mbata.

It is therefore baffling and laughable that anyone would seek to inject Mbata’s name into a matter that is strictly between the Ekeocha and Onukogu families. This mischief smacks of ignorance and desperation, the hallmark of poorly trained pseudo-journalists who see defamation as a career path. The attempt to associate a respected citizen like Prince (Dr) Mbata with such a local royal contest is not only misleading but malicious.

If the quack writer, Ndimkoha had even a basic understanding of journalistic ethics, he would have cross-checked the facts before publishing. The court did not indict, reference, or even hint at Prince (Dr) Mbata.

Instead, the judge ordered both sides to maintain the status quo — a fair, standard ruling in cases like this. Turning such a judicial directive into a smear piece against an innocent man only exposes the amateurism and lack of integrity of those behind it.

The truth remains that Prince (Dr) Alex Mbata stands tall as a man of peace, philanthropy, and development. His contributions to Ngwoma Obube and Imo State are visible — from empowerment programs to infrastructure support and scholarships that have changed countless lives. These are verifiable records, not online gossip from unknown bloggers struggling for clicks and attention.

By dragging his name into a case that does not concern him, the faceless writers behind that publication have only displayed their pettiness and professional bankruptcy. Their desperation to stay relevant has turned them into instruments of character assassination — a shameful misuse of the media space and an insult to responsible journalism.

The Nigerian Union Of Journalists, NUJ and media regulators must clamp down on this rising wave of online blackmail masquerading as news. Freedom of expression must not become freedom to defame. Those who use digital platforms, such as Francis Ndimkoha to malign credible individuals like Prince (Dr) Alex Mbata must be made to face the full weight of the law.

The court acted within justice — it is those twisting the facts that should be restrained, not the truth itself.

Ejiofor writes from Ngwoma Obube

COMMUNIQUE BY ORLU ZONE DEVELOPMENT FORUM ISSUED AT THE END OF ITS QUARTERLY MEETING HELD ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH 2025.

Orlu Zone Development Forum, is the apex development and leadership forum of Orlu Zone, Imo State. The Forum met to discuss the state of Affairs of Imo State under the able leadership of their illustrious son and brother, Most Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma CON GSSRS (Onwa Oyoko) as it concerns his deliberate efforts and good intentions in providing the State with a focused, purposeful and transformative leadership which has repositioned and placed the State ahead of its contemporaries at a more strategic and visible location on the socio-political map of Nigeria amongst comity of States.

The Forum had after thoughtful and thorough deliberations and cursory study of situation of things in the State resolved as follows:-

1.That the good people of Orlu Zone like all well meaning Nigerians are extremely satisfied and impressed with the excellent performance of their illustrious son and brother, His Excellency, Most Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma CON GSSRS (Onwa Oyoko) for courageously confronting the myriad of socio-economic and political problems bedeviling the State as it's Governor and adopting proactive measures in providing lasting and effective solutions to the hitherto intractable problems that had weighed down the State prior to his ascendency.

2 That the achievements and giant strides of the Governor and his 3R Shared Prosperity government are very glaring and evidential and should be applauded by all and sundry as conspicuously dotted across diverse sectors which include but are not limited to:-(i) Paving and construction of massive solid road infrastructure via a multinational construction giant like Cranemburg such as Owerri/Orlu dual carriage way with street lights, Owerri-Okigwe highway with streets lights, Owerri/Mbaise/Obowo/Umuahia highway with streets lights, Mgbidi-Oguta highway, Mgbidi-Orlu highway,MCC/ Uratta road, Chukwuma Nwaoha road and other network of urban roads in the Capital City of Owerri, on going construction of Orlu/Mgbee/Urualla/Akaokwa/Uga highway etc.

(i) Restoration of the past glory of the State in the educational sector by overhauling the system through the establishment of two new State owned Universities ( Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University and The University of Agriculture & Environmental Sciences Umuagwo), attracting the Federal Government to upgrade Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education to Alvan Ikoku Federal University College of Education, upgrading the already existing Imo State University with the introduction of new courses and accreditation of various courses like medicine which had suffered a setback in the past and graduation of it's medical students who were stagnant before Uzodimma's administration came on board.

(ii) Activation of the health sector of the State through rehabilitation and equipping of the Primary Health Care Centers across the State, attracting the Federal Government's upgrading of Federal Medical Center Owerri to Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri, domestication of National Health Insurance Scheme Program in the State and host of others.

(iii) Laying of solid foundation for sustainable energy and electric power generation in the State by securing the on going construction of mega gas plant of the Federal Government at Ohaji-Egbema and establishment of the State owned Orashi Electricity Company to beef up uninterrupted electricity supply in the State.

(iv) Partnering with Federal Agencies to dredge and open up the channels of Oguta Lake for effective navigation and communication with the Atlantic Ocean.

(v) Improved working condition for Imo Civil Servants, especially with the recent unprecedented wage increase of #104,000 Minimum Wage which has placed our Governor ahead of his contemporaries as the most worker- friendly Governor in the Country.

(vi) Transformation of the landscape of the Capital City of Owerri with a brand new state of the art Architectural master piece of befitting Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Center alongside a monumental interchange flyover bridges at Control Post Owerri, both of which will enhance the tourism potentials of the State.

3.That the efforts of the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Most Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma CON GSSRS (Onwa Oyoko) in combating insecurity and organized crime in the State has yielded a good result with the return of peace and normalcy in the hitherto identified security flashpoints in some parts of the State and called for more collaboration, support and encouragement of the Imo Citizens by providing useful information to relevant security Agencies to sustain the tempo and gain already achieved.

4 That the Forum frowns at deliberate machinations and orchestrations of some individuals and groups in the State who engage in phony conduct and actions that are tailored towards distracting the Governor. This include various forms of group agitations and campaigns for 2027 alongside frequent visitations to the Governor which center on these trivialities that are better left for the appropriate time considering that the Governor has barely spent one year and some months of his second tenure of four years and deserves to be allowed to concentrate on his work within the remaining two years and some months to consolidate on his achievements rather than these unnecessary frequent visits and activities that have taken the semblance of stampede on the Governor over issues of 2027.

5.That the Forum being alive and conscious of it's responsibility has taken note of some rampaging hate campaigners who are deliberate in their vain efforts to misinform and incite the unsuspecting Imo public against the Governor and warns that henceforth, such notorious trouble shooters and their collaborators must be called to order by their people and elders of their areas of origin as Orlu Zone Development Forum takes exception to those negative campaigns against their own brother and illustrious son, His Excellency Most Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma CON GSSRS (Onwa Oyoko), the Executive Governor of Imo State and henceforth might be forced to take drastic steps which perpetrators won't find easy to contain.

6.That the Forum reaffirms it's support and further passes a VOTE OF of CONFIDENCE in their illustrious son and brother, His Excellency, Most Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma CON GSSRS (Onwa Oyoko), the Executive Governor of Imo State, assures of its continued support, solidarity and calls on the good people of Imo State, especially leaders and elders of various regional bodies across the State to continue to support the Governor and his 3R Government in the interest of the development and transformation of the State which remains the cardinal objective of the Governor.

Signed:

1. Sir A. C. Otuokere Esq
2. HRH Eze Amb. Damian Obianigwe
3. Rt. Hon. Chuma Nnaji
4. Rt. Hon. Amarachi Iwuanyanwu
5. Hon. Eugene Dibiagwu
6. Nnamdi Anyaehie Esq
7. Chief Barr. Rex C. Anunobi
8. Bishop Dr G. U. Nwaeze
9. Prof U. A. Awuzie
10. Hon. Justice Goddy Anunihu KSC
11. Dr. Richard Mirikwe
12. Chief Cosmas Maduba
13. Prof. F. C. Dike SAN
14. Hon Ugochukwu Nzekwe
15. Chief P. C. Mgbenwelu
16. Ogbuagu Kenn Obiekwe
17. HRH Eze Obinna Akwiwu
18. Hon Justice P. C. Onumajuru OFR
19. Hon Justice F. C. Abosi
20. Chief G.G.E. Iheka
21. Hon Sir Ifeanyi D. Oruh

For ORLU ZONE DEVELOPMENT FORUM.

By: Ekeledirichukwu Asikaogu Oruwari

For telling leaders of Owerri zone the gospel truth, namely that he has no powers to single handedly anoint one of their own as his successor, and which is contrary to their demand or expectations, Governor Hope Uzodimma is being accused in several quarters within the zone of finally “dribbling” the people of the zone. The insinuation is not new but it got added impetus after the August 20, 2025 courtesy call of Owerri zone stakeholders. It was at that meeting that Governor Uzodimma made it clear to the so-called leaders of the zone that the entitlement mentality with which they are going about their quest to produce his successor may back fire. Without mincing words, the governor argued that Okigwe zone may scuttle their chances if it is not properly carried along.

Perhaps even more instructive was the governor’s revelation that his major concern will be to erase the existing confusion and uncertainties in the polity that arose from “some mischief of the past”. Not many took more than a casual notice of that particular statement but for me, it is the kernel of everything he said. The mischief the governor was referring to is the rail-roading of Rochas Okorocha, an Orlu zone fellow, into office in 2011 – with the active support of some Owerri zone leaders – after Achike Udenwa, another Orlu zone fellow, had put in eight years as governor, thus effectively depriving Okigwe zone from completing eight years as Orlu zone had done.

The confusion that exists now and which His Excellency was talking about is that today, while Okigwe is insisting that it must be allowed another four years to complete its eight years, since we are talking about equity, some so-called Owerri zone leaders are saying it is now or never; that Okigwe zone can go to hell and that it must produce the next governor after Uzodimma. In recognizing the fact that Okigwe is capable of ‘sabotaging’ Owerri zone’s efforts to produce his successor if not properly placated, what Governor Uzodimma is indirectly saying is that we might end up with a situation where neither Okigwe nor Owerri will produce his successor and the confusion will continue.

Some might argue that Uzodimma is in a dilemma but he is clearly not. The matter is simple: the confusion he has acknowledged can only be cleared by giving Okigwe the chance to complete its eight years. Once that happens, Owerri zone will then seamlessly go for its own eight years and sanity will return to the Imo polity. If that does not happen, the confusion will go beyond 2027 and by 2031, neither Owerri nor Okigwe will again produce the governor.

Still, just as Governor Uzodimma cannot single handedly anoint a fellow from Owerri zone as his successor; he cannot similarly do so in respect of Okigwe. But the important thing is that the governor has been courageous in telling the die-hard pundits of the Owerri zone governorship project that is not simply theirs for the asking. This courage being exhibited by Governor Uzodimma shows leadership but it is the root cause of the attacks he is receiving from a section of the Owerri zone political elite and which brings us to the main concern of this essay.

What worries observers most is that the Owerri zone leaders seem to have ingeniously found a way or presenting themselves as friends of the governor while deploying arsenals through some within their ranks against him. Let us take one illustration. A well-known commentator on public affairs, Sam Amadi, from Ngor Okpala local government area in Owerri zone, leaves nobody in doubt that he is out to ensure that Uzodimma is seen as failure in governance. Amadi has posted countless articles especially in the social media in which he described Governor Uzodimma in unprintable words, to the extent of heaping personal insults on him.

Yet, Amadi, who is widely believed to be one of those eyeing the office of the governor in 2027, is the “Director of Strategy” of the Imo Harmony Project (IHP), one of the groups championing the Owerri zone governorship project. The IHP is led by Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho, a former Minister of Interior, who has led emissaries to the governor to tell him how much he loves and cherishes him and how much Owerri zone people appreciate the good work he is doing.

On March 10, 2025, Iheanacho led a delegation of stakeholders in Owerri zone to remind the governor of his “promise” to hand over power to someone from the area. As an anecdote to that reminder, Iheanacho had praised the governor to high heavens and so did other “leaders” who were in the delegation. Yet, the following week, Amadi launched a series of broadcasts (every Thursday) on his Face book wall which, according to him, is devoted solely to interrogating issues of governance in Imo state. Those familiar with his Face book wall would attest to the fact that everything Amadi says in his post concerning Imo state and Governor Uzodimma are in exact opposites of what Ihenacho and the other leaders say each time they come face to face with the governor. On August 20, 2025, Ihenacho had another opportunity to flatter the governor while speaking on behalf of the IHP during another “courtesy” visit to Governor Uzodimma. He even went to the extent of reminding the governor that the IHP has been promoting his administration beyond the country. Here, keen watchers of the Imo political terrain point out that Ihenacho is at it again. He did the same thing to Governor Ikedi Ohakim in 2011; praising him to high heavens in his presence but working clandestinely to scuttle the Charter of Equity which he now talks about.

It is possible that His Excellency might have seen Amadi’s Face book posts in question and might have also noticed that he has never been part of the “courtesy” calls to him. But here is an opportunity to ask some questions. How is it that the IHP’s “Director of Strategy” (the engine room of IHP), Sam Amadi, is so anti Uzodimma and his administration and yet, the leader of the group, Ihenacho, praises him to high heavens? For me, the answer is not far-fetched. Amadi’s own job is to work out ‘strategies’ on how to make Uzodimma look so weak and vulnerable that when the chips are down, he will be so helpless that he will have no option but to look up to Owerri zone people for help. That is the assignment given to Amadi, the ‘strategist’ while Ihenacho and the others are to mesmerize the governor by mere cajolery disguised in hyperboles. These conspirators know too well that His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, is an astute politician but they are deploying a strategy that is derived from our native parlance of “Imara Nkea, Ima Nke Ozor” (If You Know This One, Do You Know The Other One?)

But perhaps the most baffling of all is the activities of another Amadi from the same Ngor Okapala, Dr Mathew Chima Amadi who is also a member of the IHP. Chima Amadi is not a social media miscreant like his brother, Sam, but I am inclined to believe that His Excellency would have noticed his relentless attacks on him also. The same week the so-called Owerri zone leaders made their most recent courtesy visit to Governor Uzodimma (August 20, 2025), Chima Amadi hosted a seminar for Catholic men in the Owerri Archdiocese at the Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri. The event was covered live by the Arise Television, watched all over the world and highly reliable sources have it that Amadi bankrolled everything including stipends for the innocent Catholic men who attended. Those who came across the coverage of the event must have noticed that the main purpose of the seminar, though under the guise of being one of the annual activities of the now famous August Meetings in the Southeast, was to lambast Governor Uzodimma and his administration. Feelers show that Amadi’s handlers forum-shopped the event to show-case him.

Amadi, who has left nobody in doubt that he wants to be governor in 2027, come rain or sunshine, even when he does not belong to any political party, did not disappoint his followers. Having established within himself that the only avenue through which he can get into the Government House, Owerri, is to ceaselessly launch personal attacks on Governor Uzodimma, he was at his best, during that more than three-hour long show.

It is needless going into details of what he said here but those who have come across media reports of that event would attest that to be fact that Amadi merely shied away from calling the governor a complete failure. In other words, what he said was the exact opposite of what other Owerri zone leaders usually say each time they go to the governor. The Assumpta Cathedral outing got prominence because it was televised live but before and after, it was the same antics: Governor Uzodimma does no good, and will never do any good according to the gospel of Chima Amadi.

Yet, just like in the case of the other Amadi, not a word has come from any of the Owerri zone leaders to caution Chima Amadi who has thrown every caution to the winds. Apart from the IHP, we have leaders of the Owerri Zone Political Leaders Forum OZOPOLF – the Chalvons of this world, the Haritexes of this world, the Lemys of this world, the Chikwes of this world and what have you.

Even so, there is ample evidence to show that the leadership of IHP is very much supportive of Chima Amadi and his antics. On the very day Chima Amadi was arriving Owerri for the Assumpta Cathedral event, a post appeared on the Face book wall of Mr. Willie Amadi, IHP’s Director of Media, depicting him alighting from his private jet at the Sam Mbakwe International Airport with the caption “On Aburi We Stand”. Willie Amadi – this time from Owere Nchise – has been trending his “On Aburi We Stand” slogan for the past three months despite public disapproval, within and outside Imo state, that a mere gubernatorial matter does not warrant evoking the ugly memories of the Aburi (Ghana) stalemate that resulted in the pogrom of 1966 and the subsequent three-year long civil war.

To call a spade a spade and not an agricultural implement, the entire political elite in Owerri zone stands accused of collaborating with the three Amadis – Sam, Chima and Willie – in their campaign of calumny against our performing governor. At best they are merely looking the other way hoping, that the governor can be intimidated into abnegating office for them even before 2027. The only voices of caution were the ones from the same Ngor Okpala and it was for obvious reasons. Hon Bede Eke, who wrote an open letter to Chima Amadi, advising him to retrace his steps, is Governor Uzodimma’s Commissioner for Housing and New City Development. Even though he is said to be a close friend of Dr Amadi, he must have done that to impress his boss. The other voice came from Hon. Obinna Egu, the member representing Ngor Okpala state constituency in the Imo House of Assembly. Egu’s wife is Uzodimma’s Commissioner for Health, apart from the fact that the honourable member, himself, owes his emergence entirely to the closeness of Governor Uzodimma and his father-in-law, Chief Lemmy Akakem.

But where is Akakem himself; one of the fellows who usually occupies the front seats during the inglorious courtesy calls? Where are the Charles Amadis, the Henry Njokus, the Alex Mbatas, the Kema Chikwes, the Nlemigbos, the Sylvester Obinnas etc.? Are they waiting for the next courtesy visit when they will again try to bamboozle the governor telling him that Owerri zone loves him; that they are united, ready to take the mantle from him? But Uzodimma should now know better. They are united in something else: To weaken him emotionally and psychologically and possibly deal with him when they finally get power, by which time it would have become too late.

But I am certain that will never find ourselves in such a situation, so long as the governor does not relent in his avowal to clear the confusion that arose from the mischief of 2011. He should be encouraged to pursue this noble objective by all well-meaning indigenes of Imo state and their friends outside. Meanwhile, he should be vigilant. There is a native aphorism depicting the cunning tortoise which goes into the bush, strikes a tree with his cutlass, then rushes out to the road and shouts, “who’s cutting the tree”?. I think this aptly captures what this crop of Owerri zone leaders is doing in their bid to confuse the governor and capture Imo state.

Barrister Oruwari Writes From Mbaitoli LGA, Imo State

The yearning for a massive production and equitable distribution of valuable cash crops in Nigeria may have been rested, following the latest contract signed by one of Nigeria's largest investors, Ambassador Tochil Nwaneri, with Arbid S. Arbid Agropecuaria of Brazil.

The agreement was signed on Thursday, August 28, 2025, by both parties in Brazil, officially bearing the joint venture name *"Tochil-Arbid Agricultural Hub Center Co. Ltd.

While Amb. Dr. Tochil Nwaneri represented his brand as the Chairman of Tochil Group of Companies, Mr. Giuliano Arbid stood for his company as the Chairman of Arbid S. Arbid Agropecuaria of Brazil.

Information made available to this newspaper disclosed that Arbid processes major cash crops like cotton, yellow corn, soybeans, and sugar in large quantities and, by virtue of the new contract, would enter Nigerian markets, courtesy of Amb. Nwaneri.

Briefing newsmen after the paperwork, the Chairman of Tochil Group, Amb. Nwaneri, hinted that it was an effort geared towards the development of farming and distribution of the aforementioned cash crops in Nigeria.

He opined that the joint venture he embarked upon with Arbid will further enhance mega farming, considering the fact that his Brazilian partner is an expert in the field who wields sophisticated modern farming and processing equipment.

Against this backdrop, Nwaneri expressed optimism that having signed the contract, which reads into 360,000 metric tons including agro processing, it is a new dawn for Nigerians and other African countries.

Furthermore, the Nigeria-born entrepreneur, employer of labour, and boardroom strategist opined that with the new contract, the market is open in Nigeria and across Africa.

Buttressing further, Amb. Tochil Nwaneri averred that through this move, Nigeria stands a great chance of boasting in the production of cotton, yellow corn, soybeans, and sugar, with other agro products inclusive.

On Tuesday, 5th August 2025, the Vicar, Rev. Canon Ben Durueke delegated me to visit a member who had been admitted to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owerri.

Upon arriving, I discovered that for the past three days since his admission, treatment had not commenced because he was unable to pay the deposit, scan bills, or the cost of his medicines. His brother, a medical doctor and the Managing Director of a government hospital in Owerri, who had directed him to the FMC on Sunday, had since stopped taking his calls and was not responding to him. They believed this was deliberate as he did not want to assist his elder brother in getting the necessary treatment. They were frustrated, and I was heartbroken.

I prayed for him and decided to return and inform the Vicar. Just then, a man walked into the ward. He approached our member and encouraged him. In the middle of the ward, he announced that he would pay for the treatment, tests, and surgeries required for all the patients.

The doctors and nurses turned around to look at him. "I will give the nurses and doctors here attending to the patients two million Naira," he said. He produced the money in cash and gave it to them. The doctors and nurses scrambled for paper to calculate how to share it amongst themselves. He then instructed them to give him the bills for all the patients they did, and he made an immediate transfer into the FMC account and into the wallets of all the patients.

As he was leaving, I and some other individuals followed him out of curiosity. I wanted to find out what he would do next. This man moved from ward to ward, from one hospital bed to another, and at each one, he gave the doctors and nurses two million Naira in cash.

He asked each patient in the wards, "How much have you paid so far in your treatment?"

Some said three hundred thousand Naira, others said seven hundred thousand, six hundred and fifty thousand, five hundred thousand, and so on. He refunded all of them in cash, giving them the exact amount they mentioned and even adding more on top of the original sum. Some of the patients said they had been there for over a year with no hope and no help. He paid for them and effectively discharged them from the hospital.

At one female ward, he noticed a vacant bed. He was told that the patient had been taken for a test by the nurses. He pledged three hundred thousand naira would be sent to her since he didn't know how much she had spent or would spend.

At the orthopaedic ward, a man who had been shot in the leg said that armed robbers had taken his motorcycle. He asked him the price of a brand-new one. "One million Naira," the man replied. He gave it to him in cash.

People started crowding around him, asking, "Who are you?" and "What is your name?"

He did not care. He did not ask anyone for their name or phone number or give his own. He did not reveal his name. No one said they knew him. No one knew where he came from.

People started taking out their phones and cameras to record what was happening. The man continued to conduct his ward rounds, paying for people and transferring money to FMC's account.

I estimated that the cash he handed out in our presence was about N50m (fifty million Naira). I can not say how much he transferred for hospital bills, but I believe it would be in a similar region of between 50m and 100m-my rough estimate.

As he was about to leave, I was moved and requested to pray for him, and we had a session of prayer.
Please remember such individuals in your prayers. I didn't know that someone took pictures of when l was praying for him. He sent it to me. Unfortunately, even our government doesn't have such heart. These are the people whom God should truly bless and prosper.


This is wishing the man all the best.


Ordinand Samson Oguinya

Amid the paranoia over the Owerri zone governorship matter, some elements in the zone have shown exceptional courage to differ from the rest of their kit and kin to the extent that they have been branded black legs. Yet, each time the matter is tabled for discussion, the position and advice taken or given by these few keep reoccurring as the most realistic approach in search for a panacea for what is now a clear quagmire. At the last meeting between Governor Hope Uzodimma and stakeholders from the zone, the governor for a second time in less than six months, again told the stakeholders that, as legitimate as the quest for an Owerri zone-born governor in 2027/28 is, the entitlement mentality with which they are going about it will lead to nowhere.

As a matter of fact, Governor Uzodimma sounded even more vehement than he was at an earlier meeting on March 10, 2025. He was categorical in stating that except Owerri zone leaders go about the matter with the needed diplomacy, the other two zones will sabotage the project, pointing at Okigwe zone in particular. Minus the fact that most of the so-called Owerri leaders seem to prefer to listen to themselves only, the emphasis on Okigwe zone is significant.


It has been said severally before by some of the best heads in the entire state that a deliberate engagement with our brothers in Okigwe zone on the matter is highly imperative. But such suggestions have been continually dismissed by the so-called leaders of OZOPOLF, IHP, OZAC and what have you; in preference for pilgrimages to the Government House, Owerri in search of an anointment.

Long before the March 10, 2025 meeting at which Governor Uzodimma told our people that power is not a “turn-by-turn-affair” – as my people in Owerri zone seem to see it – at least three eminent indigenes of the area have dwelt on cautious optimism as an imperative in the search for an Imo governor of Owerri zone extraction come 2027/28. One of them is Chief Mike Nwachukwu, a son of the zone well-grounded in political engineering. Nwachukwu had since early 2024 advocated for a conclave of eminent leaders from both Owerri and Okigwe zones, where the matter would be trashed out and a consensus reached. But he was called names by his own people, a black leg. It was perhaps out of frustration that Nwachukwu, in what clearly detracted from the candour with which he is known, posited recently that if his people must insist, then they should go for the Mbaise-born Emeka Ihedioha who had a seven-month stint as governor of the state between May 2019 and January 2020.


With that submission, Nwachukwu must have further heightened the anger of his kinsmen in the Owerri federal constituency – especially the Owerri North axis – who are widely believed to believe that an Imo governor of Owerri zone extraction must come from amongst them. Beyond Nwachukwu, however, have also come words of caution from highly respected indigenes of Imo state of Owerri zone extraction. We have had submissions from a prince of Owerre Nchise, our own Ndaa Bob Njemanze, who has maintained that in the spirit of equity, Okigwe zone should produce the next governor of Imo state, that is, after Uzodimma.

Let’s see what Prince Njemanze posited in a widely read newspaper interview in July last year: “…My first choice is Owerri zone but how do we realize it? If we do not recognize that Okigwe has as much right as we do and we generate a situation where Okigwe zone comes fully back into the contest, they will achieve an understanding with Orlu which will cost Owerri the seat. So, it will either be that an Okigwe person takes the seat or Orlu will take it”. Maybe Njemanze’s kinsmen took him for granted since, as they say, a prophet is not recognized at home. But that same prophecy has now come from a greater prophet: the governor himself!


Uzodimma was even more vehement when he employed the metaphor of a good sportsman in admonishing the Owerri leaders at the August 20, 2025 meeting. He advised that rather than the paranoia that is largely evident, we should go about it in the spirit of sportsmanship and be ready to take the outcome of the game in good faith. He didn’t stop there. The governor reminded our people that contrary to sympathy-seeking and, indeed, fallacious narratives that Owerri zone has always been denied the opportunity of producing the governor of the state, the late Evan Enwerem, who governed the state for eighteen months, was from Owerri zone. Of course, some of us were not happy hearing that from the governor but I think we forced him into going that length. He has been blackmailed with making a promise to hand over to a fellow from Owerri zone; which turned out to be an outright falsehood. Yet, a highly vexations but senseless refrain, “On Aburi We Stand”, and authored by one of us, is currently trending in the social media.

But perhaps the most touching intervention on the matter under reference is the one made by one of the oldest political figures in Owerri zone, indeed an elder statesman, Mr. Paddy Obinna. Ndaa Paddy, as he is more popularly known, is 82 years old – indeed far more older than all those parading themselves as leaders of Owerri zone – and the elder brother of the Archbishop emeritus of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese, the Most Reverend Anthony J.V. Obinna. Like Bob Njemanze, who is also over 80 years old, Obinna has been unpretentious in asking his Owerri zone brethren to drop their governorship ambition and support Okigwe zone to produce the next Imo governor. Obinna is of the view that if the “grave mistake of 2011, which 80 per cent of Owerri zone political leaders orchestrated, must be corrected, Okigwe zone should be allowed a seamless completion of the remaining four years of its abridged tenure”.


But the most touching yet courageous aspect of Paddy’s advocacy is in conceding to the fact that his younger brother, the Archbishop emeritus, was among the Owerri zone elements who aided and abetted in the abridgement of Okigwe zone’s tenure in 2011. Of course, the story of Archbishop Obinna’s involvement in the 2011 Imo governorship election is too well known to be repeated here. What struck every pundit is that his elder brother, Paddy, who is the head of the Obinna family, was able to summon the courage to apologize on behalf of the family over his younger brother’s involvement in that unfortunate incident during a television interview. “I apologize to the world that the Obinnas are sorry about what happened … in 2011. As Catholic faithful, we go to confession when we sin. There is an atonement. But there is also the need to let the public know this”, Obinna had said during the interview.

My heart sank into my stomach as I watched the senior Obinna make those utterances as my initially instinct was that of an imminent family rift. But as things stand today, he must have spoken the mind of the entire family. The Archbishop, himself, set the stage for that contrition when some years after the 2011 saga, the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri, which he then headed, invited Chief Ikedi Ohakim, the major victim of the 2011 fiasco, and gave him an award. The senior Obinna corroborated that when, during the interview, he added that his younger brother, “on realizing the error”, gave Ohakim an Award.

He also made reference to the fact that Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka of Adoration Ministries, Enugu, who composed the infamous song against Ohakim, has also apologized publicly after admitting that he was misled. I have heard some pro-Ohakim pundits argue that the Archbishop emeritus should also personally publicly apologize but that is absolutely unnecessary. What his elder brother, who holds the Offor of the Obinna family, did is enough especially if we take into account the earlier gestures by the Archbishop himself.

From feelers, quite a good number of those who were similarly involved like Archbishop Obinna and Mbaka have gone privately to Ohakim to apologize but for me, that is not the most important thing. Whether or not Ohakim should be personally compensated by allowing him to mount the thrown again in 2027 is not the issue. The issue is that the entire Imo state, not just Owerri zone, now has an opportunity to address the confusion that arose from the 2011 “mistake” and which has continued to haunt the entire state. Those who listened attentively to Governor Uzodimma at the August 20, 2025 meeting would remember that he spoke about “addressing the lingering confusion that arose some mischief of the past”. That was self-explanatory. The confusion the governor was referring to is that which arose from supporting another fellow from Orlu zone to return to the office of the governor – after the former had done eight years – instead of allowing Okigwe to do just another four years to complete eight years like Orlu.


As far as I am concerned, Governor Uzodimma should pursue that cause without let or hindrance. He will be abused and called names but post-office, I can assure him that clearing this confusion will be one of his greatest legacies. For, if by happenstance an Owerri zone fellow succeeds him, the confusion will linger with even graver force in 2031. But as I have earlier noted, the governor has acknowledged that Okigwe zone will sabotage Owerri zone’s efforts in 2027 and we all know what the result will be; which is the likely hood that the office will go back to Orlu zone. That is the confusion the governor and all other well-meaning Imolites are talking about.

As expected, some die-hard elements in Owerri have dismissed this argument as a blackmail and an intimidation but they fail it completely. Let us hear from another of the best from Owerri zone: George Nkwoji. In a recent newspaper article entitled, “Owerri Zone, Leadership And Uzodimma Successor”, Nkwoji, himself a newspaper publisher, gave an interesting metaphor of his brethren in Owerri zone and the people of ancient Israel at a point in their life as told in Second Chronicles 18 Vs 16. He wrote: “The picture of Israel assembled for a war without a shepherd is exactly the condition of Nde Owerre in present day Imo state. The zone is ready for the battle for the governorship seat but it is scattered over OZOPOLF, Nzuko Owere, Ezurezu Mbaise, Olu Owerri, Imo Harmony Project etc as sheep that have no shepherd. Like Israel, Owerri zone should “return home” to the drawing board because it has “no master”.

Here, Nkwoji was drawing a parallel between the current state of affairs in his Owerri zone with Israel when it sought to go to war with Syria as narrated in the bible. Israel had assembled at Ramothgilead for the battle but without a leader. As was their tradition, King Ahab requested Prophet Micaiah to consult the Lord concerning the battle. When Prophet Miciaiah made the inquiry, the first thing God asked the prophet was if Israel was ready for the war. In response, the prophet affirmed that Israel was ready. However, the prophet added that the Israeli soldiers were scattered at the war front “as sheep that have no shepherd”. In reaction, God told the prophet to tell Israelites to return home as according to Him, “they have no master.” Okenze Nkwoji, therefore, posited that the lesson to be learnt from that story is that notwithstanding the fact that the people of Owerri zone have assembled for a war, the absence of a leader makes them appear scattered and, therefore, renders them incapable of fighting.

In conclusion, Nkworji wrote: “Nde Owerri should allow Okigwe zone to succeed governor Hope Uzodimma. The zone should go further to display insightfulness by supporting the emergence of Ikedi Ohakim as the next governor. Supporting Ohakim will shorten the gestation period of an Owere man in Douglas House, Owerri. Also by doing this, Okigwe would have completed its turn …This scenario will pave the way for Owerri zone to sort out the critical leadership question before embarking on another guber contest to succeed Okigwe zone. This will make a seamless establishment and nurture of the Imo Charter of Equity which we all yearn for. It will end in a win-win situation”.


In a nutshell, what Nkworji has done is nothing but an elaboration of what Governor Uzodimma meant when he made reference to a “lingering confusion” that arose from the “mischief” of the past which need to be address. Nkworji, who hails from Egbelu Obube in the Owerri North local government area of Imo state, might have been appealing to his kinsmen but I think the entire state stands to benefit if his advice is heeded to, just like those of his other bold, courageous and well-meaning brothers in Owerri zone.

Anyanwu Writes From Obibiezena In Owerri North LGA, Imo State

Everyone should remember the heartwarming scene played out at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, Imo State, when six-year-old Jessica, fondly called the “Youngest Nurse” from Mbaise, offered an emotional prayer for Chief Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi after he offset ₦45 million worth of hospital bills for abandoned patients.

Witnesses described the moment as touching and symbolic as young Jessica, dressed in her nurse’s attire, clasped her hands and prayed for long life and blessings upon the benefactor.

Hospital officials commended the intervention, noting that the financial relief not only brought joy to the patients and their families but also decongested wards, making room for more admissions.

Speaking after the event, Chief Dr. Amadi expressed gratitude to God for granting him the means to give back to society. He urged well-meaning Nigerians to support healthcare institutions and extend kindness to the less privileged.

Ambassador Goodluck Chidera Nwaneri, the Imo state Director of City Boy Movement and Southeast zonal coordinator of City Boy Movement (CBM) has paid a condolence visit on the new National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, over his mother's demise.

The APC Chieftain who hails from Ikeduru in Imo state said during the visit on Tuesday that the death of a mother is one that is painful, consoling the National Chairman not to cry like one without faith in God.

He expressed sympathy to Prof. Nentawe and the entire Yilwatda family, describing the deceased as irreplaceable.

He noted that the late Mrs. Lydia Toma Yilwatda lived an exemplary life of faith, humility, and service, evident in the leadership qualities and values instilled in her children.

Chief Nwaneri prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and asked God to grant the APC National Chairman and the family the strength and fortitude to bear the painful loss.

He also encouraged them to find comfort in the endearing legacy their mother left behind while reaffirming his solidarity with Prof. Nentawe in this moment of grief.

However, he urged the family to remain strong and united in honoring the life and memory of their departed matriarch.

A meeting between political leaders in Owerri zone and the Imo state governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, at the instance of the former, turned out to be a major set back for the zone’s quest to produce the latter’s successor.

The meeting, which held yesterday, Wednesday August 20th 2025, at the Sam Mbakwe exco chambers at the Government House, Owerri was well attended among whom were the crème de la crème in Owerri zone politics was apparently intended to assure the governor that the political leaders in the zone are now united in their quest.

The meeting started on a good note with the leader of the delegation at its spokesperson, Chief Charls Amadi (Chavon), speaking glowingly about the governor’s achievements especially on infrastructure of which, according to him, Owerri zone has been a major beneficiary. Chief Amadi assured the governor that the zone is now united to pursue the governorship project in one united voiced and that earned him a loud applause.

But trouble began when after Chief Amadi had ended his speech, he handed over the micro-phone to one of his well know political allies and the governorship aspirant, Chief Henry Njoku also known as Haritex, to give a vote of thanks. The hall immediately erupted as the audience murmured in disapproval because Chief Amadi’s move was interpreted to mean that as far as he was concerned, the meeting was over even without giving opportunity to the other leaders to speak. But the governor came to the rescue amid the uproar and directed that a few other leaders should be allowed to speak.

Thereafter, three other leaders, the former minister of aviation, Dr. Mrs. Kema Chikwe; former internal affairs minister, Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho and elder statesman, Sir Ambrose Ejiogu took time to speak.

Again, each spoke glowingly about the governor’s achievements and the resolve by Owerri zone leaders to work together to achieve their objective of producing his successor. They reminded the governor of his earlier stance that his successor will come from Owerri zone through the Imo Charter of Equity. Although the three speakers all harped on unity, there was palpable evidence that Chief Amadi’s earlier move was a calculated attempt to prevent leaders of the other rivalry groups from speaking.

Captain Ihenacho in his speech confirmed the fear that the said unity was yet to be achieved when in his speech, he reminded the governor of the existence of the Imo Harmony Project (IHP), one of the rivalry groups, led by him. He told the governor that the IHP has been projecting his image even outside the country but not surprisingly, his remarks was also greeted with murmuring since the audience disapproved his singling out of his own camp for mentioning even while alluding to a so-called unity.

In his response, Governor Uzodimma reminded the audience that he has always maintained that it was wrong to come to him to ask him to appoint a successor since he does not have the power to do so. He said that his successor will emerge through a democratic process that will involve every part of the state and not just Owerri zone.

“It depends on how you go about it. If you don’t carry other zones along, they will sabotage it. Okigwe people will sabotage it”, the governor told the Owerri zone leaders. The governor further reminded the leaders to begin to learn to be good sportsmen and women because if at the end they do not get what they want, they should be able to take it in good faith.

Governor Uzodimma pointed out that even though Owerri zone leaders have always harped on the fact that the two other zones have dominated the office of the governor, that it is also a fact that Owerri zone had also once produced the governor through the late Evan Enwerem.

He stated further that as far as he is concerned, the process that will lead to the emergence of the successor must be one that will address some moral issues that arose in the past through the actions of some mischief makers, pointing out, however, that in the end, only God will determine who will become his successor. But he quickly added that those who think that they can achieve it through confrontation are wasting their time because his successor can only emerge through his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

It will be recalled that at a similar meeting on March 10 2025, Governor Uzodimma had advised Owerri zone leaders to go home and settle among themselves so as to pursue their objective through a united front. The March 10 2025 meeting was led by Ihenacho and his IHP but evidently the August 20, 2025 meeting was the brain child of the Owerri zone political leaders forum (OZOPOLF), led by Charls Amadi.

BY LAWRENCE OPARA.

As an Imo indigene, I am used to the Uzodimma government insulting my intelligence. When they come out and cut ribbons or do groundbreakings, I know the subsequent project will be substandard at best and abandoned at worst. I am used to Governor Hope lying with a straight face about the security challenges in the state, with no scruples whatsoever. But even for them, the latest outburst I saw on Daily Post from the Commissioner for Information, Declan Emelumba, is a new low. In his attempt to discredit a private citizen's statement about Imo State’s appalling maternal mortality rate, the Commissioner didn’t just miss the point, he insulted our intelligence with a wild rant devoid of any introspection or logical thinking.

Emelumba was attacking a claim by Dr. Chima Amadi about Imo State having one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world due to lack of adequate healthcare for Ndị Imo. However, in his puerile and honestly infuriating rebuttal, Emelumba stated that Imo State’s maternal mortality ratio is a miraculous 163 deaths per 100,000 live births!

When I saw this claim, I convinced myself (against my better judgment) to give him the benefit of the doubt. Maybe the Uzodimma administration has changed and finally gives a hoot about ndị Imo. I checked his source. That was when I lost it. Emelumba got this unimpeachable piece of "fact" from KINGMAKERS.COM.NG. Yes, you read that right. A faceless website with zero credible references, no transparency, no verifiable names behind its publications, and absolutely no verifiable methodology. I could not believe my eyes. Here was the Commissioner for Information, paid on Imo taxpayers' dime, quoting the digital equivalent of gossip at the village square as "statistics." In fact village square gossip is giving it too much credit, because at least in the village square you know who is talking.

For those who don’t know, kingmakers.com.ng is not an official statistics body. It is not even a recognized data aggregator. It is a hoax website stuffed with half-baked figures, never citing a single valid source. At the end of this particular article, it included its sources as: National Bureau of Statistics, The Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) Program and Kingmakers Calculations. All these sources were embedded with links that actually lead nowhere. Why? The figures were made up. There was nowhere to reference. It's just propaganda. The Imo State Government, instead of consulting the National Bureau of Statistics, the World Health Organization, the Nigerian Ministry of Health or the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, went to the internet’s equivalent of a beer parlour to cook up numbers.

Now, here’s the reality the Commissioner so blatantly tried to subvert: according to a Dataphyte 2023 report, the real maternal mortality rate in Imo State is indeed around 1837 deaths per 100,000 live births. This is almost double the Nigerian average of 993 deaths per 100,000 (2023 CIA World Factbook). Let that sink in. We are not “well below” the national average as this government claims, we are dangerously above the national average. Dr. Amadi was right. This government does not care in the slightest about safeguarding the lives of ndị Imo.

Of course we all know why the government would scrape and scramble to find such obviously fabricated numbers. It is easier to pretend everything is rosy than to face the rot in our healthcare system. Admitting to the real figures would mean admitting they have failed to provide adequate maternal healthcare, failed to equip hospitals, and failed to save the lives of Imo women who die needlessly during childbirth.

If the government doesn’t even have or care to have accurate data about its own citizens, how can it possibly make any meaningful policy? Data is the foundation of any functional governance. Without data, you’re not running a government; you’re just guessing, signing contracts, and cutting ribbons for photo ops on a whim. Depending on a fake website for health statistics is heinous, and I am not surprised that the Uzodimma administration would sink that low.

This shameless reliance on hoax numbers is more than just incompetence. It is chronic negligence and mindless wickedness dressed up as governance. It tells every Imolite that the people in charge are not only incapable of doing something as basic as collecting real data, but also more willing to put out fake statistics than introspect and try to bridge this data gap.. If the state’s health statistics are sourced from fantasy websites, then I don't even want to think about how bad it is in other sectors.

The lives of mothers and babies in Imo State are not a PR prop for the governor's ignorant lapdogs to play stupid politics with. It is an issue too sacrosanct to be twisted for political convenience. Every single death is a human tragedy, because this is someone’s daughter, sister, or wife gone because the system failed them. Until we have a government that confronts reality instead of hiding behind hoax websites, the tragedies will continue.

So yes, Dr. Amadi’s numbers are on-point, and they force us to face the ugly truth that we have to sit up and save the lives of women and children in our state.

And to those in charge: please stop treating us like fools. This is the digital age. You can't just cook up tales of rainbows and sunshine and expect us to swallow them happily, while the reality burns the skin from our bones. You are barely 2 years into your second tenure but you are more focused on politicking for the next election than on delivering any actual governance. It is our brothers and sisters that suffer and die while you fiddle. Get back to work!

Lawrence Opara writes from Owerri North LGA

As the controversy over the purported endorsement of Governor Alex Otti by some residents of Aba in the name of Old Bende rages, the arrowhead of the exercise, Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, has been described as desperate to retain his seat as member representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency.

A group known as Old Bende Young Professionals had faulted Ikwechegh for the endorsement, arguing that he cannot speak for Old Bende.

But Ikwechegh, in a radio programme, described the group as non-existent, saying the members were hungry and seeking political relevance.

However, in a statement on Sunday in Umuahia, the group lambasted Ikwechegh for what it described as uncouth utterances, reflecting his bad temperament, which would have landed him in prison last year when he physically assaulted an Uber driver.


In the statement endorsed by the President, Barr. Chima Ogbonnaya, and the Secretary, Hon. Chief Dike Chidozie Okwara, the Old Bende Young Professionals took exception to being described as non-existent, saying that the members are young lawyers, accountants, doctors, journalists, entertainment executives, architects, tech executives, and various professionals determined to chart a new course in Old Bende.


It noted that, on the contrary, Ikwechegh and his co-travellers were the ones seeking the attention of Alex Otti with the endorsement since he has failed his constituents with low representation.

“Ikwechegh knows that he cannot retain his seat through APGA and his abysmal performance, so he wants to tag Otti for support. He didn’t even win the current term but had to rely on the court through technicalities,” the group submitted.

The group carpeted Ikwechegh for calling the past administrations ‘Egypt’, even while he was a key player.


According to it, “He wants to exonerate himself. Was he not a local government chairman? Was he not owing salaries to workers? His records are there, and he is already afraid of the judgment day come 2027 when the people of Aba will reject him like they did before.”

The young professionals disclosed that it was time for the indigenous people of Aba to take what belongs to them by resisting any attempt by Gov. Alex Otti to foist a non-indigene on them.

It urged Ikwechegh to return to Bende Local Government to contest and test his popularity instead of hanging on the tails of Alex Otti through a fraudulent endorsement.

The group deplored what it called the fraudulent endorsement by residents of Aba, claiming that it was the decision of the people of Old Bende.


“The so-called elders he mentioned from Old Bende in the fraudulent communiqué are residents of Aba and only vote in Aba. When the real people of Abia North were fighting for the governorship in 2023, they were all quiet. Such people cannot represent us,” it argued.

It noted that the simple questions it raised concerning the democratic validation of the purported endorsement of Gov. Alex Otti could not be answered satisfactorily by Ikwechegh.

“The funny thing is that he is not representing any federal constituency in Old Bende. We have Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu, the Deputy Speaker, representing Bende. We have Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa representing Arochukwu/Ohafia and then Hon. Amobi Ogah representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi, Hon. Obi Aguocha for Ikwuano/Umuahia. None of them was there, and not even Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Senator Austin Akobundu, and you claim you are speaking for Old Bende.”

The group averred that if Ikwechegh had endorsed Alex Otti in his name and those of his fellow Aba residents without mentioning Old Bende, he would not have been faulted since it falls within his constitutional rights.


It reiterated its stand that the governorship of Abia State will revert to Abia North in 2027.

“If Alex Otti is performing, we have credible people in Abia North who will outperform him, including being transparent in administering the finances of the state.”

Some concerned citizens of Ngwoma-Obube Autonomous Community in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State have issued a stern warning to those behind what they described as a coordinated campaign of blackmail and propaganda against their illustrious son and philanthropist, Prince (Dr.) Alex Mbata.

In a strongly worded statement signed by the President General (PG) of the community, Anthony Emeka Akwazie, and Anayo Azomchukwu, released over the weekend, the stakeholders described as false, unfounded, and malicious the recent reports alleging that Prince Mbata used security operatives to block the entry and exit routes of the community and tear-gassed residents to prevent a supposed fake coronation of one Kemakolam Onukogu, who lays claim to the Ezeship stool.

“The ridiculous claim that Prince Mbata used caterpillars and armed policemen to barricade entry and exit points of his community, Ngwoma-Obube, is a fabricated lie from the pit of hell.

“It is a calculated attempt to incite communal unrest, undermine the peace of our community, and tarnish the reputation of a man who has given so much to his people,” part of the statement read.


The community leaders emphasized that the alleged “blockade” was a result of an ongoing road construction project fully funded by Prince Mbata — a philanthropic project that has brought relief to commuters and residents of the community.

“The ring road, which cuts across Ulakwo-Ndiama, Ngwoma/Egbelu Obube, and leads back to Ulakwo Express Road, also creates an access road to the prestigious Seat of Wisdom Seminary. It is valued at over N3 billion awarded by the NDDC and single handedly funded by Prince Alex Mbata.

“It is laughable and shameful that a few misguided, selfish, and envious individuals would twist such a noble project into an act of aggression.”

“The presence of construction equipment at the road construction site is purely for road construction purposes and not a siege, as falsely reported,” part of the statement stated.



They further dismissed the claim that Prince Mbata had any hand in deploying policemen or tear-gassing villagers, stating emphatically that “Prince Mbata neither commands the Nigerian Police nor influences security deployments.”

“These allegations show the level of mental retardation of those peddling these lies and blackmail against Prince Mbata, because they do not know that a civilian or a private citizen cannot deploy security personnel.”

On the matter of the disputed Ezeship stool, the stakeholders declared that the individual in question, Mr. Kemakolam Onukogu, is not recognized by the community or the Imo State Government as an Eze-elect.

“There is no such title as Crown Prince or Eze-elect in Ngwoma-Obube without due process, and none was followed in this case,” the statement clarified.


The stakeholders also refuted allegations that Prince Mbata forged a community constitution or imposed a preferred candidate, describing it as another smear tactic.

They described the accusers, including one Greg Obioha and Francis Nkemdioha, as known purveyors of falsehoods. They are from Orlu zone and were recruited for such a hatchet job against an illustrious son of Owerri zone.

“One of them is facing mental health challenges, and the other is a professional blackmailer working for failed political actors, shamelessly recruited to tarnish the good image and towering profile of Prince Mbata,” they stated.

The community leaders called on the Inspector General of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate and prosecute the authors of these defamatory publications against Dr. Mbata.


“We will not sit back and allow desperate elements to destroy our community with lies and media propaganda. Prince Mbata is not the problem of Ngwoma-Obube — he is our biggest asset,” they declared.

They hailed Prince Mbata as a beacon of hope and development whose countless empowerment programs and infrastructural interventions have transformed lives across Owerri Zone and beyond.

“Those attacking him are doing so out of envy, jealousy, and hate. They are enemies of progress, and the people of Ngwoma-Obube will no longer tolerate their antics,” the statement added.

“As a final warning, we make it clear that any individual or group that continues to peddle lies and malicious propaganda against Prince Mbata will be declared persona non grata in Ngwoma-Obube.


“The peace and unity of our community are non-negotiable, and we shall not allow anyone — no matter how sponsored — to tear it apart,” the statement concluded.

A group of young professionals from Old Bende of Abia State has debunked claims that Governor Alex Otti has been endorsed for a second term by stakeholders from the area.

It said at no time did the people of the area convene a meeting to even discuss the politics of 2027 not to talk endorsing anyone for the governorship.

In a statement issued in Umuahia on Wednesday, the group, OLD BENDE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS, dismissed the purported endorsement of Otti by the member representing Aba North/ Aba South federal Constituency, Hon Mascot Ikwechegh. " as null and void " since it failed all democratic criteria.

In the statement signed by the President, Barr Chima Charles Ogbonnaya and the secretary, Chief Chidozie Okwara( Dike Ohafia), the group described those who participated in the event as imposters since they didn't have the mandate of Old Bende people to take such a weighty decision.

According to the group, Hon Ikwechegh abandoned his legislative duties of representing the people of Aba to dabble into a matter he clearly lacked the power and capacity to address.

It noted that in the first instance , the governorship should rightly be occupied by the people of Abia North in Old Bende come 2027 while a meeting is yet to be convened to deliberate on who the zone should support.

" What happened in Hon Ikwechegh's sitting room is a parody of the absurd. It was premature and presumptuous. If it were in the military, all those who attended that circus show should have been court marshalled, " the group averred.


The group fumed that apart from the fact that. Ikwechegh can not speak for Old Bende,it would be preposterous for Old Bende people to endorse anyone outside their own sons and daughters.

" Old Bende has so many sons and daughters who are qualified to run for Governor in 2027. We have Rt Hon Ben Kalu, the current number six man in the country, we have Dr Sampson Uche Ogah, a former Minister, we have Dr Philips Nto, a former Commissioner and one time Provost of Abia State College of Education, Technical, Arochukwu, We also have Chief Chikwe Udensi, Ete Igwe San, and Chief Chris Igwe among other prominent and eminent sons and daughters who can run and win the governorship in 2027", the group declared.

The Old Bende Yoing professionals deplored the use of traditional rulers as pawns in the political chess board, and warned them to desist from being used by politicians with selfish agenda.

According to them," while we acknowledge that there is hunger in the land, our traditional rulers should preserve their integrity and dignity by confining themselves to their cultural roles in the society "

The group advised Ikwechegh to also refrain from usurping the roles of Old Bende elders and concentrate on representing the people of Aba in the House of Representatives.

Said the group, " If Ikwechegh is genuinely committed to serving the people of Old Bende, he should consider contesting for the House of Representatives in Bende come 2027 and relinquish his current seat to the Ngwa people to promote fairness, equity and rotational leadership "

" Ikwechegh's current shenanigans, undemocratic and self centred political acts are unacceptable and a blatant disregard to democratic principles and autonomy of our region ,Old Bende ", the young professionals concluded

A pro-good governance advocacy group, Imo Vanguard for Equity and Development (Imo-VED), has raised strong concerns over what it described as, "growing threats to the life and safety of renowned humanitarian and respected scholar, Dr. Chima Amadi", against the backdrop of rising political intolerance and targeted intimidation across the country by the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC).

The group, in a strongly-worded statement on Thursday, in Owerri, drew a disturbing parallel between the recent threat issued by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, warning Mr. Peter Obi never to step foot in Edo without prior clearance, and the emerging climate of hostility toward individuals who have built mass popularity through people-oriented engagements.

“The threat to Peter Obi is a warning signal. In the same way, Dr. Chima Amadi’s soaring popularity and acceptance, built not on politics but on compassion and genuine service, appears to be unsettling entrenched political interests in Imo State. And this is why we are alarmed,” the statement said.

Amadi, a business mogul, humanitarian and empowerment advocate, has consistently rolled out large-scale interventions across the 27 LGAs of Imo State. His grassroots programs, ranging from youth and women empowerment, educational scholarships and medical outreach, to widow support and micro-enterprise grants for indigent rural women, have touched thousands of lives and positioned him as a beloved and indeed a preferred choice the highest office in the land, Governorship seat.

But as his influence expands, so too have the attempts to bring him down. According to Nze Albert Onyeulor, the group's spokesman, several coordinated efforts to silence or discredit Amadi, allegedly sponsored by political forces and government agents have failed.

“From blackmails to deliberate misrepresentations and a series of campaign of calumny, all targeted at tarnishing Amadi’s image and undermining his credibility, none has worked,” the group noted.

“Instead of slowing him down, these attempts appear to embolden him further. His confidence, grassroots engagements, and public acceptance are only growing stronger by the day. This has heightened fears that more desperate and dangerous machinations could be in the offing by those threatened by his rising profile.”

They warned that the political class in Imo State must not toe the path of intolerance and political witch-hunting, as seen in other parts of the country. Rather than feel threatened, the group argued, government should learn from Amadi’s style of inclusive and humane leadership.

“Dr. Amadi is not a threat to the people; he is a gift to them. The real danger lies in any attempt to harm or silence him.”

The group therefore issued a call to action, urging the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Police Force, and other relevant security agencies to take proactive steps in ensuring Dr. Amadi’s safety in light of recent developments.

“We urge the security agencies to monitor developments closely and guarantee Dr. Chima Amadi’s safety from political opponents and any overreaching government elements. A threat to his life is a threat to Imo’s future,” they declared.

In conclusion, the group emphasized that the era of silencing voices of compassion and conscience is over.

“Nigeria must not slide into a place where popularity derived from service becomes a target. The people see through the schemes and they are watching.”

While urging citizens' vigilance, the group also called for prayers for the safety of Dr. Chima Amadi, key political players and the entire citizens as the political activities intensify.

~ Receives Leadership Award


The Executive Director, Chief Operations and Information Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Sir Stanley Amuchie, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to human capital development, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, healthcare, education, and innovation.

Delivering the keynote address at the high-profile installation ceremony of Mr. Kelechi Anyanwu as Governor of Rotary International District 9142, Amuchie spoke passionately on the theme, “The Beacon of Hope: The Rotarians' Signature as Shining Lights to Millions in Despair.”

The colourful event, which held over the weekend in Owerri, drew a distinguished audience of over 1,500 Rotarians from the seven states that make up District 9142. It also witnessed the presentation of the Rotary Leadership and Leadership and Humanitarian Award to Sir Amuchie in recognition of his far-reaching contributions to social impact and human development.

In his address, Amuchie declared that Nigeria's greatest untapped asset is not its crude oil or minerals, but its people.

“Our greatest wealth is our people,” he said, stressing that with over 63% of Nigerians under the age of 25, the country holds a unique advantage in the global marketplace, if properly harnessed.

He commended the global rise of Nigeria’s creative and tech industries, citing names like Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, as well as innovative firms like Flutterwave and Paystack, as evidence of the country’s growing human capital.

“These young Nigerians are not only dominating global charts and markets; they are changing the narrative about Nigeria,” Amuchie noted.

He called on policymakers and Rotarians alike to reimagine national priorities and invest massively in human resources through tech innovation hubs, youth skills acquisition, and enterprise development.

“We must move away from dependency on natural resources and embrace our true strength—our people. Unlike oil, human capital appreciates with investment,” he emphasized.

As part of his proposal, Amuchie advocated for the replication of Lagos’ Yaba tech ecosystem across other regions, with hubs in Owerri, Enugu, Abakaliki, and Calabar, tailored to the specific strengths of each zone.

In his inaugural speech, newly-installed District Governor Rotarian Kelechi Anyanwu echoed Amuchie’s sentiments. He pledged to make health, sanitation, and youth leadership the core of his administration’s Rotary service year.

“Our outreach will focus on tackling preventable diseases and advancing public health in schools and rural communities,” he said, adding that Rotary must continue to serve as a “beacon of hope in uncertain times.”

Chairperson of the occasion, Dr. Nneka Ewenike, delivered a stirring moral call to Nigerians, advocating for a national culture of integrity.

“Rotary believes in character and fairness. If you are a true Rotarian, you won’t steal public funds. Nigeria needs legacy builders, not looters,” she charged.

The ceremony also marked a historic moment as Sir Stanley Amuchie was officially inducted into Rotary International, and Governor Anyanwu formally took the reins as District 9142 Governor.

This is the first time in 25 years that Imo State is hosting a District Governor’s installation.

BY RALPH EJIMKONYE

As the political temperature gradually rises in Imo State, attention is already shifting towards the high-stakes battle for the 2027 governorship election. Though Governor Hope Uzodinma’s tenure is expected to lapse by January 15, 2028, behind-the-scenes maneuverings and subtle campaigns have begun in earnest, setting the stage for one of the most contested races in the state’s democratic history.

In typical Nigerian fashion, while a few major contenders have publicly shown signs of interest in the coveted seat,.others are still mum, but maintaining a studious interest on unfolding developments. Evidently, defections and realignments, subterranean meetings, increased media visibility, and subtle endorsements, paint a clear picture of ambitious gladiators plotting their way to Douglas House.

*The Power of Incumbency: How Far Will Uzodinma’s Succession Plan Go?*

One of the most important questions going into the 2027 race is: Will Governor Hope Uzodinma anoint a successor? How far can his succession plan go? The precedent across Nigerian politics where incumbents handpick successors to protect their legacies is likely to repeat in Imo State.


However, unlike in the past, Governor Uzodinma’s endorsement, may carry more baggage than benefits. It is documented that his administration, despite reconstructing key federal roads and a few infrastructure interventions, has faced sharp criticism for a deteriorating security situation, decaying critical infrastructure, lack of transparency, and poor service delivery in key sectors such as education and healthcare and absence of autonomy of local government system, along many others.

Should Uzodinma endorse a candidate, without deliberate attempts to improve the current rating and perception of his administration, the label of being a “continuity project” could be a political albatross, especially among voters yearning for a fresh start.

Moreover, Imo’s political history is replete with failed succession attempts by outgoing governors, including Chief Achike Udenwa and Senator Rochas Okorocha – both unable to install their preferred candidates. The odds may not favor Governor Uzodinma either, especially if he continues to be seen as out of touch with public expectations. To many, it is too late to launder the negative impressions that have trailed his administration.

Still, one cannot ignore the Governor’s capacity at maneuvering complexities to achieving positive electoral outcomes. This underlines the importance of vigilance, fairness, and electoral integrity in 2027, if the contenders must lower the hedge on him.


THE CONTENDERS

*Senator Athan Achonu*:

Senator Athan Achonu, former Senator representing Imo North, known for his wealth and flamboyant campaign style, emerged as the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Imo State. Though he ran under the popular LP platform and claimed Peter Obi’s endorsement, Senator Achonu was unable to build genuine trust within the Obidient base or among the critical grassroots.

While his status as a major investor and his personal story of resilience (as Nigeria’s only one-armed senator) earned him some admiration, many critics argue that Senator Achonu represents the status quo, despite attempts to mix with the electorate, especially the indigent. His campaign was plagued by disconnected messaging and a top-down mobilization structure that failed to inspire confidence.


His political base remains thin and his alliance with Labour Party stakeholders appears fragile. Furthermore, many within the party are of the opinion that his emergence at the primaries over a more preferred Gen. Jack Ogulewe Rtd, as a setback for the party, going into the election.

Unless Achonu is able to reinvent his political strategy and shed the image of a billionaire parachuting into politics, his 2027 ambitions may be viewed more as vanity than vision.

*Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha*

Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha remains one of the most recognizable figures in Imo State politics. A former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and a briefly-serving governor before his controversial removal by the Supreme Court in 2020 after seven months in office, Ihedioha commands significant political experience and a strong network of allies within Nigeria’s traditional political establishment.


Having recently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ihedioha, who many believe showed signs of sterling performance as governor, is reportedly angling for a return to Douglas House. He brings to the table, decades of legislative and administrative experience, as well as an expansive contact base across the zones. However, his candidacy is not without significant liabilities.

One of the most damaging cracks in his support base is his fierce and highly publicized clash with the Obidient Movement during the 2023 elections. Ihedioha came under heavy fire after a widely circulated remark in which he dismissed Peter Obi’s presidential ambition. This statement enraged members of the Obidient Movement, who saw it as an affront not only to Peter Obi but to the broader Igbo aspiration for a Nigerian president of Southeast origin.

Though Ihedioha later attempted to walk back or clarify his comments, the damage had already been done.

That fracture widened again recently, with fresh altercations between Ihedioha and the Obidient bloc, again, over his alleged preference for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential race. This perceived alignment with northern political interests, especially in the face of growing calls for an Igbo presidency has led many to label Ihedioha as a political turncoat working against the Southeast’s collective interest.


However, in an attempt to.placate Obidients, Ihedioha, through his verified Facebook page, has pledged support for Peter Obi. However, key figures in the movement dismissed the statement as an attempt at self preservation, rather than a genuine support for Peter Obi. The recent brawl could prove fatal for his ambition, especially as Peter Obi and Obidient bloc remain enormously popular in Imo State.

Internally, Ihedioha’s prolonged battle for control of the PDP structure in Imo particularly his rift with Senator Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary of the PDP, culminated in deep divisions that eventually forced his exit from the party. This event cast doubt on his capacity to maneuver political intrigues.

While Ihedioha’s experience and name recognition remain assets, he faces mounting challenges in reconnecting with the grassroots and rebuilding trust with the politically active youth.

*Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi*

Currently representing Imo East Senatorial District, Onyewuchi has moved across party lines, from APGA to PDP to Labour Party and now to APC. While this might suggest strategic adaptability, it also reveals a lack of ideological grounding.

His legislative record, many suggest, is underwhelming, with few notable bills or impactful constituency projects. Moreover, despite his Owerri Zone origins, a region Governor Uzodinma has hinted will produce his successor, Senator Onyewuchi appears not to Garner the much needed grassroots momentum across the state and more importantly, internal APC support to emerge as the gubernatorial candidate. His frequent defections may also alienate a politically conscious youth population.

Recently, Senator Onyewuchi has increased his visibility in the media, appearing at key functions alongside Governor Uzodinma in a bid to curry the Governor’s support for the position.

*Senator Ifeanyi Ararume*

Senator Ifeanyi Araraume is a veteran of Imo politics, having contested multiple governorship elections and served as a two term senator. His stronghold in the Okigwe Zone and a deep grassroots network make him formidable, especially among older voters. He is believed to have deep pockets with rich contacts to spring surprises.

It is also believe that he has an axe to grind and may want to extract his own pound of flesh with the outgoing governor who many believe, worked assiduously to deny him a return to the senate following the death of Senator Ben Uwajumogu and also influenced President Muhammad Buhari to rescind his appointment as the Chairman, Board of NNPCL.

However, his long-standing rivalry with Uzodinma could diminish his chances of clinching the APC ticket. Also, he is seen by younger voters as part of the political establishment that has failed the state. Without the full machinery of a party behind him, his path to Douglas House remains uncertain, unless he switches to a vibrant political party that can muster the momentum to give the incumbent a good fight.

*Chief Ikedi Ohakim*

Former Governor Ikedi Ohakim (2007–2011) remains a household name in Imo State politics. A technocrat-turned-politician, he governed with a focus on infrastructural renewal and environmental reforms. Under his tenure, the Clean and Green initiative was launched to beautify Owerri and improve urban sanitation.

He later fell out with top political brass in the state. His brawl with the Catholic Church was also an incident he wished never happened. Despite the apology to the ex Governor by the key actors of that saga, Chief Ohakim has moved on and continued to push to be given a chance to complete the remaining constitutional term.

However, his return bid faces stiff headwinds. Controversies surrounding his tenure include accusations of high-handedness. While he commands respect among some elite blocs and seriously working strategically to reinvent his image and presence, his influence seems to have waned significantly, and his support base is no longer robust enough to mount a credible comeback without the backing of Governor Uzodinma, or a major political alliance.

*Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho*

A billionaire maritime expert and former Minister of Interior, Captain Iheanacho is known more for his private sector success than political showmanship. As the Chairman of Integrated Oil and Gas Ltd., he brings executive management experience and a reputation for discipline and competence.

The former Minister of Interior, an amiable personality, commands a good measure of respect, especially among the elite political class. Though many believe he should take the position of a kingmaker and father-figure, others say he still has a lot to offer.

Yet, his lack of a political structure and low visibility in local politics render him a long shot. His previous attempts at the governorship seat in 2015 failed to generate the much needed momentum and penetration. Unless he builds a stronger grassroots campaign, his chances remain slim, though he might emerge as a valuable technocrat cum statesman should the Imo Harmony Project, IHP, a political pressure group, which he currently leads to achieve the Owerri Zone Agenda throws weight behind him.

*Chief Charles Orie*

A philanthropist and former MD of ISOPADEC, Chief Charles Orie is quietly gaining ground, especially among rural dwellers and the economically disadvantaged. His humanitarian efforts, especially health outreach programs, bursaries and generosity have earned him grassroots loyalty.

Still, Orie has maintained a relatively low political profile and has not declared interest formally. His appeal lies in his simplicity and community connection, but without strong party backing or a strategic media narrative, his name may not resonate across the broader electorate.

His major setback is the fact that he hails from Orlu zone, as the incumbent governor, a zone that would complete twenty four years on the governorship seat of the state since 1999. Nevertheless, he could be a strong factor in making the next governor should he choose the godfather role.

*Senator Samuel Anyanwu*

As the 2027 governorship race in Imo State begins to take shape, one name that continues to resurface is Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu, National Secretary of the PDP. With a political career that has seen him become Council Chairman, State legislator and Senator, Anyanwu remains one of the few aspirants with an extensive resume and deep rooted name recognition across Imo State.

Despite his pedigree, the 2023 governorship election marked a severe blow to Senator Anyanwu’s public perception and political capital. As the PDP governorship candidate, he delivered what many have called the worst performance by the party in the state’s governorship history. His defeat at the polls was not just a loss, it was a major collapse that raised serious questions about his popularity, strategy, and leadership capacity.

Several factors were blamed, alleged lack of grassroots mobilization, uninspiring messaging, and a campaign that many felt was neither robust nor people- centered. Worse still, Senator Anyanwu has not adequately addressed or provided convincing explanations for the poor outing, leaving room for suspicion, discontent, and weakening trust within PDP faithful and the larger electorate, while some have alleged compromise.

An equally damaging chapter in his political career was his long standing and bitter rivalry with Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha within the PDP. Although Ihedioha has since left the PDP for the ADC, the wreckage from their political duel still longers. For Senator Anyanwu, the challenge now is how to rebuild bridges, consolidate fragmented support, and reassure aggrieved stakeholders that he can indeed lead a credible and winning party.

*Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi*

Perhaps the most exciting entrant is Dr. Chima Amadi. A globally respected scholar, successful entrepreneur and political strategist, Amadi brings a rare brilliance, compassion, policy expertise, a clean public record and clarity of vision that resonates deeply with Imolites, especially the youths, grassroots, political and working-class citizens.

As the leader of The Mazi Organization (TMO), a robust grassroots based movement, with presence across the 27 LGAs, he commands youth and women loyalty, especially for his humanitarian and philanthropic work, which have empowered a substantial number of youths and women, including students across the state.

What distinguishes Dr. Amadi from the rest of the pack, political watchers say, is not just his impressive academic and professional pedigree but his direct deep-rooted commitment to the people. Through his interventions, in partnership with faith-based and community groups, he has funded educational scholarships, provided healthcare assistance, supported small-scale businesses and directly empowered women and youths. These interventions, findings reveal, have improved living conditions of many families across the state.

TMO, considered the most vibrant citizen-driven political platform in Imo State has made deliberate penetration to many households. Its strategic mobilization, especially among young voters, artisans, market women, and students, has created a robust groundswell of support for Dr. Amadi’s ambition.

Crucially, Dr. Amadi’s message appears to be in sync with the Obidient Movement in Imo State, whose members see in him a worthy ideological ally. Much like Mr. Peter Obi, Dr. Amadi is admired for his compassion and people-oriented values. He has consistently advocated for prudent governance, education reform, infrastructure-driven development, and the protection of human dignity, tenets that strongly align with the yearning of Imolites.

In a state weary of the old order, Dr. Amadi’s trajectory, humility, and hands-on interventions, present a compelling alternative. His ability to connect directly with ordinary people, whether in markets, churches, town halls, or rural communities, reflects not just political strategy, but authentic empathy.

Additionally, Dr. Amadi, seen as the man to watch, enters the 2027 contest untainted by political scandals or partisan betrayals. This clean slate, combined with his grassroots appeal and robust war chest makes him one of the few aspirants who commands both credibility and financial capacity to spring surprises at the polls.

However, internal challenges remain. The need for strategic consensus-building within the Owerri Zone, long plagued by internal rivalry and ensuring sustained cohesion within TMO, Obidient Movement and the larger electorate will be critical to his success. His ability to convert his popularity into actual votes at the polling units, especially in a state with a history of electoral manipulation, will be the final test of his gubernatorial ascendance.

*Dr. Sam Amadi*

A respected intellectual and former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi was a governorship aspirant.on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2019 governorship election. He brings vast ideas, vision, and moral clarity to the race. However, his political strength remains largely theoretical.

He has yet to demonstrate electoral viability or build a grassroots network necessary for victory. His seeming lack of financial resources and absence of a solid party structure continue to hold him back. Unless he forms strategic alliances, Amadi risks remaining a celebrated public intellectual rather than a practical political contender.

*Chief Mike Ejiogu*

An Abuja-based billionaire real estate magnate, Chief Mike Ejiogu has made a bold entry into the 2027 Imo State governorship race. A political newcomer with a reputation in the business world, Ejiogu is best known as the President of Akuruo Ulo, a forum of Igbo entrepreneurs advocating for investment in the Southeast.

His entrance into the political fray has sent ripples across the Okigwe zone, a region hitherto dominated by political heavyweights like Senator Ifeanyi Araraume and former Governor Ikedi Ohakim. He seems to be offering a new path that appeals to the youth, private sector enthusiasts, and advocates of fresh air.

However, Chief Ejiogu is largely unknown within traditional political circles. He lacks the depth of public service experience or a history of political engagement in the state. In a terrain as tricky as Imo politics, this could be a major handicap. Without a tested political structure across the LGAs, particularly in rural areas, mobilizing support may prove difficult. Records suggest his inexperience in governance and public sector dynamics. Hence voters may question his readiness to navigate the complexities of governance.

*Mr. Jasper Azuatalam*

Mr. Jasper Azuatalam, a former commissioner and technocrat with a history in national pension administration, is visibly nursing a governorship ambition in 202. Articulate and intelligent, he is often praised in policy circles for his administrative competence.

However, Azuatalam has yet to demonstrate the political muscle or grassroots structure needed to mount a serious challenge. Despite his efforts to rebrand as a new-generation leader, many see him as only a product of the former President Muhammad Buhari administration, disconnected from the real socio-political fabric of Imo State.

Worse still, he lacks broad name recognition across the LGAs. For Azuatalam to be taken seriously, he would need to build formidable alliances, secure a credible platform, and engage directly with the people he hopes to lead, beyond social media.



Ejimkonye cam be reached via ralphejimkonye@gmail.com