Tension is mounting in Imo State as concerns grow over the suspected ambition of Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, the son-in-law of former Governor Rochas Okorocha, to present himself for the 2027 governorship election. Nwosu, who hails from the Orlu zone, is being speculated to be preparing to contest for the state’s highest office, a move that has sparked outrage and resentment among leaders of the state, particularly from Owerri and Okigwe zones.
For decades, Orlu zone has dominated Imo State’s political landscape, with figures like Okorocha, who served as governor for eight years, and Chief Achike Udenwa, who also held the office for two terms, further cementing their grip on power. The current governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, is also from Orlu zone and is set to complete his second term in 2027. Together, these leaders have held the reins of power in the state for an overwhelming 24 years. In contrast, Okigwe zone has held the governorship for a mere four years, while Owerri zone’s representation has been limited to just seven months since the return to civil rule in 1999.
The political imbalance has sparked growing frustration in both Okigwe and Owerri zones, where leaders are voicing their concerns over the possible extension of Orlu's political dominance which Nwosu’s suspected ambition represents. In recent weeks, murmurs of outrage have emerged from both areas, with some, who spoke to our reporter, warning of serious consequences if the power imbalance continues.
Chief Nduka Obasi, a prominent leader from Owerri zone, expressed his anger over the situation, saying, "It is utterly disrespectful to the people of Owerri and Okigwe zones for Orlu to continue monopolizing power. We have endured this for far too long, and we will not sit idly by while another son from Orlu attempts to succeed the current governor. This is our time, and the political structure of the state must reflect the principles of equity and fairness."
Obasi’s sentiments were echoed by Mrs. Ngozi Okafor, a leading political figure from Okigwe zone, who described the situation as "a political travesty." "How long will Okorocha and his family members continue to rule us? It’s been more than two decades of Orlu zone domination. This state belongs to all of us, and it is only fair that we also have a voice in the governorship race," she added, highlighting the feelings of marginalization in her zone.
Meanwhile, a pressure group, Amaala Owerre, has raised alarms about what they perceive as an unfair advantage enjoyed by the Orlu zone. "If Uche Nwosu runs, it will be an insult to the people of Owerri zone. For once, we must prioritize a fair rotation of power, which will allow all zones to have an equal stake in the governance of Imo State," said a senior official of the group, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. "We are prepared to take action to ensure that our voices are heard," he threatened.
On the other hand, political observers in the state have noted the growing dissatisfaction among the populace over this suspicion, with many in Owerri and Okigwe zones warning that such desperation for power by the Okorocha dynasty can plunge Imo into crisis.
As the 2027 governorship election draws closer, the political tensions are likely to intensify. What started as murmurs of discontent is now shaping into a full-blown political crisis, with leaders in Owerri and Okigwe zones vowing to stand firm in their opposition to the continued dominance of Orlu in the state's political affairs. How this simmering crisis will unfold remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the battle for the soul of Imo has begun!
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