There have been growing rumors suggesting that Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi might emerge as Governor Hope Uzodimma’s chosen candidate for the 2027 Imo State governorship election.
For many Imolites, this speculation raises important questions about Uzodimma’s intentions and the future of the state.
Does the governor, after eight years in office, truly care about leaving behind a lasting legacy for the people of Imo, or is this rumored choice a political maneuver that risks undoing the progress the state has made under his administration?
Some people have hinted that the choice of Onyewuchi could be as a political settlement for some political godfather or godmother.
Who knows?
Governor Uzodimma has demonstrated a strong commitment to the development of Imo State since taking office. His administration has focused on infrastructure, economic growth, and restoring public confidence in governance. However, if Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi is indeed the best candidate Uzodimma can offer as his successor, many fear that the governor’s achievements may be overshadowed by a less promising future for the state.
Senator Onyewuchi’s track record in public service has been met with widespread criticism. After spending eight years in the House of Representatives and nearly completing another eight years in the Senate, many constituents from the Owerri zone have expressed disappointment with his performance. Despite occupying critical positions in the National Assembly for over a decade, Onyewuchi’s tenure has been marked by a lack of tangible achievements, leaving many to question whether he is the right person to lead Imo State.
As one concerned Imolite remarked, “The thought of Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi as governor sends cold chills down my spine. This is a man who, for sixteen years, showed no real initiative in improving the lives of his constituents. Only now, as he eyes the governorship, has he suddenly started rolling out white-washed, the-more-you-look-the-less-you-see programmes in an attempt to win over the electorate.”
Critics argue that Onyewuchi’s recent initiatives, which include social security and medical insurance programs, are little more than political gimmicks aimed at securing votes. They question why, after years of limited impact, he has now decided to prioritize these issues. Many see his actions as not only too little, too late, but deceitful and fear that his candidacy could result in a return to the kind of governance that characterized the tenure of former Governor Rochas Okorocha, where development stalled, and corruption flourished.
Moreover, Imo people especially those from Owerri his zone, point out the lack of significant projects he attracted to his constituency during his time in the House of Representatives. His first four years as a senator have also failed to produce meaningful results for Imo State. He has been severally challenged to show projects he attracted aside from giving away Okada motorcycles as empowerment.
In an era where development is paramount, many wonder why a “serial failure” should be considered the best option to succeed Governor Uzodimma.
Imolites are now faced with an important choice as the 2027 election approaches. The possibility of Onyewuchi becoming the next governor has sparked debate about the future trajectory of the state. Many fear that if Uzodimma endorses Onyewuchi, it could be a step backward for Imo, undoing the governor’s efforts to move the state forward.
“If Governor Hope Uzodimma is really considering Onyewuchi,” an Uratta man we spoke to stated. “Then he should stop wasting his time building roads. He should just go and eat money and prepare to avoid EFCC after because if Onyewuchi emerges Imo governor, all these achievements of Governor Hope Uzodimma would be a waste. Uzodimma should back somebody with the same vision as he has for Imo. It doesn’t matter the person or party, if he loves Imo as I see he does, he should let the people choose their governor. Even if they person should join APC later no problem. For me, party doesn’t matter, the person at the helm of affairs is all that matters. A good person no matter the party would do a good job.”
As the political landscape in Imo evolves, the people are watching closely, hoping that Uzodimma’s final decision will reflect his genuine desire to leave a positive legacy for the state.
The governor has an opportunity to solidify his reputation as a leader who truly cared for Imo by backing a candidate with a proven track record, not one mired in controversy and criticism.
For Imo State, the next election is not just about who becomes governor; it is about ensuring that the progress of the last eight years is preserved and that the future is entrusted to capable hands.
