…Concerns Rise Over Uzodimma’s Alleged Backing of Onyewuchi
by Christopher Akujuobi
As rumors swirl about Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi being Governor Hope Uzodimma’s anointed successor for the 2027 Imo State governorship election, concerned citizens are beginning to question whether Imo is being reduced to a mere political settlement.
Is this crucial state being used as a pawn to satisfy political godfathers, godmothers and powerbrokers, rather than prioritizing the state’s development and future?
Governor Uzodimma, having served two terms, has made significant strides in infrastructure and governance reforms in Imo. His administration’s efforts to rebuild the state’s economy and strengthen key sectors have been widely acknowledged. But now, with rumours of him tilting towards Onyewuchi to succeed him, many Imolites are worried that Uzodimma’s legacy may be sacrificed on the altar of political favors.
The core of the concern lies in Senator Onyewuchi’s track record, or lack thereof.
After sixteen years in the National Assembly, first in the House of Representatives and now in the Senate, Onyewuchi’s tenure has been largely characterized by underperformance. Imo people especially from his constituency and zone, argue that the senator has failed to deliver significant projects or meaningful development to his our people, let alone to the state. The fear is that endorsing such a figure as governor would be tantamount to placing Imo under the control of a “serial failure” rather than someone equipped to lead the state forward.
The bigger question Imolites are asking is: What motivates this endorsement? Is it truly based on merit and a desire to see Imo thrive, or is it a political transaction to placate a certain godmother and vested interests? Many believe the latter, suspecting that this move might serve to strengthen the grip of influential figures behind the scenes who seek to benefit from a weakened or compromised governor.
Historically, political godfathers have held sway over Nigerian politics, pulling strings and influencing key decisions to serve their own interests. However, in this instance, the spotlight is turning to the possibility of godmothers playing a key role in shaping Imo’s political future. The concern is that if Uzodimma handpicks Onyewuchi, it may not be for the benefit of the state but rather to satisfy these shadowy figures, thereby turning the governorship into a political settlement.
One vocal resident stated, “This isn’t about governance anymore; it’s about keeping political promises to those who helped them climb. We need someone who can lead, not someone who’s being installed to please godmothers and their networks.”
Moreover, Onyewuchi’s sudden flurry of public programs—social security schemes and healthcare initiatives, which have only appeared as the election approaches—are being dismissed by Imo people as half-hearted attempts to whitewash his long-standing ineffectiveness. Many are left wondering why he didn’t implement such initiatives during his many years in office. Instead of addressing key issues earlier, it appears that Onyewuchi’s interest in these programs only coincides with his interest in becoming governor.
The potential ramifications for Imo are significant. If Uzodimma goes ahead with endorsing a candidate many see as a political lightweight or a “serial failure,” the state could face a regression into the kind of poor governance that marked earlier administrations. Imo’s hard-fought progress may be undone, and the state could return to a period of stagnation, much like the controversial era of former Governor Rochas Okorocha, when personal interests and political favoritism took precedence over the public good.
As Imolites contemplate the possibility of Onyewuchi taking the helm, there is a growing call for Uzodimma to carefully consider the future of the state. If he truly intends to leave a lasting legacy, he must ensure that his successor is someone with the capacity, integrity, and vision to build on the progress made, not someone installed to repay political debts or appease powerful godmothers.
In the coming months, the decision over who will carry the torch of leadership in Imo will be pivotal. The people of Imo hope that the state is not treated as political currency but instead as a beacon of hope for continued progress. The question remains: Will Uzodimma rise above political settlements, or will Imo’s future be compromised in the name of political convenience?
