by Mike Edeji
As the race for the 2027 Imo State governorship election gathers momentum, political zones are already strategizing to produce the next leader of the state.
Yes, make no mistake about it, despite their long stay in office, Orlu still has their eyes trained on that seat.
For Ndi Imo, particularly the Owerri zone, the stakes are high, with the need to consolidate their influence and provide leadership that is both credible and effective.
Amid the growing list of aspirants, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha stands out as the most experienced, tested, and trusted candidate Owerri zone can offer.
Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihediohaβs track record speaks volumes. As a former Governor of Imo State, he brought stability, accountability, and a renewed sense of purpose to governance during his tenure. His achievements, even within a short period, include significant improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and civil service reform.
Ndi Imo still remember his administration for its focus on due process and transparent governance, setting him apart as a leader who delivers on promises.
Before serving as governor, Ihedioha had an illustrious career as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, where he championed national policies while advancing the interests of Imo State.
His political acumen and dedication to public service are unparalleled, making him a dependable figure in the stateβs political landscape.
With Okigwe and Orlu zones actively positioning their candidates for the 2027 election, Owerri zone cannot afford to gamble.
The stakes are higher than ever, and Owerri must rally behind a candidate with the experience, capacity, and broad acceptance needed to lead Ndi Imo to greater heights.
Okigwe zone, despite its smaller voting population, is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to produce the next governor.
Their claim through former governor Dr. Ikedi Ohakim has its own merits and arguments.
Orlu zone like I stated earlier, is also fielding multiple candidates, further complicating the political dynamics.
Against this backdrop, Owerri zone must rise above internal divisions and unite behind a candidate who has been tested and trustedβRt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha.
Beyond his credentials, Ihedioha has proven himself a unifying figure. He has consistently demonstrated an ability to build bridges across political divides, ethnic groups, and regions.
Ndi Imo need a leader who can heal the wounds of the past and foster unity, especially in a state that has experienced political turbulence.
Owerri zone holds a strategic position in the governorship race. Failure to field a strong, widely accepted candidate could see the zone sidelined again. While other zones continue to jostle and strategize, Owerri has a golden opportunity to consolidate its position by supporting Ihedioha, whose governance experience and public trust make him the best candidate to lead Ndi Imo.
Gambling on untested candidates or those with questionable antecedents could jeopardize the zoneβs chances of producing the next governor.
Ndi Imo deserve a leader who can hit the ground running, and Ihedioha fits that bill perfectly.
For Ndi Imo and Owerri zone, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha remains the best choice for the 2027 governorship election. His proven track record, ability to unite diverse interests, and unwavering commitment to good governance make him the most reliable candidate Owerri zone can present.
At this very critical point, Owerri must prioritize competence and credibility over experiments. Ndi Imo cannot afford to gamble. They need a tested and trusted leader, and Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha is that leader.