From Everest Ezihe, Owerri
The recent statement credited to Imo State Elders Council asking Governor Hope Uzodimma to ensure that his successor will be a man or woman of Owerri senatorial zone extraction as stated in Imo Charter of Equity have been accepted by the leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Owerri senatorial zone describing the move as a strategic step towards equity, stability, and political balance in the State.
The endorsement was articulated at a high-level Owerri Zonal Leadership Meeting of the party, held on Monday at Ewaiyi Event Center, New Owerri.
The well attended strategic meeting brought together key stakeholders to review the political party affairs and reinforce internal cohesion ahead of the 2027 succession cycle.
Addressing participants, the APC Owerri Zonal Chairman, Hon. Justus Ogu, praised the Elders’ resolution as both courageous and forward-looking.
He reiterated that the decision aligns with the principles of fairness and inclusiveness as justified by the State’s evolving Charter of Equity, and commended leaders across other zones for their support and understanding.
Ogu emphasized that such cross-zonal consensus has strengthened trust and fostered a greater sense of unity across the State.
He also acknowledged the growing cooperation among leaders within Owerri Zone, urging them to sustain the momentum despite political differences.
The Zonal Chairman also cautioned against actions capable of undermining the opportunity now before the zone, stressing that discipline, responsibility, and strategic alignment would be critical in consolidating the gains made.
On the question of succession, the zonal chairman made it clear that Owerri leaders are prepared to align with the eventual choice of Governor Uzodimma, in consultation with party stakeholders.
According to him, “collective interest must supersede individual ambitions as the process unfolds”.
The meeting attracted prominent figures within the party, including the Deputy Governor, Chinyere Ekomaru, lawmakers at both national and state levels, party executives, local government officials, and ward leaders from across the zone.
Participants unanimously reaffirmed their commitment to unity and pledged to work collaboratively to sustain the APC’s electoral dominance in Owerri Zone and across Imo State.
