#ImoDecides: Key things to know as Hope Uzodinma battles for re-election
Imo State, located in the southeastern part of Nigeria, is a dynamic state known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant political landscape.
This profile delves into various aspects including population, historical information, political parties, and major tribes, and highlights the top three aspirants in the upcoming November 11 governorship election.
Population and Creation
According to the most recent census conducted in 2006, Imo State has a population of approximately 4.8 million people. The state was created on February 3, 1976, during the military administration of General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, with Owerri as its capital. Imo State had 27 local government areas.
Former Governors and Political Parties
Since its creation, Imo State has witnessed the leadership of various governors from different political parties. The following is an overview of the state’s governors and the political parties they belong to, highlighting their respective periods of service.
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- Sam Mbakwe – Democratic Party of Nigeria (now defunct) – 1979-1983
- Evan Enwerem – National Republican Convention – 1992-1993
- Achike Udenwa – People’s Democratic Party – 1999-2007
- Ikedi Ohakim – People’s Progressive Party (later joined the PDP) – 2007-2011
- Rochas Okorocha – All Progressives Congress – 2011-2019
- Emeka Ihedioha – People’s Democratic Party – 2019-2020
- Hope Uzodinma – All Progressives Congress – 2020-present
Major Political Parties
In Imo State, as in Nigeria, the major political parties are the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP). These parties have played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the state through various elections and governance.
Top Three Candidates for the November 11 Governorship Election
The upcoming November 11 governorship election in Imo State has generated significant interest and anticipation among the populace. As of now, the top three aspirants vying for the position are:
- The sitting State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, is seeking reelection, relying on incumbency advantages and financial resources.
The APC’s limited popularity in the southeast, coupled with discontent over recent incidents, may impede Uzodinma’s chances, making his reelection precarious.
- PDP’s Samuel Anyanwu, a former national secretary, emerges as a strong contender in the election against Uzodinma.
Despite losing the 2019 PDP primary, residents see him as a viable alternative.
Anyanwu’s strained relationship with Ihedioha affects his acceptance, amid the lingering perception of orchestrating Ihedioha’s withdrawal.
- Athan Achonu, a prosperous businessman, gained political prominence in 2015 when elected to the Nigerian Senate for Imo North District under the PDP.
However, his victory was short-lived as a Court of Appeal voided his election, leading to a rerun won by Ben Uwajumogu of the APC. Subsequently, Achonu withdrew from active political engagement until recently, when he defected to the LP.
In April, he secured the party’s governorship candidate, marking his return to the political arena after a period of relative inactivity since the 2015 setback.
Conclusively, Imo State’s multicultural demographics, historical evolution, and vibrant political landscape make it a unique state within Nigeria.
As the November 11 governorship election approaches, the state eagerly anticipates the emergence of its next leader, who will navigate the challenges and shape the future of Imo State.
