Leaders, stakeholders, and distinguished sons and daughters of Okigwe Senatorial Zone gathered on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at Umueze 1, the country home of the zone’s apex leader and convener, Chief Tony Chukwu, in a historic meeting that blended solemn spiritual reflection with purposeful political engagement.
Convened during the sacred Lenten season, the assembly focused on Okigwe Zone’s collective aspiration to produce the Governor of Imo State in 2028, upon the completion of the tenure of His Excellency, Hope Uzodinma.
In his opening remarks, Chief Chukwu described the timing of the meeting as profoundly symbolic. He noted that Lent represents sacrifice, introspection, and total dependence on God, stressing that the essence of the gathering was to call on Ndi Okigwe—both at home and in the diaspora—to commit the 2028 governorship project into God’s hands. To this end, he proposed a three-day fasting and prayer programme scheduled for Wednesday, February 25 through Friday, February 27, 2026.
The proposal received unanimous endorsement from those present, who affirmed that Okigwe is well-positioned to produce the governor in 2028 and declared that divine guidance remains central to the realization of the aspiration.
Former Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, expressed profound appreciation to Chief Chukwu for his steadfast commitment to the Okigwe cause over the years. He called for unity among all sons and daughters of the zone and underscored the importance of sincere prayers, affirming his firm belief in God’s faithfulness.
The gathering also commended Governor Uzodinma for his leadership, infrastructural development, and goodwill toward Okigwe Zone.
Key resolutions adopted at the meeting included prayers for God to inspire Governor Uzodinma to support Okigwe’s 2028 bid; divine intervention to foster understanding and backing from Owerri and Orlu zones; strengthened unity among Okigwe people; a change of heart for anyone working against the collective interest of the zone; and a renewed commitment to seeking God as the ultimate source of strength and success for the project.
A motion for the adoption of the resolutions was moved by Rt. Hon. Miriam Onuoha and seconded by Rt. Hon. Chiji Collins, after which they were unanimously approved.
The spiritual highlight of the gathering was an exhortation and prayer session led by clergy from Okigwe Zone, reinforcing the solemn and faith-driven tone of the meeting.
Among the dignitaries who addressed the gathering were Chief Cosmas Iwu, Secretary to the Government of Imo State; HRM Eze Dr. Oliver Ohanwe, Chairman of the Okigwe Global Elders Forum (OKGEF); Chief Longers Anyanwu; Dr. Princess Gloria Akobundu; Hon. Barr. Chris Okewulonu; HRH Eze Dan Emeronye; HRH Eze Emmanuel Ibech; HRH Eze Ngozi P. Uwalaka; Rt. Hon. Acho Ihim; Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri; and His Grace, Bishop Athan Azubuike.
Also in attendance were Her Excellency Barr. Chioma Ohakim; Prof. Ossy Nwebo; Hon. Ifeanyi Agwu, PhD; Ezechi Chukwu, PhD; Prof. Chiedozie Eze; Chief Peter Orji; Hon. Sam Osuji; Ozo Barr. Babatunde Charles Ezekwem; Mrs. Chikodi Emenalom; Rt. Hon. Paul Emeziem; Hon. Greg Owuamanam; Hon. Ben Ozoemenam; Hon. Ozo Obinna Ogwuegbu; Hon. Chuck Chuckuemeka; Chief Regis Uwakwe; Dr. Uche Ewelike; Dr. Lady Love Ineh; Hon. Oluchi Glory Okeagu; Hon. Uche Anyanwu; Rev. Divine Eches, PhD; Chief Ethelbert Nwachukwu; Hon. Chikwem Onuoha; Sir Bright Nwachukwu; Hon. Simon Ebegbulem, and many others.
The event was further graced by respected traditional rulers, members of the clergy, political stakeholders, community leaders, and numerous other distinguished sons and daughters of Okigwe Senatorial Zone.
The gathering concluded on a resounding note of unity, faith, and renewed determination, as leaders reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing the 2028 governorship aspiration through love, solidarity, strategic engagement, constructive dialogue, and unwavering trust in God.
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