By Bathram Uwandu.
As the 2027 governorship race in Imo State gathers momentum, stakeholders from Okigwe Zone are being called upon to unite behind former Governor Ikedi Ohakim, who is positioning himself for a political comeback to Douglas House after his 2007–2011 tenure.
Gov. Ohakim’s campaign hinges on completing “unfinished business” from his first term, during which he initiated infrastructural projects like road corridors, market complexes, and rural development programmes. Despite mixed reviews some praising his vision while others critiquing unfulfilled promises like the Agro-Nova Farm and Imo Airline his sustained grassroots engagement and alliances with youth groups and traditional leaders have kept his political relevance alive .
A coalition of supporters argues that Okigwe Zone’s four-year tenure under Ohakim was prematurely cut short in 2011, warranting another chance to “fulfill its eight-year mandate” . This sentiment is bolstered by Ohakim’s recent strategic tours across Imo communities, where he has reignited old alliances and pitched himself as a bridge between experience and innovation .
Pro-Ohakim voices, like ex-Commissioner Vitalis Ajumbe, urge Okigwe-Owerri collaboration to prevent Orlu from retaining power in 2027.
Ajumbe contends that supporting Ohakim for a “makeup term” would correct the 2011 “injustice” before power shifts to Owerri . However, Owerri leaders dismiss this as a delay tactic, insisting the Charter of Equity must prevail .
Ohakim’s fate hinges on Okigwe’s ability to consolidate support amid internal divisions and Owerri’s relentless equity campaign. As political analyst notes, “Okigwe’s unity is its strength, but Owerri’s moral argument is formidable” . For Ohakim’s to succeed will depend on balancing legacy appeals with contemporary demands for equitable power rotation a high-stakes game where the final whistle is still years away .
DG KIM 27
