As the wheel of Imo State’s political landscape steadily turns towards the pivotal 2023 gubernatorial election, the air thickens with anticipation. Speculation swirls around the potential power players primed to contest for the governor’s seat on November 11, 2023—a date set in motion by the delayed oath-taking of incumbent Governor Hope Uzodinma. In this critical democratic exercise, the state’s political heavyweights will indeed prove their worth.
Governor Hope Uzodinma, a heavyweight of the All Progressives Congress (APC), embodies an intriguing case study. Despite his eligibility for re-election, a cloud of mystery envelops his political game plan. However, the ambiguity dissipates somewhat when one considers his decisive victory in the APC’s primaries, a victory allegedly cemented with a staggering multimillion-dollar war chest. His apparent readiness to go to considerable lengths to secure his party’s nomination underscores his aggressive approach to the impending electoral battle.
As the countdown to the gubernatorial election gathers pace, we find ourselves asking: How prepared are Imo State’s top parties for the 2023 contest? The drama continues to unfold.
All Progressives Congress (APC)
As the political drumbeats of the 2023 Imo State gubernatorial election grow louder, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party that currently holds the reins of power, finds itself embroiled in a maelstrom of public discontent and an escalating crisis of insecurity. Under the watch of incumbent Governor Hope Uzodinma, formerly a distinguished Senator, the party, though holding the fort of governance, is increasingly perceived as teetering on the precipice of a tarnished legacy, a perception that could critically jeopardise its prospects in the upcoming electoral bout.
In an early move to set the pace for the gubernatorial contest, the APC’s national leadership rolled out its primary election schedule in February 2022. The announcement, besides laying out the calendar, introduced a sizeable financial barrier for prospective contenders. The party pegged the cost of the expression of interest form at ₦10 million, while the nomination form bore a hefty ₦40 million price tag. Nonetheless, the party, perhaps in a bid to project an image of inclusivity and equity, offered some concessions. Candidates below the age of 40 were provided a 50% discount on the nomination form, and for women and individuals with disabilities, the fees were waived entirely. This early phase culminated in a rigorous screening exercise for aspirants, which took place between 24th and 26th of February 2023.
However, in spite of these seemingly inclusive and progressive strategies, the APC has been beset by a torrent of public dissatisfaction and skepticism. What was once considered a bastion of hope and progress, the party is now widely regarded among the citizens of Imo State as a symbol of disillusionment, frustration, and faltering promises. This stark shift in public sentiment is a result of deep-seated issues that have festered under the APC’s tenure: a pervasive insecurity crisis and leadership deficiencies that have been seen as bordering on neglect.
The escalating security situation in Imo State under the APC’s governance is particularly alarming. A detailed report by the Global Conflict Tracker delineates a disturbing upward trajectory in violent incidents over the past few years. The daily news cycle is rife with reports of armed attacks, rampant kidnappings, and inter-communal clashes — realities that have eroded the state’s tranquility and instilled a palpable fear among its residents. The 2022 report from the National Bureau of Statistics further underscores this grim reality, listing Imo State as one of Nigeria’s states with the highest crime rates. The escalating insecurity not only tarnishes the state’s image but also significantly diminishes the quality of life and economic potential of its residents.
Parallel to the pressing security issue, the APC’s leadership, both within the state and party, is facing a crisis of confidence. Governor Uzodinma, despite his substantial financial outlay to clinch the party’s primary ticket, has been dogged by a series of controversies and allegations, notably surrounding corruption and nepotism. There’s also a growing sentiment of disillusionment among the public, fueled by what many perceive as a lack of transparency and accountability in governance. This disillusionment, coupled with the sense of a leadership distanced from the realities and hardships of the people, has further eroded the party’s credibility and goodwill among the populace.
In essence, as the clock ticks towards the 2023 Imo State gubernatorial election, the APC, in spite of its political dominance and the formidable war chest at its disposal, finds itself navigating treacherous waters. The party is confronted with the formidable challenge of not only revamping its tarnished public image but also effectively addressing the pressing issues that have precipitated this wave of public disillusionment: rampant insecurity and perceived leadership failures. If these challenges remain unaddressed, the APC could find itself in a precarious position in the upcoming election, as the citizens of Imo State might be yearning for change, for a leadership that is not only responsive but also empathetic to their needs and aspirations.
Labour Party (LP)
In the intricate political chessboard of Imo’s 2023 Gubernatorial race, the Labour Party, albeit wielding significant popularity, finds itself ensnared in a labyrinth of internal conflicts, casting a long shadow over its readiness and unity ahead of the forthcoming election.
A fulcrum of the party’s current quagmire is the tussle over the rightful bearer of its gubernatorial torch. At the eye of this storm is Senator Athan Achonu, who finds himself embroiled in a legal and political fracas against Ikechukwu Ukaegbu, the latter having his candidacy upheld by the Bayelsa Federal High Court as the authentic Imo LP governorship candidate. Senator Achonu’s subsequent appeal, seeking to join the matter, was dismissed by the Appeal Court in Owerri on the grounds of procedural tardiness—it fell outside the mandated 14-day window for filing such applications.
This verdict by the Appeal Court has done little to douse the flame of contention, rather, it has added fuel, intensifying the feud between the two camps. It paints a picture of a party wrestling with internal discord at a time when unity and coherence should be the watchwords, a situation that could significantly impair its chances in the looming electoral contest.
Notwithstanding these challenges, the Labour Party can’t be summarily discounted. Its ascendance to political prominence, largely credited to its presidential candidate, Mr. Peter, who garnered a cult following in the last presidential election, is a testament to the party’s ability to rally massive support. However, the discord rattling its structure poses a profound threat to its ambitions in the Imo 2023 gubernatorial election.
Indeed, as we take a closer look at the top parties and their readiness for the Imo 2023 Gubernatorial race, the Labour Party presents a peculiar case. It’s a party with significant popularity and a record of demonstrated electoral appeal, yet it is hobbled by internal disagreements and uncertainty over its flagbearer. The question then becomes whether the Labour Party can overcome these hurdles and rally its ranks in time for a formidable showing in the coming electoral tussle. Until such unity is achieved, its prospects remain clouded in doubt, and the party’s readiness for the Imo 2023 gubernatorial race hangs in the balance.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP)
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State, a political behemoth with deep roots and significant influence, appears to be tottering on the precipice as the 2023 gubernatorial election draws near. The once dominant political force, known for its capability to give its competitors a run for their money, now grapples with existential threats that have left its structure wobbling and its ability to clinch the governorship seat questionable.
The seismic shocks threatening the party’s foundation emanate from recent high-profile defections. Seven key members of the Imo State PDP executive, including the State Deputy Chairman, State Secretary, State Youth Leader, State Publicity Secretary, State Woman Leader, State Treasurer, and the State Vice Chairman of the Orlu Zone, resigned from their positions and pitched their tents with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
This mass exodus has been attributed to the lure of substantial financial incentives and the promise of ‘juicy’ political appointments offered by the incumbent Governor Uzodinma, who himself is eyeing a second term in office. This, undoubtedly, is a significant blow to the PDP, which must now rally to rebuild and strengthen its leadership structure if it is to remain competitive.
The candidacy of Samuel Anyanwu, the party’s flagbearer for the gubernatorial election, further adds an intriguing twist to the unfolding drama. Despite being a popular figure, he is tasked with navigating the choppy waters of these internal crises and steering the party towards a successful election outing.
In the face of these challenges, the PDP finds itself locked in a battle for survival and relevance. Its strength and popularity in the state are undeniable, yet the party stands at a crossroads. It faces the daunting task of rallying its ranks, shoring up its structure, and reenergising its base to deliver a compelling electoral performance in the upcoming election.
As it stands, the road to the 2023 Imo gubernatorial election for the People’s Democratic Party is laden with hurdles. While the party’s history of political dominance and the popularity of its flagbearer offer glimmers of hope, the current instabilities cast a large shadow over its readiness for the upcoming political duel. The question now is: can the PDP weather this storm and reestablish its position as a formidable political force in Imo State? Only time will tell.
Action Alliance (AA)
Action Alliance (AA), an emerging political force in Imo State, has been wrestling with internal dynamics as it readies for the impending gubernatorial election in November 2023. With Major-General Lincoln Ogunewe (retd) serving as its standard-bearer, the party’s candidacy has been marred by controversy and an apparent lack of internal cohesion.
In what initially played out as an open-ended saga, the party’s leadership had categorically denied Major-General Ogunewe’s candidature, referring to his reported emergence as the party’s flag bearer as a fraudulent act. Comrade Ifeanyi Eze, the party chairman in the state, had publicly disavowed Ogunewe’s candidacy, leaving observers and party supporters alike in a state of uncertainty.
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However, the ripples seem to have somewhat settled, with Ogunewe still recognised as the AA’s gubernatorial candidate. It appears that a resolution might have been reached within the party’s echelons, though an undercurrent of instability lingers.
The choice of Major-General Ogunewe as a candidate has certainly stirred interest. His military background, marked by discipline and strategic acumen, lends him a distinct air of respect. This has played a significant role in catapulting the party to recent prominence. However, questions persist about his political savviness and his ability to mobilise grassroots support – a key determinant of electoral success in Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
While Ogunewe’s military pedigree commands respect, it does not automatically translate into political clout or assure a strong grip on the intricacies of grassroots politics. Therefore, while Ogunewe’s candidacy elevates the party’s profile, his ability to successfully steer the Action Alliance to a victory in the gubernatorial election remains unproven.
In light of these developments, the Action Alliance is under intense scrutiny. The controversies surrounding Ogunewe’s candidacy and the subsequent uncertainty cast a spotlight on the party’s internal workings and its ability to rally behind a unified front. Given the complex and often unpredictable nature of Nigerian politics, the party’s ultimate success hinges not just on the popularity of its candidate but also on its ability to resolve internal discord and present a united front. The countdown to the 2023 gubernatorial election thus becomes a litmus test for the party’s resilience and strategic effectiveness.
All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)
Within the dynamic and fluid terrain of Imo State’s political landscape, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) stands as an unwavering pillar of resilience and strength. The party’s strategic coherence, coupled with its comprehensive and well-structured political architecture, have positioned it as a political heavyweight, steadfast in its readiness for the 2023 Imo State gubernatorial election. At the helm of this electoral campaign is their flagbearer, Tony Ejiogu, a seasoned technocrat whose credibility and untarnished reputation illuminate the party’s electoral prospects.
The All Progressives Grand Alliance’s political evolution has been nothing short of impressive. The party ascended to the political fore during the 2011 gubernatorial elections when their candidate, Chief Rochas Okorocha, shattered expectations by ousting the incumbent Governor Ikedi Ohakim of the PDP with a commanding 15% lead. This pivotal victory signalled the dawn of the APGA’s political influence in Imo State.
Rather than resting on its laurels, APGA has demonstrated a consistent trajectory of growth and consolidation. The 2019 elections underscored the party’s formidable presence on the national stage as it clinched seven seats in the House of Representatives, a substantial leap from the two seats won in the 2015 elections. This performance testifies to the APGA’s resolute commitment to its political ascendancy.
Yet APGA’s appeal extends beyond its electoral accomplishments. Rooted in its ethos, as reflected in its poignant motto, “Be Your Brother and Sister’s Keeper”, APGA has succeeded in carving a distinctive niche for itself in the hearts of Imo residents. The party’s unwavering commitment to preserving national unity, advocating territorial integrity, and eradicating societal maladies such as poverty and corruption strongly resonates with the electorate, amplifying its mass appeal.
Adding further strength to APGA’s electoral standing is the profound sense of affinity it has fostered within the Ndigbo community. This sense of belonging, which is deeply ingrained in its core supporters, is anticipated to play a critical role in the forthcoming elections.
Tony Ejiogu, the party’s governorship candidate, embodies APGA’s commitment to integrity and efficient governance. His clean political slate and technocratic prowess serve as an unprecedented advantage for the party, differentiating it from the other contenders on the political battlefield. Ejiogu’s impeccable reputation, coupled with APGA’s resilient political machine, underscores the party’s significant potential for success in the upcoming gubernatorial election.
Considering its past triumphs, its compelling and resonant agenda, and the immense popularity of its candidate, APGA is meticulously prepared for the looming electoral duel. As the clock ticks closer to November 11, 2023, all eyes are trained on APGA, waiting to witness how the party capitalizes on its unique strengths to achieve a decisive victory in the Imo State gubernatorial election.
