Imo stakeholders urge Ihedioha, Amadi, Anyanwu to contest Owerri Senatorial seat
A coalition of political stakeholders and pressure groups in Imo, particularly from the Owerri zone, has urged Emeka Ihedioha, former governor; Chima Amadi, a technocrat; and Samuel Anyanwu, senator, to
A coalition of political stakeholders and pressure groups in Imo, particularly from the Owerri zone, has urged Emeka Ihedioha, former governor; Chima Amadi, a technocrat; and Samuel Anyanwu, senator, to contest the Owerri senatorial seat.
The stakeholders said their participation in the senatorial race is critical to the zone’s chances in the 2027 governorship election.
The call is part of growing political realignments ahead of the November 2027 governorship poll in the state.
Stakeholders said the outcome of the senatorial election would influence the balance of power and determine the strength of opposition against the All Progressives Congress (APC).
They described the Owerri senate seat as a strategic platform for launching a governorship bid.
Pius Nwokedi, a member of the Owerri Mandate Group (OMG), said the seat would shape the zone’s political future.
“The Senate position for this season, whether anybody likes it or not, is a critical pathway to winning the governorship election for Owerri zone,” he said.
“Whoever secures that mandate will gain the visibility and momentum to mount a serious governorship challenge later in the year.”
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Several groups, including the Owerri Zonal Equity Movement (OZEM), Nmegbu Adinma Forum (NAF), and Concerned Owerri Stakeholders Forum (COSF), have also backed the call.
The groups said the zone must be strategic in its political decisions to take advantage of zoning arrangements.
“Owerri Zone cannot afford to gamble at this critical time,” OZEM said in a statement.
“We need tested leaders who can unify the zone and inspire confidence across Imo State.”
“We believe that Dr. Chima Amadi, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, and a few others possess the capacity to deliver on this mandate.”
Another group, Oganihu Owerri, described the senatorial bid as key to the zone’s political strategy.
“The Owerri Senate seat is the masterstroke for launching a credible Imo governorship project in 2027,” the group said.
“Any serious contender must first secure that platform to build momentum, consolidate support, and project strength across the state.”
Basil Agoha, a stakeholder, said the strategy is necessary to compete with the ruling party.
“This is about winning the senate first to position for the epic battle because whoever expects the APC to cede power to Owerri zone without a fight is joking,” he said.
“Someone with mass appeal, the war chest, and contacts must emerge as senator; otherwise, we could be dribbled.”
Ihedioha, a former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, is said to have strong grassroots support.
Amadi is seen by some stakeholders as a reform-oriented figure with appeal among young people and professionals.
Despite the pressure, the potential aspirants have not publicly declared interest in the race.
Sources, however, said consultations are ongoing ahead of possible announcements.
