Imo 2027: Hon. Uchechi Smart Akandu Urges Constructive Dialogue Over Governorship Zoning Debate

Honourable Uchechi Smart Akandu calls for Unity, Strategic Planning Among Owerri Zone Stakeholders…

Honourable Uchechi Smart Akandu, a frontline political figure from Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area, has weighed in on the ongoing discussions surrounding the zoning of the Imo State governorship ahead of the 2027 elections.

Reacting to recent controversies that trailed Governor Hope Uzodimma’s comment on zoning during a plenary session at state house with Tranditinal council briefing, Hon. Akandu called for calm and clarity, stating that the governor’s remarks were misunderstood by some stakeholders, particularly from the Owerri zone.

“The Governor did not make any divisive statement,” Hon. Akandu said. “He was simply being civil and strategic. His emphasis was on continuity of good governance, not on where the next governor should come from. It’s unfortunate that some persons have misinterpreted his statement to suggest marginalization.”

According to Akandu, the governor’s neutral stance is a show of leadership maturity, aimed at fostering unity rather than triggering tension across geopolitical zones in the state. “Imo State is not for any particular zone. As a sitting governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma is conscious of the weight his words carry. He has no intention to create discord among Imolites,” Akandu noted.

He advised political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, and stakeholders from the Owerri zone to begin strategizing by identifying and projecting a credible candidate capable of leading the state.

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“This is the time to consolidate, not to complain,” Hon. Akandu emphasized. “Owerri zone leaders and their allies should rally behind a competent aspirant, build his or her profile, and present such an individual to other zones in a bid to secure broad-based support. That is how political success is built—not through entitlement or misinterpretation.”

Citing a political precedent, Akandu referenced the fallout from former Governor Rochas Okorocha’s failed attempt to impose his son-in-law as successor. “We all saw how that ended. Imo people deserve transparent, peaceful, and credible leadership transition, not a repeat of politically chaotic succession struggles,” he stated.

Hon. Akandu, who has declared his ambition to run for the Imo State House of Assembly in 2027, reiterated the need for inclusive governance, strategic planning, and mutual respect among all zones in the state.

“Let us focus on capacity and competence, not just geography. Our priority should be on who can deliver for Imo people,” he concluded.

God bless Imo State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

— Hon. Uchechi Smart Akandu