Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has vowed to prevent any form of “hostile takeover” of power in Imo politics, stressing that justice, inclusion and consensus remain key to sustaining peace in the State.
Speaking Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at a meeting with the Imo Elders Council at the Government House Banquet Hall in Owerri, the Governor said lessons from the 2020 crisis when he came into office underscored the dangers of political exclusion.
He noted that a panel led by Emeritus Catholic Archbishop Anthony Obinna found marginalisation to be a major trigger of instability.
“Anyone denied justice may not be committed to peace. We will eliminate any type of hostile takeover by building consensus among ourselves”, Uzodimma maintained.
While receiving the report of the Imo Elders Council on “Charter of Equity”, he described the Elders Council as “the conscience of the State”, explaining that it was established by law to guide governance beyond any administration.
The Governor disclosed plans to amend the law to strengthen the Council’s authority, including sanctioning members who resort to deliberate misconduct.
On the Imo Charter of Equity report, Uzodimma reiterated that it takes into consideration fair distribution of key political offices across the three senatorial zones, urging stakeholders to respect zoning arrangements and avoid divisive politics.
He also reaffirmed the State’s alignment with the Federal Government, acknowledging the support of President Bola Tinubu.
The Governor expressed optimism that adherence to equity and justice would guarantee stability and a smooth political transition in Imo State.
“Charter of Equity has come to stay. Listen to the voice of reason and believe in the Charter of Equity. Work with the Federal Government and support the President. And go home and pray and allow God to do the remaining”, Uzodimma said.
The Governor promised to consult further with the leadership of all the three zones that comprise Okigwe, Owerri and Orlu to deepen the consensus that will lead to the political stability that has eluded Imo State over the years.
He assured the Elders Council that their job will not end with his administration as the body will continue to advise future Governors in Imo State.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Imo Elders Council, HRH Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, commended Governor Uzodimma for promoting unity in the State, noting that sustainable development can only be achieved when all regions progress together.
Ilomuanya urged that the Imo Charter of Equity should go beyond rhetorics and be implemented through fair appointments, balanced project distribution and equal opportunities across the State’s zones.
He described the Charter as a commitment to building an inclusive Imo where no area feels marginalised and every citizen can aspire to leadership without discrimination.
He further advised the Governor to remain guided by the principles of fairness, justice and peace embedded in the Charter.
The meeting ended with prayers for continued peace, unity and progress in Imo State, alongside a renewed call for collective responsibility in advancing the State’s development agenda.
Present at the event were the Deputy Governor of the State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru and her husband, Barr. Chukwuma Ekomaru; former Deputy Governor, Lady Ada Okwuonu, the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, some stakeholders and opinion leaders of the State and members of the State Executive Council.
2027: Lagos Lawmaker Seeks Election For Third Time
The lawmaker representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Adewale Adedeji, yesterday declared intention to contest for the position for the third time.
Adedeji made his intention known during a meeting with members of the Ajumose Co-operative Society in Ifako-Ijaiye.
The meeting took place at the lawmaker’s constituency office in Ifako-Ijaiye.
The News Agency of Nigeria ,NAN, reports that Adedeji, who is the Majority Leader in the assembly, was first elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023.
Adedeji highlighted his achievements in office and reaffirmed his commitment to further development for his constituency.
He said that his decision to contest again was driven by the need to consolidate on the gains so far recorded.
He cited his contributions in education and infrastructure development, youth empowerment and healthcare in his constituency.
“Over the years, we have remained committed to delivering impactful representation.
“On education, we have distributed over 8,300 free JAMB forms as well as GCE and NECO forms.
“Currently, we have over 180 students on scholarships across tertiary institutions in the country”, he said.
Adedeji added that he had facilitated rehabilitation of more than 80 roads in his constituency.
“Our widows’ empowerment programme and healthcare initiatives, including provision of over 2,250 free eyeglasses under the JIGI JAH initiative, have been impactful.
He gave the assurance that he would continue to protect the interest of his constituency.
The lawmaker also called on members of his constituency to continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
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