2027 Imo Guber – Ohakim under intense pressure to Re- contest

DDM NEWS

Dr Ikedi Ohakim

As discussions around the 2027 gubernatorial race in Imo State continue to gain momentum, massive political pressure is mounting around the possible re-entry of former Governor Ikedi Ohakim.

A growing coalition of political stakeholders, community leaders, youth groups, women’s organizations, and traditional institutions from Okigwe Zone—his home region—have mounted what insiders describe as “relentless pressure” on the former governor to once again seek the state’s top office.

Dr. Ohakim, who served as governor from 2007 to 2011, is being urged to rejoin the race based on the principles of justice, equity, and the urgent need for stable, experienced leadership.

Advocates of his return—including the grassroots movement Bring Back Ohakim 2027—argue that true equity must begin with justice, especially given the controversial circumstances under which his first tenure was cut short.

They insist he deserves the opportunity to complete his interrupted mandate.

A prominent traditional ruler from Isiala Mbano, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated: “We have met as leaders of thought, and the consensus is clear. Ohakim remains Okigwe’s best chance—perhaps Imo’s best chance.

His constitutional limitation of just one term could appeal strongly to our Owerri brothers, who are increasingly impatient to produce the next governor.

Ohakim can stabilize the state, restore institutional integrity, and serve as a bridge between the truncated, evolving Imo Charter of Equity and a new, codified version that would enable power to rotate to Owerri Zone in just four years.

His antecedents, maturity, and non-partisan posture make him a natural compromise candidate for the entire state.”

This renewed call is unfolding against the backdrop of growing controversy over the so-called Imo Charter of Equity—a gentleman’s agreement originally designed to rotate the governorship among the three senatorial zones: Orlu, Owerri, and Okigwe.

Critics argue that the recent document lacked broad consultation, legislative backing, and public scrutiny.

Many in Okigwe maintain that the zone has not received full equity since Ohakim’s premature exit, while Orlu Zone has dominated the governorship for nearly two decades and, by January 2028, would have held power for a cumulative 24 years.

A youth leader from Onuimo added, “We have waited patiently. We supported others. Now, it is our turn. Ohakim is the only one with the capacity to unify the state, heal the divisions, and deliver results from day one—without needing time to learn on the job or being distracted by vendettas.

He would be focused solely on building a legacy in his final four years.”

Political analysts agree that Ohakim’s return to the political scene could significantly alter the 2027 landscape.

Widely respected for his cerebral approach to governance, he is remembered for launching the Clean & Green Imo initiative, pushing critical infrastructure reforms, and promoting economic stability during his time in office.

Many believe that his unfinished legacy deserves a second chance.

Although Dr. Ohakim has yet to make a formal declaration, sources close to him say he is “deeply humbled” by the overwhelming show of support but is currently more focused on supporting the incumbent administration to finish strong and leave a lasting impact.

A former commissioner under his administration stated: “His silence should not be mistaken for disinterest.

He is a statesman who understands the weight of leadership.

When the time is right, I believe he will respond to the call of duty.”

With the major political parties—the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and All Progressives Congress (APC)—expected to undergo significant internal realignments before 2027, Ohakim’s candidacy could enjoy broad, cross-party appeal.

Many see him as a principled, issue-focused leader with pan-Imo credibility.

As grassroots mobilization intensifies under the Bring Back Ohakim (BBO) 2027, all signs suggest that this movement may soon transition from agitation to concrete political action.

For Okigwe and beyond, the 2027 election may not just be another contest—it could be a referendum on justice, equity, governance legacy, and Imo State’s collective destiny.

By Dr. Ndubuisi Ugochukwu, a Development Economist, Management Consultant and an Orange Knowledge Programme (OKP) Scholar in Governance

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