By Chioma Ugboma
Chief Obioma Akagburuonye, an Imo 2027 governorship aspirant, says Gov. Hope Uzodimma’s successor must be someone with a proven record of integrity.
The governorship aspirant stated this in an interview with newsmen in Lagos on Sunday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that more than 12 people across various political parties and Local Government Areas in Imo, have declared interests to succeed Uzodimma in the build up to 2027 governorship election in the state.
The aspirant told newsmen that: “though am not a politician, I am a professional in politics with verifiable integrity, achievements, and I believe am the best man for the job.
“I am a Lawyer and and I believe that Uzodimma should hand over the baton to the best person to continue with his legacies.
“Imo state is not an easy one to govern. Over the years, there had been controversies of integrity. Uzodimma has set the pace that needs the right man to fit in.
“I am that man. Imo state has been trailed by governance below expectations before Uzodimma’s administration.
“What the people need now is someone with integrity, who can continue with Uzodimma’s legacies.
“The present administration in Imo state has surpassed itself in infrastructural development and empowerment of the people. Uzodimma’s successor must be ready to continue with it,” he said.
Speaking on the controversial governorship zoning in Imo, Akagburuonye reiterated that it is the turn of Owerri North Senatorial Zone.
According to him, Orlu Zone, which produced former governors Achike Udenwa , Rochas Okorocha and Uzodimma, have had their fare share.
“Okigwe zone also produced former governor Ikedi Ohakiim, leaving out Owerri zone.
” There has been controversy over Okigwe zone having another four years to complete Ohakim’s tenure. This argument is far fetched because Owerri is yet to have any term. We must be allowed this time.
“If Uzodimma makes true his pronouncement that it is the turn of Owerri zone, it would be one of his greatest equity legacies. “
He noted that zoning must be factored into the Imo power arrangement as “all gingers are not equal.
“Currently, there are 12 LGAs in Orlu zone, Nine in Owerri and Six in Okigwe.
“If zoning is not allowed, it means that to get power out of Orlu zone will be a huge problem.”
On why he felt he could succeed Uzodimma, the aspirant said that his philanthropy across all councils in the state would speak for him.
“My achievement are verifiable. I won’t steal money because I don’t need money that I will not use.”
The aspirant , who did not mention the political platform he intended to use for the election, said it would be formally announced soon. NAN
