By Charles Igbo
“If Owerri looks good, then, Imo looks good”
In a subtle hint that Owerri Zone will occupy the Governorship seat of Imo State in 2028, Governor Hope Uzodimma explained on Saturday, April 18, why he decided not to encourage Dr Mcdonald Ebere, to continue in office as the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Imo State Chapter.
The Governor spoke in Owerri on Saturday at a civic reception organised in honour of Dr. Ebere to mark the end of his successful tenure as the State Chairman of the Imo APC.
Dr Ebere, who is from the Owerri Senatorial Zone, gave way to a successor from Orlu, an indication, thanks to Uzodimma, that Orlu Zone, which had monopolised the Governorship seat for nearly 24 years will give way to somebody from another Zone, most likely, Owerri Zone, since it is, also, taken for granted that the other Political Parties, especially, the African Democratic Congress, ADC, will field candidates from the Zone.
Said Uzodimma of the change of baton: Although Ebere could have remained State Party Chairman, “considerations of equity and political stability necessitated leadership changes”
Uzodimma also used the occasion to canvass for the ongoing development efforts of government in Owerri, the Imo State capital, and lauded Dr. Ebere for his contribution to the growth of the Party in the State.
Describing Ebere as “one of our best” during the grand civic reception, Uzodimma said the gathering was primarily to thank God for Ebere’s successful tenure and his new appointment, which he attributed to “the goodness of the Lord and the wisdom” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Governor noted that although Ebere could have remained State Party Chairman, “considerations of equity and political stability necessitated leadership changes.”
He highlighted his personal ties to Ebere, stating, “He is not just my political friend; his wife is my cousin. Our relationship is organic.”
Uzodimma used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to developing Owerri as the State capital, stressing that “if Owerri looks good, Imo looks good.”
He further disclosed that the State government is implementing a 25-year Development Plan already approved by the House of Assembly, and cautioned against illegal land occupation.
The Governor insisted that all land falls under government control as stipulated by law, warning, “Stop taking government land unlawfully. If land is needed, approach the government.”
He urged residents to support ongoing development efforts, insisting that a befitting Capital City is essential for the State’s progress and pride.
Speaking earlier, Sir Ebere expressed deep gratitude to Governor Uzodimma, President Tinubu, the leadership and members of the APC, and the people of Owerri Zone for the faith reposed in him, and vowed his continued loyalty to the Party.
He thanked Governor Uzodimma for his unwavering support over the past 24 years, saying, “without you, I wouldn’t be here today.”
Ebere emphasised the Governor’s pivotal role in his academic and political journey.
Reflecting on his tenure as Party Chairman, Ebere thanked the Governor for guidance and support that ensured his success, and apologised for any hurt caused during his tenure.
He further used the opportunity to request for reallocation of Area ‘k’ land to Owerri people as they have lost most of their indigenous land to the capital development; as well as sought financial support for a young boy’s kidney transplant.
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