Uzodimma Vows To Resist “Hostile Takeover” Of Power In Imo
Governor Hope Uzodimma has declared that his administration will resist any attempt at a “hostile takeover” of political power in Imo State, emphasizing that justice, inclusion, and consensus are essential for lasting peace and stability.
The governor made the statement on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, while receiving a report on the Charter of Equity from the Imo Elders Council at the Government House Banquet Hall in Owerri.
Reflecting on the circumstances surrounding his emergence in 2020, Uzodimma said the experience highlighted the dangers of political exclusion. He referenced findings by a panel led by Anthony Obinna, which identified marginalisation as a key driver of instability in the state.
“Anyone denied justice may not be committed to peace. We will eliminate any type of hostile takeover by building consensus among ourselves,” the governor stated.
Uzodimma described the Imo Elders Council as “the conscience of the state,” noting that it was established by law to provide guidance beyond the tenure of any administration. He disclosed plans to amend the enabling law to strengthen the council’s authority, including provisions to sanction misconduct among its members.
On the Charter of Equity, the governor reaffirmed its focus on the fair distribution of key political offices among the state’s three senatorial zones—Okigwe, Owerri, and Orlu. He urged political stakeholders to respect zoning arrangements and avoid divisive tendencies.
He also reiterated the state government’s alignment with the Federal Government, acknowledging the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“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,” Uzodimma said, while expressing optimism that adherence to equity and justice would ensure a smooth political transition in the state.
The governor further pledged to engage leaders from all three senatorial zones to deepen consensus and foster the political stability that has long eluded Imo State. He assured the Elders Council that its advisory role would continue beyond his administration.
Earlier, Chairman of the Imo Elders Council, HRH Cletus Ilomuanya, commended the governor for efforts to promote unity. He stressed that sustainable development can only be achieved when all parts of the state are carried along.
Ilomuanya urged that the Charter of Equity be implemented beyond rhetoric through fair appointments, equitable project distribution, and equal opportunities across the zones. He described the initiative as a pathway to building an inclusive state where no group feels marginalised.
The meeting concluded with prayers for peace, unity, and continued progress in Imo State, alongside a renewed call for collective responsibility in advancing the state’s development agenda.
Top government officials, including Deputy Governor Chinyere Ekomaru, former Deputy Governor Ada Okwuonu, Secretary to the State Government Cosmos Iwu, and other stakeholders, were in attendance.
