Political momentum in Imo State is building ahead of the 2027/28 governorship election, with four prominent figures—former governor Ikedi Ohakim, political newcomer Dr. Chima “Mazi Gburugburu” Amadi, ex-ISOPADEC boss Charles Orie, and billionaire businessman Mike Ejiogu—already positioning themselves as early contenders. Though Governor Hope Uzodimma is yet to complete half of his second term, campaign structures, endorsements, and political calculations are already in full swing.
Ikedi Godson Ohakim, who governed Imo from 2007 to 2011, is attempting what his supporters call a “second missionary journey.” Backed by the Bring Back Ohakim (BBO) movement led by retired US Army Captain Bishop Johnson, the former “Clean and Green” champion is leveraging his record in urban sanitation, infrastructure, and education to push for a one-term return that, according to his camp, would also uphold the Imo Charter of Equity by paving the way for Owerri Zone in 2031. Born in 1957, the University of Lagos-trained business executive and former commissioner is drawing comparisons to former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi’s successful comeback bid.
Chima Matthew Amadi, better known as “Mazi Gburugburu,” is the fresh face generating buzz through his TMO movement. An academic heavyweight with degrees from the University of Ibadan, London School of Economics, and University College London, Amadi is also a serial entrepreneur and chairman of the Julian-Matt Group. His philanthropy in Ngor Okpala and public criticism of Uzodimma’s administration have gained traction, though questions remain about his lack of a political party and the optics of his high-flying lifestyle in a state struggling economically.
Charles Umezurike Orie, former Managing Director of ISOPADEC, is quietly consolidating his bid, banking on his record in community healthcare, infrastructure, and skill acquisition programs during his tenure. The Ohaji/Egbema-born politician, whose achievements include building three modern hospitals and rehabilitating 20 primary health centers, has been endorsed by the Imo Progressives for Change 2027 and enjoys diaspora support. His “Follow Who Know Road” mantra signals an experienced approach, though observers note he must avoid the fate of past contenders who fizzled before the primaries.
Mike Ejiogu, the Onowu of Anara and CEO of CityGate Homes Abuja, is the latest to step forward, tying his political unveiling to his 51st birthday celebrations and the prestigious Aka Ekpuchi Onwa Igbo title. From humble beginnings in Benue State to building a business empire spanning real estate, hospitality, and manufacturing, Ejiogu has a strong base in Okigwe Zone and a reputation for grassroots empowerment. His Okigwe Zone Summit has been interpreted as a strategic launchpad for his campaign.
While each aspirant brings distinct strengths—Ohakim’s experience, Amadi’s academic and activist credentials, Orie’s development record, and Ejiogu’s financial muscle—the unfolding race will be shaped by party primaries, zoning debates, and the ability to connect with grassroots voters. The Imo Charter of Equity remains a central talking point, with Okigwe Zone hopefuls arguing for completion of their interrupted tenure.
The political theatre is expected to intensify in the coming months as endorsements, defections, and policy pitches take center stage. For now, these four names represent the vanguard of an election cycle that promises to be one of the most watched in the South East, with implications for both state governance and regional power dynamics.
