Political tension is rising in Imo State as a coalition of stakeholders and pressure groups from the Owerri zone intensifies calls on three prominent figures—Emeka Ihedioha, Chima Amadi, and Senator Samuel Anyanwu—to enter the race for the Owerri senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 elections.
The push is part of early political manoeuvres shaping up ahead of the November 2027 governorship poll, with stakeholders insisting that control of the senatorial seat could significantly influence who eventually secures the state’s top political office.
Across several political forums in the zone, the message has been consistent: the Owerri senatorial election is being viewed not just as a legislative contest, but as a strategic launchpad for the governorship race.
Pius Nwokedi of the Owerri Mandate Group (OMG) said the seat carries weight far beyond representation at the National Assembly, describing it as a decisive factor in shaping the zone’s political future.
According to him, whoever secures the mandate would automatically gain visibility, influence, and political momentum needed for a stronger governorship bid later in the cycle.
The growing coalition includes groups such as the Owerri Zonal Equity Movement (OZEM), Nmegbu Adinma Forum (NAF), Concerned Owerri Stakeholders Forum (COSF), and Oganihu Owerri, all aligning around a similar argument: unity and strategy are critical if the zone hopes to compete effectively in 2027.
OZEM stressed that Owerri zone cannot afford political miscalculations at this stage, insisting that only candidates with proven capacity and broad acceptance should be considered.
Among those repeatedly mentioned, former governor Emeka Ihedioha is seen as having strong grassroots backing, while technocrat Chima Amadi is being promoted by some stakeholders as a reform-minded option with appeal among young voters and professionals.
Senator Samuel Anyanwu is also being urged to re-enter the contest, with supporters arguing that his experience could strengthen the zone’s political positioning.
Basil Agoha, a stakeholder, warned that the zone must prepare for a highly competitive political environment, especially given the strength of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
He argued that securing the Senate seat would require a candidate with financial strength, broad networks, and strong electoral appeal to withstand what he described as an intense political contest.
Despite the mounting pressure, none of the three key figures has publicly declared interest in the senatorial race. However, political sources say consultations and behind-the-scenes discussions are ongoing as the 2027 political alignment continues to take shape.
