By Amby Uneze KSJI
In the arena of Nigerian politics, few events have been as emblematic and crucial as the November 11, 2023, Imo Guber Election. One would argue that the eventual victory of incumbent Governor Hope Uzodimma was foretold considering the level of his preparation. And it goes to show that adequate planning definitely produces expected result.
In the build-up to the election, there were abundant signs suggestive of Uzodimma’s imminent win. His record-setting development projects and inclusive governance were clear indicators. Uzodimma had laid a solid foundation of sociopolitical and economic change that resonated with the people of Imo State.
Notwithstanding, skeptics in the opposition party countered these signs with assertions of their prospective victory. They faulted Uzodimma’s achievements citing allegations on selective developmental projects. These allegations, seen as mudslinging and an effort to destabilize the status quo, were broadly dismissed by the electorate.
Support for Uzodimma was equally evident in the outcome of pre-election polls. A survey conducted by various non governmental organizations indicated an overwhelming approval rating for Uzodimma. Nigerians, especially those in Imo State, appreciated his innovative solutions to challenges, be it infrastructure, security, or employment and empowerment.
The meteoric rise in popularity for Uzodimma was also buoyed by the strategic backing from the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC). Having politically aligned himself with influential figures and policies at the federal level, Uzodimma was indirectly positioned as the choice candidate for the electorate. This was evidently clear having worked hard with other brother governors to become the Chairman of the APC governor's forum as well as the Chairman of the South East governor's forum.
The invigoration and enthusiasm associated with Uzodimma’s candidacy was experientially enriched by his aggressive and highly engaging grassroots mobilization strategy. Governor Uzodimma effectively used his extensive network of supporters to mobilize voters, ensuring his victory was inevitable. The Governor himself was the Director General of his campaign organization, and he had no rest as he had sleepless nights strategizing for his re-election. As if that was not enough, his wife was everywhere in the State to campaign for her dear husband. Not only that, the introduction of a female deputy in the person of Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru alongside her spouse, Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN) were an added advantage in the campaign and subsequent victory.
The strategy employed by the Governor which witnessed immense campaigns in the booths, wards, blocks, local government areas, Constituencies, zonal and state-wide were phenomenal and germane. For, instance, in Aboh Mbaise where I participated actively, we took the briefs from the Governor and applied it holistically by dwelling on booths, wards, blocks and local government campaigns and the effort we made paid off on the election day as people trooped out to cast their votes for the APC. Though, all these efforts were not without some challenges. But, these challenges were braved, and Uzodimma emerged victorious.
In an era where political outcomes are increasingly shaped by incumbency, public perceptions of governance and strategic political alignments, the Uzodimma victory was not just a watershed moment for Imo State, but a beacon for Nigerian politics.
In the other way round, the so-called oppositions such as the PDP, LP, YPP, AA and APGA were not in the campaign field. Campaigns are no longer done in the social media and one expects to reap mightily. These days, campaigns are based on ones antecedent, character, ability to deliver, and precious records. Imolites took stock of all these criterion and gave judgement on their perception and on each candidate, hence they voted en mass for the incumbent Governor Hope Uzodimma to complete his second term in office.
Again, the Imo Charter of Equity also played a very significant role. In this case, the people realized that the only way for other zones of Owerri and Okigwe to get power was to support Governor Hope Uzodimma to complete his second term. Uzodimma hails from Orlu zone and based on his resolution to ensure balance, justice and fairness, his promise to work for power rotation to Owerri zone by 2027 remain cardinal and indisputable.
For the first time in the history of elections in the State, the November 11, 2023 Governorship Election was adjudged the most peaceful, fairly and violence-free. Therefore, Imolites have been commended by all and sundry to have performed one of the best civic duties expected of them. Hence, kudos go to the people.
In conclusion, the foretelling of the victory of Governor Hope Uzodimma in the 2023 Imo Guber Election was manifested through his significant achievements, overwhelming public approval, strategic political backing, and a captivating grassroots mobilization. Despite facing numerous odds and harsh criticisms, the signs of his victory were clearly laid down for all to see. Victory, in this case, was not just a chance occurrence. Instead, it was a reflection of foresight and planning, prompt action, and a testament to the political acumen of Hope Uzodinma.
*Hon. Sir Amby Uneze
Special Adviser on Print Media to the Governor of Imo State
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