Obioma Success Akagburuonye, a lawyer, engineer and businessman, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Imo State, intensifying consultations across the state’s three senatorial districts ahead of the poll.
Akagburuonye, who is seeking to succeed Governor Hope Uzodimma, said Imo State needs “a change for good,” describing the transition as a relay race that requires the baton to be passed at the right time.
“In Imo State, we need a change for good, change of baton, from Hope to Success. In a relay, it gets to a point where the fast runner finishes the race,” he said.
While commending Uzodimma’s performance, Akagburuonye stressed that continuity must be anchored on integrity and competence.
“Uzodimma has made impact. He has provided a friendly atmosphere for people and businesses to thrive. I commend him for creating employment opportunities and fighting insecurity,” he added.
Speaking with reporters in Lagos, the governorship aspirant emphasised the importance of succession, noting that if the governor hands over to a competent successor, the state would benefit significantly. He disclosed that no fewer than 12 indigenes from different political parties and local government areas have already declared interest in the race.
“Though I am not a politician, I am a professional in politics with verifiable integrity and achievements, and I believe I am the best man for the job,” Akagburuonye said.
He further stressed that power must be actively pursued, citing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assertion that power is not served à la carte.
“Power should be fought for. It may not be a straight road. I believe with God on my side, I will be able to serve my people and serve them well,” he stated.
Akagburuonye underscored the need for integrity in governance, noting that Imo State has experienced controversies in the past.
“Imo State is not an easy one to govern. Uzodimma has set the pace that needs the right man to fit in. I am that man,” he said, adding that the current administration has surpassed itself in infrastructure development and empowerment of the people.
On his political platform, the aspirant declined to disclose details, describing the decision as strategic.
“The platform is not the issue now. What is important is getting the right candidate. Ikedi Ohakim did not emerge from a popular party. He emerged from PPA. God can choose you and make people work for you,” he said.
Akagburuonye also spoke on zoning, insisting that it is the turn of Owerri Senatorial Zone to produce the next governor.
“I believe in the charter of equity. Governor Hope Uzodimma has said it is the turn of Owerri to be governor. That is why I am contesting,” he said.
He noted that while Orlu Zone has produced Governors Achike Udenwa, Rochas Okorocha and Hope Uzodimma, and Okigwe Zone produced Ikedi Ohakim, Owerri Zone has yet to produce a governor.
“If Uzodimma makes true his pronouncement that it is the turn of Owerri Zone, it would be one of his greatest equity legacies,” Akagburuonye added.
Further justifying zoning, he said: “All fingers are not equal. Currently, there are 12 LGAs in Orlu Zone, nine in Owerri and six in Okigwe. If zoning is not allowed, getting power out of Orlu Zone will be a huge problem.”
Akagburuonye cited his philanthropy as evidence of his preparedness for leadership, revealing that over 300,000 people have benefited from his solar empowerment programme. He also runs the Believers of the Gospel Care Foundation, which supports people across different faiths.
“My achievements are verifiable. I won’t steal money because I don’t need money that I will not use,” he said.
He disclosed that he has declared his assets and pledged to run an open government, adding that he would not reside permanently in Government House but would operate offices across local government areas to monitor development.
The aspirant also reflected on his past ordeal as a real estate operator, revealing that his lands were seized for 20 years before eventually being restored.
