Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, are reportedly engaged in a quiet supremacy battle, with both determined to outmaneuver each other and assert their political dominance. The conflict between Wike and Uzodinma stems from Wike’s alleged efforts to secure the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship ticket for his long-standing political ally, Sam Nnaemeka Anyanwu (Sam Daddy), in Imo State’s 2027 gubernatorial election.
Sam Daddy, a former National Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), was the PDP governorship candidate in Imo State’s 2023 gubernatorial election. Wike aims to secure the APC ticket for him, potentially at the expense of Uzodinma’s preferred candidate.
Uzodinma’s supporters accuse Wike of overstepping his bounds, attempting to determine the political future of Imo State. They argue that Wike is overrating himself, thinking he can impose his will on Imo State, where Uzodinma is a high-ranking governor.
Wike defends his actions, stating that Sam Daddy deserves the APC governorship ticket as compensation for his role in weakening the PDP, a move aimed at giving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu an advantage in the 2027 presidential election.
In response, Uzodinma has thrown his support behind Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, Wike’s political protégé, in his bid to break free from Wike’s influence. Uzodinma reportedly facilitated Fubara’s defection to the APC, aiming to weaken Wike’s grip on Rivers State. The move is seen as a strategic attempt by Uzodinma to retaliate against Wike’s interference in Imo State politics. Fubara’s defection is expected to reduce Wike’s influence in Rivers State.
Both Wike and Uzodinma are reportedly positioning themselves for the APC vice presidential nomination in 2031, when the north is expected to produce the party’s presidential candidate. The duo sees each other as rivals and is determined to build political leverage to negotiate for the vice presidential ticket, citing their relevance in Imo State and Rivers State.
Uzodinma’s supporters have dismissed Wike’s efforts as a “mission impossible,” asserting that Uzodinma will not be swayed by Wike’s maneuvers, and will protect his state’s interests.
