2027: RACE FOR IDEMILI HoR HOTS UP

Who represents Idemili North and South constituency in the HOR come 2027? This has been the nagging question in the minds of Umu Idemili since the under current political movements kick-started in the country.

Certainly, very few political observers, whether informed or otherwise will deny that a silent but fierce battle is gradually raging on in the LG. With the recent furry of political activities, the furnace is steaming; however, politicians prefers to speak of it in coded language. Yet this 2027 race for the HOR seat may end up as the greatest of all battles.

So far, numerous names are being touted for the seat currently held by Hon. Harris Okonkwo of the Labour Party. His supporters say he should go back to continue his good works. His convicts has inundated the internet with messages insisting that their principal deserves a second term as reward for a job well done.

Apart from Okonkwo’s supporters, subtle campaigning is in top gear in other major political parties in the LG, all with the view of unseating according to them the under “performed” legislator.

Political observers contend that the 2027 race race, based on the established Idemili North and South brotherly arrangement should be left for Idemili South to complete their own term of office. Many political pundits believe that this gentleman agreement shall eventually determine who wins the race.

The nomination race has gained great momentum in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) where three frontline aspirants are scheming to out-wit the other. There is no doubt that the build up to the APGA primary will generate extra heat that may shake the foundation of the party.

The frontrunner in the APGA primary race seems to be Hon. Ifeanyi Ibezi from Abatete who could be described as a serial contender for the HOR seat. But with his economic war-chest and acceptability amongst Ward chairmen and Executives he could be the man to beat in the race. Another serious contender for the APGA ticket is Chief Ikenna Iyiegbu, who narrowly lost the battle during the 2023 election to Hon. Okonkwo due to the Peter Obi factor. Only time will tell how far he could go this time around. Obosi born Hon. Kene Igboebisi is also making waves in the internet why he is the most qualified for the job. Latest entrant, Hon. Ifeanyi Metuh and his Ezeifeadigo Restoration Movement is leaving no stone unturned to grab the APGA diadem.

In the African Democratic Congress (ADC), despite the recent political shenanigans at the national level allegedly orchestrated by the ruling party, there is a titanic battle on who represents the Peter Obi family in the contest. Emerging indices on ground show that the race may be a two horse race between the incumbent, Hon. Harris Okonkwo and Hon. Chuka Ezenwune, a former two time member of the Anambra State House of Assembly. His numerous constituency projects across Idemili South may speak for him. Again , the positive impact of his recent unprecedented Empowerment Scheme is still fresh and enduring in Idemili South LGA. There is also Barrister Ifeanyi Mbanisi from Umuoji, Chinwe Ikokwu a veteran broadcaster from Oba; and Abacha town born Gini Williams Chukwuma from the oil sector in the race. Political watchers argue that the near abysmal performance of Hon. Harris Okonkwo in the Green Chamber may make his second term ambition a wild goose chase.

Despite the fact that the All Progressives Congress has little following in the State, however its top contender, Hon. K.K. Uche from Ojoto is no stranger to the game. Rev. Uche Ibeabuchi popularly known as Ukadike from Oba is also seeking for APC ticket.

In the PDP the current position shows that the race may be like a walk in the park for Hon. Anyamene from Obosi who is the only candidate in the race.

Not much have been heard in other political parties with regard to the HOR primary election.

In sum, political watchers are looking forward to see a decent primary election in all the political parties so as to ensure a proper democratic journey into the main election. Serious efforts should be made by the various parties to have a rancour and bickering free primary.

As events continue to unfold it is expected that many more hopefuls will soon throw their hats into the ring for the battle royale.