Former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha has spoken about Governor Hope Uzodinma's alleged political ambitions during the 2022 All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primary, claiming that the governor had sought to become the running mate to former Senate President Ahmad Lawan.
Okorocha made the claim on Thursday during an appearance on Channels Television, following a reported court decision concerning the APC senatorial primary for Imo West Senatorial District.
During the interview, the former governor questioned Uzodinma's political ambitions and suggested that the governor had sought several positions within the country's political leadership.
"Hope wants to be everything," Okorocha said, alleging that Uzodinma had sought to become Lawan's running mate during the APC presidential contest in 2022.
The allegation formed part of Okorocha's broader comments about political leadership in Imo State and developments within the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Okorocha Comments on Governance in Imo State
The former governor also expressed concerns about Uzodinma's administration, questioning its leadership and representation of the people of Imo State.
Okorocha alleged that residents were dissatisfied with the governor's performance and raised concerns about the handling of security challenges in the state.
He claimed that insecurity had increased during Uzodinma's tenure and compared the situation with his own experience as governor.
Okorocha maintained that he had managed security challenges during his administration without the level of violence he attributed to the current government.
However, these statements represent the former governor's assessment of the situation. An independent evaluation of security conditions across the two administrations would require supporting data and relevant records.
Dispute Over APC Senatorial Primary
Okorocha also addressed the dispute surrounding the APC primary for the Imo West Senatorial District, urging Uzodinma to accept the reported outcome rather than pursue further legal action.
"If I were him, let him forget going to appeal. Let him just accept this in good faith because he did not win an election," Okorocha said.
The former governor further argued that the result should not be overturned through what he described as an attempt by an individual to manipulate the process.
His comments come amid questions about the outcome of the party primary and the legal procedures available to resolve disagreements over candidate nominations.
The final determination of the dispute will depend on the applicable electoral laws, relevant evidence and any further decisions by the courts.
Political Developments Ahead of 2027
Okorocha said his comments were intended to challenge what he considered shortcomings in the state's political leadership and governance.
The disagreement highlights continuing discussions about party leadership, candidate selection and political representation in Imo State as preparations for the 2027 general elections progress.
The competing claims concerning the primary election and the conduct of the state's administration remain matters that should be assessed using verifiable records, official statements and relevant legal decisions.
