Growing Support for Uzodimma’s Senate Bid as Ohanaeze Reaffirms Confidence in His Leadership :::::::Barr Chizoba Iheka

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Growing Support for Uzodimma’s Senate Bid as Ohanaeze Reaffirms Confidence in His Leadership

:::::::Barr Chizoba Iheka

written by Stevenie

Ojijiagwo

The Global Deputy Legal Adviser of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Barrister Chizoba Iheka, has expanded on the group’s position regarding the emerging political momentum around His Excellency Gov. Hope Uzodimma, particularly as it concerns his potential transition to the Senate.

Iheka, who noted that he has stepped back from active partisan politics because of his membership in Ohanaeze emphasized that Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains a non-partisan but politically conscious body that closely observes governance, leadership trends, and the general welfare of Igbo people both at home and in the diaspora. According to him, the organization’s responsibility goes beyond cultural preservation—it includes identifying, encouraging, and supporting Igbo Sons in political leadership who have demonstrated capacity and commitment to public service.

He explained that during one of its recent high-level meetings, Ohanaeze Ndigbo issued a communiqué reaffirming its readiness to celebrate outstanding Igbo sons and daughters while also constructively engaging those in leadership when necessary. This balanced approach, he said, ensures accountability without undermining progress.

Speaking specifically on the development in Orlu zone, where APC political leaders of the zone reportedly purchased a senatorial nomination form for Governor Uzodimma, Iheka described the move as not only symbolic but also strategic and widely commendable.

“To us, this is a welcome development that reflects the collective will and confidence of the people,” Iheka stated. “It is not just about politics; it is about continuity, experience, and the need to sustain the momentum already established in governance.”

He argued that Governor Uzodimma’s possible move to the Senate represents an opportunity to extend his impact beyond Imo State to the national stage, where his experience in governance, infrastructure development, and legislative affairs can be further utilized.

“Having served as a Governor under very challenging circumstances and still delivered tangible results, his transition back to the Senate will not be a step down, but a step forward,” Iheka said. “It will provide a broader platform for him to advocate for Igbo interests and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

Iheka further stressed that Uzodimma’s record in Imo State speaks for itself. He pointed to significant infrastructural strides, including road construction, urban renewal, and other landmark projects, alongside investments in human capital development.

“Infrastructure is visible, but beyond that, the human development aspect—empowerment, education, and social welfare—has also seen considerable attention,” he noted.

He also recalled Uzodimma’s earlier political career, particularly his time in the Senate, where he was widely regarded as an active and result-driven lawmaker. According to Iheka, his legislative track record positions him as someone who can quickly readjust to the demands of the National Assembly and deliver effectively.

“Governor Uzodimma is not new to the Senate. He understands the terrain, he knows the legislative process, and he has a history of performance,” Iheka said. “That experience will be invaluable if he returns.”

Addressing critics, Iheka maintained that leadership must be assessed within the context of prevailing challenges. He argued that Uzodimma’s administration has faced significant obstacles but has continued to make measurable progress.

“There is hardly any administration that has encountered such a level of difficulty and still maintained a steady pace of development,” he stated. “What we are seeing is resilience, focus, and a determination to leave Imo better than he met it.”

On the broader role of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Iheka reiterated that the organization will always stand behind leaders who have demonstrated excellence, regardless of political affiliations. He emphasized that support is not given lightly but is based on verifiable performance and commitment to the people.

“As an umbrella body for Ndigbo worldwide, Ohanaeze has a duty to encourage continuity where progress is evident,” he said. “Supporting a capable leader like Senator Hope Uzodimma in his senatorial aspiration aligns with that responsibility.”

He concluded by urging stakeholders across Igboland to view the development not merely as a political ambition but as a strategic move that could strengthen Igbo representation at the national level especially now that there is urgent quest for an Igbo State to balance the geopolitical number of states in Nigeria.

“In the end, what matters is the collective progress of our people,” Iheka added. “And when a leader has proven capacity, it is only right to support him to serve in even greater capacities.”