By Suhaib Auwal
Journalist, Media Consultant and Public Affairs Analyst
Kano, Nigeria
15 October 2026
The inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections has once again highlighted the intrigues, rivalries and ambitions that define Nigerian politics. Amid the political exchanges, however, one thing remains clear: Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma should not be underestimated.
Uzodimma is more than a state governor. As Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, he has played a significant role in strengthening the APC, fostering cooperation among governors and attracting opposition politicians into the ruling party.
His political influence extends beyond Imo State, and judging his relevance solely by his ability to deliver his home state would overlook the broader responsibilities he has undertaken within the party.
Recent political remarks by prominent figures, including Nyesom Wike and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, have underscored the importance of electoral strength, political experience and ambition. While these are legitimate considerations in politics, they should not be used to dismiss Uzodimma’s contributions or limit his prospects.
Political experience is valuable, but it does not give anyone exclusive ownership of ambition or influence. Nigerian politics has repeatedly shown that alliances shift, new leaders emerge and those underestimated today can become influential figures tomorrow.
Uzodimma’s role in building relationships among APC governors, managing competing interests and supporting the party’s expansion makes him an important figure as the 2027 elections approach. These responsibilities require negotiation, patience and the ability to unite people with different political interests.
The APC’s success will depend on its ability to maintain unity, manage internal competition and mobilise support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election. Leaders who contribute to these objectives deserve recognition rather than dismissal because of political disagreements.
Of course, no politician’s future is guaranteed. However, it would be premature to write off Uzodimma or assume that his political journey has reached its peak. If he sustains his influence and continues contributing to the party’s success, he could emerge with an even more prominent national role.
His critics may disagree with his ambitions, but they cannot determine his political destiny. That will depend on his performance, relationships, the decisions of the party’s leadership and the wider political landscape.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, Uzodimma’s political journey will remain worth watching. He may yet rise to positions his critics consider unlikely, proving once again that Nigerian politics is full of surprises.
Ultimately, the best response to criticism is performance. If Uzodimma continues to demonstrate political maturity, strengthen the APC and contribute to its electoral fortunes, he will have a compelling case for greater responsibility.
Despite the criticism and political rivalry, Hope Uzodimma has every opportunity to triumph and rise to greater political heights. His critics may question his ambitions, but they should not mistake political opposition for the end of his political journey.

Comments
Post a Comment