Governor Hope Uzodimma has declared that his administration will resist any form of “hostile takeover” of political power in Imo State, emphasizing that justice, inclusion and consensus remain critical to sustaining peace and stability.
The governor made this known on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, while receiving members of the Imo Elders Council at the Government House Banquet Hall in Owerri, where the Council presented its report on the much-discussed Charter of Equity.
Uzodimma noted that the political crisis that surrounded his emergence in 2020 highlighted the dangers of exclusion and imbalance in governance. He referenced findings by a panel led by *Anthony Obinna*, which identified marginalisation as a key trigger of instability in the state.
“Anyone denied justice may not be committed to peace. We will eliminate any type of hostile takeover by building consensus among ourselves,” the governor stated.
He described the Imo Elders Council as the “conscience of the state,” explaining that the body was established by law to provide guidance to governments beyond any single administration. Uzodimma further disclosed plans to amend the enabling law to strengthen the Council’s authority, including provisions to sanction erring members.
On the Charter of Equity, the governor reiterated its importance in ensuring fairness in the distribution of key political offices among Imo’s three senatorial zones—Okigwe, Owerri and Orlu. He urged political stakeholders to respect zoning arrangements and avoid actions capable of deepening division.
He also reaffirmed Imo State’s alignment with the Federal Government, acknowledging the support of President **Bola Tinubu**.
“Charter of Equity has come to stay. Listen to the voice of reason and believe in it. Work with the Federal Government and support the President. Go home and pray and allow God to do the remaining,” Uzodimma added.
The governor assured that further consultations would be held with leaders across the three zones to strengthen consensus and ensure political stability, especially as the state looks toward future transitions.
Earlier, Chairman of the Imo Elders Council, **Cletus Ilomuanya**, commended the governor for his efforts in promoting unity and inclusiveness. He stressed that sustainable development can only be achieved when all parts of the state are carried along.
Ilomuanya urged that the Charter of Equity should go beyond rhetoric, calling for its practical implementation through fair political appointments, balanced project distribution and equal opportunities for all zones.
He described the Charter as a pathway to an inclusive Imo where no region feels marginalised and every citizen has the opportunity to aspire to leadership without discrimination.
The meeting concluded with prayers for peace, unity and progress in the state, alongside a renewed call for collective responsibility in advancing Imo’s development agenda.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru and her husband, Barr. Chukwuma Ekomaru; former Deputy Governor, Lady Ada Okwuonu; Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, members of the State Executive Council, and other stakeholders and opinion leaders.
