My attention has been drawn to an article titled Imo 2027: Who Does the Cap Fit from Owerri Zone to Succeed Uzodinma? published on innonews.com.ng, Nigerian Watchdog, and other newspapers, which was filled with malicious and demeaning intentions towards Sir Jude Ejiogu.
The author, hiding behind a pseudonym to mask their cowardice, targeted the heart of Owerri North while pretending to assess the political personalities in Owerri Zone which was why they added Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha to the mix to make it appear so.
Such a poorly constructed article could only come from someone remotely controlled to push narratives under pressure for a pittance because the intention behind it is glaringly obvious: no research, shallow narrative, and flimsy conclusions.
Of all the individuals the author could target in their web of political folly, they chose Sir Jude Ejiogu—a man who has proven himself in every sphere he has ventured into. A respected technocrat, distinguished banker, international financial consultant, accomplished economist, and political heavyweight, Sir Jude’s achievements speak for themselves.
What is baffling is that while attempting to portray the former Secretary to the Imo State Government in a negative light, the author actually acknowledged his prominence in Imo State politics, his success in the banking sector, and his impressive political record.
Yet, as the saying goes, “When a dog is destined to die, it no longer smells the stench of excreta.” The author, enjoying the proceeds from this smear campaign, then tried to tarnish the reputation of the former Chief of Staff to the Government of Imo State. Despite their efforts, they failed to craft a convincing story, as their limited imagination and lack of creativity were on full display.
In this lackluster attempt, the writer continued to stir up baseless controversies without any success. I don’t blame them—they needed to secure their payment.
What does this writer know about political journeys? What criteria were used for their assessments? Their piece reads like cheap beer-parlor talk, lacking substance or evidence.
Sir Jude Ejiogu’s political career has been a model of consistent progress and success. To this day, his contributions have been instrumental in ensuring the emergence of the God-sent Governor of Imo State.
Whether or not he is a member of any coalition, what was the purpose and intention behind such involvement? While the writer foolishly portrayed this as a negative, they lacked the insight to understand that Sir Jude’s efforts were aimed at advancing the interests of the people of Imo State.
It takes bravery to challenge the status quo, courage to stand up for the people, and unconditional commitment to the betterment of Imo State—traits that Sir Jude Ejiogu has demonstrated throughout his career, paving the way for the successful emergence of Dist. Senator Hope Uzodinma, whom Sir Jude has referred to as the God-given Governor of Imo State.
What does this writer, with their shallow, sentimentally-driven perspective, understand about the significance of impact in politics?
It is incredibly bold—and foolish—for them to accuse the former Chairman of the Imo State Local Government Service Commission of making no impact in recent times. In fact, some of the largest political gatherings in support of Senator Hope Uzodinma’s re-election were organized and hosted by Sir Jude Ejiogu.
At the event of his birthday, which occurred just before the elections that secured Senator Hope Uzodinma’s return to office, it is on record that people from all corners of Imo State assembled at the instance of Sir Jude Ejiogu to honor him and reaffirm their commitment to the re-election bid.
The author of this article, in their confusion, failed to recognize the contradictions in their own writing. How can someone who acknowledges Sir Jude’s capacity in political mobilization and organization then claim that he lacks what it takes to lead?
Sir. Jude Ejiogu has mentioned severally that he is not interested in the 2027 Governorship race, but I dare say that if the people of Imo State find him worthy and urge him to join the race, does this author feel his sponsor is transparently confident to stand on the same stage as Sir. Jude Ejiogu and have their Professional, Enterprising, Leadership and Political Experience compared?
This piece is nothing more than a failed attempt to smear a respected figure, lacking in substance and credibility.
The author seems to be unaware of the strength of digital tools today and mistakenly believes they can remain anonymous. It’s a small hurdle when the truth comes to light.
It’s also a sign of laziness and a lack of creativity on their part to think that their sponsors and financiers can remain hidden behind this disgraceful write-up.
When Imo 2027 approaches, we will sift through everything; Owerri Zone will present Imo State with the finest candidate they have.
The author and their allies should prepare for the real investigative journalism that will take place. We will examine school records, business history, professional achievements, personal character, and political experience of all aspiring candidates, and we’ll see how their backers measure up.
When the time comes, they and their sponsors will either apologize to the people of Owerri North or face the consequences.
Sir Jude Ejiogu, a man of integrity, has always championed the unity and collective progress of Owerri Zone in particular and Imo State as a whole. He is widely known for his sincerity of purpose in all his endeavors.
This very characteristic of Sir Jude Ejiogu is one of the reasons our Governor, Dist. Senator Hope Uzodinma, found it wise to reaffirm, in no uncertain terms, the Imo State Charter of Equity, which paves the way for an Owerri man to succeed him.
The Governor understood that consolidating his stand with a man like Sir Jude, known for keeping his word, meant that the people would trust his commitment to upholding the Charter of Equity.
The Governor’s visit to the residence of the former Commissioner for Special Duties in Imo State further solidified his second-term re-election campaign.
The author’s attempt to stir discord in Owerri North and Owerri Zone has failed miserably. This is a non-starter. They should best be advised to be properly guided.
Anuforo Goodluck Eziokwu (A.G.E)
Owerri North