“Unless You Want to Poison Me, I Still Have Three Years” – Uzodimma Hints at Imo’s Next Governor

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has offered insights into the kind of leadership he hopes to see after the end of his tenure, while affirming that he still has three more years in office. Speaking during a meeting with political leaders from the Owerri Zone under the Owerri Harmony Project at the Government House in Owerri on Tuesday, Uzodimma emphasized the importance of stability, merit, and courage in governance.

He told the delegation that, barring any unforeseen circumstances—jokingly referencing the possibility of being poisoned—he remains committed to serving out the rest of his term. He cautioned against heating up the political atmosphere prematurely, urging political actors to allow his administration to finish its work in peace.

“I will not solve all the problems in Imo. I will do the ones I can, but the man coming after me should be able to do some. We will support merit. We must look for merit because we need a man who is courageous,” Uzodimma said.

Reflecting on the challenges that faced his emergence as governor, particularly issues of insecurity, he stressed the need for a focused and bold successor who can handle similar pressures if necessary. “That is my prayer for the kind of person who will be my successor. The person who may not be a troublemaker but must fight if a fight is necessary,” he added.

He also warned against external political influences, noting that outside forces may soon begin to lure individuals with incentives and false promises of support. “Very soon, external forces will approach you, tell you that you are the best candidate for governor, and even offer incentives. But after the elections, they will abandon you. We must differentiate between personal desires and collective interests.”

While stating clearly that he is not ready to dive into succession politics just yet, Uzodimma called for unity, reconciliation, and constructive consultation among leaders. “Let us first create awareness, consult, reconcile, and unite. Politics should be pursued with love and understanding, not confrontation,” he said.

Uzodimma, who secured a controversial path to his first term and later achieved a landslide re-election victory, made it clear that his focus remains on completing his tenure effectively and ensuring that Imo’s future leadership is anchored on merit and collective good.