The political rivalry between Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, appears to be intensifying as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
Uzodimma, who chairs the Progressive Governors’ Forum, and Wike are reportedly at odds over political control and mobilisation strategies in the South-East and South-South regions ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid.
Sources indicate that the rift between the two political heavyweights dates back to the political crisis in Rivers State. Uzodimma was said to have supported the incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara, during the impeachment attempt by lawmakers loyal to Wike.
The disagreement reportedly persisted even after President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State in a bid to restore stability.
Political analysts say Uzodimma’s backing of Fubara further strained his relationship with Wike, deepening divisions between their camps.
As the 2027 elections approach, both leaders are said to be positioning themselves as key mobilisers for the president in their respective regions. While Wike has reportedly assured the president of delivering significant votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in states such as Rivers, Cross River, Edo, and Bayelsa, Uzodimma maintains that the party already has strong internal structures to secure victory.
Uzodimma has also cautioned against external political actors attempting to align with the APC without formal membership.
“We do not want crafty politicians who want to exploit the APC under the guise of supporting our leader and President,” he said. “The President has made it clear that when friendship conflicts with party loyalty, the party takes precedence. We stand by that.”
The Imo governor further stressed his position on political control, stating that no external influence would determine electoral outcomes in states under his watch.
Meanwhile, the rivalry is beginning to shape political dynamics beyond Rivers State, with indications that it may influence alignments in Enugu State.
Sources revealed that former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Uche Nnaji, who is believed to be aligned with Uzodimma, is considering a return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest the Enugu State governorship election.
Nnaji, who lost the 2023 governorship election to incumbent Governor Peter Mbah, recently accused the governor of involvement in the alleged tampering of his academic records at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka—an issue that contributed to his resignation from the federal cabinet.
The evolving rivalry between Uzodimma and Wike is expected to play a significant role in shaping political alliances and electoral strategies ahead of the 2027 general elections.
