The Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu has expressed concern that the Federal High Court’s ruling recognising Rochas Okorocha as the duly elected APC candidate for Imo West could deepen political tensions in the Southeast and complicate efforts to sustain unity within the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
The Group said Governor Hope Uzodinma, an experienced politician who served in the Senate before becoming governor, should be allowed to pursue his political ambitions in accordance with the rules.
In a statement by Hon. Gbenga Owojori, National President, Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu (RHFST), the group said Uzodimma’s supporters regard him as a credible contender for the Senate presidency, adding that his potential candidacy has received support from political leaders across party lines.
‘The dispute over the Imo West ticket has consequences beyond the constituency. It has altered the political calculations surrounding the Senate presidency and raised concern that a leading Southeast contender could be shut out of the contest before the next Senate is constituted,’ the group said.
The group noted allegations by critics that Senate President Godswill Akpabio has an interest in preventing Uzodinma from emerging as a potential rival, and that former Rivers State Governor and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, was involved in efforts to pursue a legal challenge against him.
Critics have linked those claims to Akpabio’s past support for Wike during his dispute with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
‘These are serious claims and should not be treated as established facts. The judgment must be assessed on its legal merits, and the statements attributed to Wike require clarification. Given the political consequences of the ruling, the public deserves confidence that no political pressure has influenced the judicial process,’ the Group said.
The Group added that Uzodimma should be judged on his record, experience and support, and should not be denied a fair opportunity to compete.
The Group warned that the dispute could affect President Tinubu’s political fortunes if Southeast leaders conclude that their support for the administration is not matched by fair representation.
It said dissatisfaction in the region could weaken party unity, reduce grassroots mobilisation and make it harder for the President to broaden support for his second-term bid.
‘The President needs a united party and the confidence of political allies across the country. If the Southeast believes its support is welcome only when votes are needed, but its candidates are obstructed when power is being shared, the consequences could extend well beyond Imo State,’ the Group said.
The Group further noted claims that political actors had boasted of installing Ifeanyi Ararume as governor, as well as allegations involving Ade Tinubu, described as the President’s daughter’s fiancé and personal physician to the President. It said those claims require substantiation and a response from the individuals named.
The Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu urged the APC leadership to address the concerns through transparent processes and inclusive dialogue.
‘President Tinubu’s second-term prospects will depend in part on the unity of the party and the trust of its regional partners. A fair opportunity for Governor Uzodinma would help preserve confidence in the APC. Further marginalisation of the Southeast could deepen regional disaffection and weaken the coalition the President will need in 2027.’