Chief Charles Orie, a businessman and former Managing Director of ISOPADEC, attended an Iri Ji Mbaise celebration in Toronto, Canada, where he discussed the ongoing political debate over the "Owerri Zone Charter of Equity", praised the contributions of the Mbaise diaspora, and outlined tentative policy ideas he might implement if he eventually runs for governor of [Imo State](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imo_State).
**Key points**
- Orie highlighted the need for unity, arguing that zoning based on origin hinders development.
- He criticized groups that previously opposed Governor [Hope Uzodimma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hope_Uzodimma) and accused them of opportunism.
- The chief urged support for the upcoming 2027 presidential election and the broader agenda of the [All Progressives Congress (APC)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Progressives_Congress_(Nigeria)).
- He mentioned possible tax reliefs for micro, small and medium enterprises and a name change for the colonial‑era Douglas House.
- Orie clarified that he has not formally declared a gubernatorial bid, citing [INEC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independent_National_Electoral_Commission) regulations.
What is the "Owerri Zone Charter of Equity"?
The charter is a proposal floated by some traditional rulers and politicians to allocate political positions based on the three historic zones of Imo State – Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe. Orie dismissed the idea, insisting that merit, character and capability should determine appointments, not geographic origin.
Why did Chief Orie attend the Mbaise event in Canada?
He said the gathering was an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Mbaise community abroad and to reinforce ties with the diaspora, which he described as one of the state’s greatest assets. He noted that Mbaise professionals are establishing successful enterprises from Toronto to Houston and that their expertise should be harnessed for Imo’s development.
How does Orie view the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections?
He urged party loyalists to back Governor Uzodimma in selecting trusted supporters for upcoming contests and warned that self‑servicing “political jobbers” undermine cohesion. His priority, he said, is to help the [APC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Progressives_Congress_(Nigeria)) secure the presidency, the Senate seat for Governor Uzodimma, and all legislative seats at the national and state levels.
What policies would he consider in his first month as governor?
Orie hinted at three immediate actions: (1) renaming the colonial‑era Douglas House after Chief Sam Mbakwe, a celebrated Imo leader; (2) abolishing taxes, levies and signage fees for micro, small and medium enterprises earning less than ₦500 million annually; and (3) imposing tax obligations primarily on large corporations and oil firms while providing exemptions for informal traders such as mechanics and electricians who lack government‑provided infrastructure.
Is Chief Orie running for governor?
He confirmed that no formal declaration has been made and that any campaign activity must comply with [INEC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independent_National_Electoral_Commission) rules. He indicated that a decision will be announced at a later, appropriate time.
Overall, Orie called for unity, peace and development, emphasizing that political ambition should serve the broader interests of Imo State rather than personal gain.