On Friday, 6 November 2026, at the Government House in Owerri, Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo State, addressed a gathering of South‑East stakeholders and urged the region to abandon its habitual opposition stance and seek direct engagement with the federal centre for political gains.
What was the core message?
Uzodimma argued that the South‑East’s persistent complaints of marginalisation are counter‑productive. He called for a strategic shift: “We need results, we must change our style, we must agree on how to sit down with the man in power and negotiate our interest. We must forget about local competitions. We as Igbo people must take bold decisions.”
Why does the governor see a need for change?
He highlighted that other regions—namely the South‑South, Middle Belt and North‑East—have already met with the President and secured projects, while the South‑East continues to “cry marginalisation.” The governor stressed that the “Nigerian Project” remains the nation’s top priority and that the South‑East must align itself with this agenda to reap benefits.
Who should lead the new approach?
According to Uzodimma, the responsibility lies not with individual governors but with the people of the region. “The South‑East governors are merely servants; power and sovereignty belong to the people. We cannot work alone. We must work with stakeholders,” he said, emphasizing collective action over isolated opposition.
What practical steps were suggested?
He urged stakeholders to compile a clear, evidence‑based list of the region’s needs and present it to the President, Bola Tinubu, as a basis for negotiation. The governor also called for the preparation of statistical data outlining the South‑East’s priorities before any meeting with the federal government.
Background context
The South‑East has historically positioned itself as the main opposition bloc in national politics, often vocalising grievances over perceived neglect. In recent years, other geopolitical zones have secured federal projects through direct dialogue with the presidency, prompting calls for a reassessment of the South‑East’s political strategy.
Looking ahead
Uzodimma concluded by urging bold, unified decisions from the Igbo community, stressing that only through constructive engagement can the region achieve the development outcomes it seeks.