The Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu (RHFST) has raised the alarm that the protracted internal dispute within the All Progressives Congress chapter in Imo State may severely damage President Bola Tinubu's electoral prospects in the South-East zone ahead of the 2027 presidential polls.
In an official media statement issued on Saturday by its National President, Gbenga Owojori, the association emphasized the urgent need for a lasting reconciliation between Governor Hope Uzodimma and his predecessor, former Governor Rochas Okorocha. The group argued that leaving the political friction unaddressed would trigger wider negative repercussions for the ruling party across the entire geopolitical zone.
What are the major concerns raised by the group?
According to the RHFST, the rancor extends far beyond local party administration in Imo State. The political fallout has already destabilized broader strategic calculations, notably regarding key legislative positions such as the Senate presidency, while fueling anxieties that prominent contenders from the South-East might be sidelined.
"Imo APC crisis could cost Tinubu South-East votes. The dispute has consequences beyond the constituency," the organization stated.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted that ongoing regional disagreements could alter power dynamics in future legislative assemblies. "It has altered the political calculations surrounding the Senate presidency and raised concern that a leading South-East contender could be shut out of the contest before the next Senate is constituted," the group added.
What is the appeal to party leaders?
Directing its appeal to both Governor Uzodimma and Senator Okorocha, the political coalition urged the prominent leaders to lay down their grievances and prioritize internal harmony. The group stressed that collective mobilization is crucial for strengthening the party apparatus in Imo State and the wider South-East region.
Political analysts note that the South-East has historically presented a complex electoral landscape for the ruling party. The support group maintained that President Tinubu requires substantial backing from the zone to secure a solid mandate in 2027, warning that avoidable internal fractures in strategic states like Imo must not be allowed to undermine broader national ambitions.