Leaders, stakeholders and prominent sons and daughters of Okigwe Senatorial Zone of Imo State on Sunday, February 22, 2026, converged on Umueze 1, the country home of the zone’s apex leader and convener, Chief Tony Chukwu, in a historic gathering that fused spiritual devotion with strategic political engagement.
Held during the solemn Lenten season, the meeting centred on Okigwe’s collective aspiration to produce the Governor of Imo State in 2028, at the end of the tenure of His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodinma.
In his opening address, Chief Chukwu described the timing of the meeting as deeply symbolic, noting that Lent represents sacrifice, reflection and total dependence on God. He explained that the essence of the gathering was to urge Ndi Okigwe, both at home and in the diaspora, to commit the 2028 governorship project into God’s hands through a proposed three-day fasting and prayer programme scheduled for Wednesday 25th, Thursday 26th and Friday 27th February 2026.
The proposal received unanimous endorsement from the leaders present, who affirmed that Okigwe deserves the governorship in 2028 and declared that divine intervention remains central to the realisation of the aspiration.
Former Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Dr Ikedi Ohakim, expressed deep appreciation to Chief Chukwu for his consistency and steadfastness in championing the Okigwe cause over the years. He urged unity among all Okigwe sons and daughters and emphasised the need for sincere prayers, stating confidently that God remains faithful to His people.
The gathering also commended Governor Uzodinma for his exemplary leadership, infrastructural strides and goodwill towards Okigwe Zone.
Resolutions adopted at the meeting included prayers for God to touch Governor Uzodinma’s heart to support Okigwe’s 2028 bid; divine intervention to enable the zone secure the understanding and backing of Owerri and Orlu zones; unity among Okigwe sons and daughters; a change of heart for anyone working against the collective interest of the zone; and seeking the face of God as the ultimate source of Okigwe’s strength and success for the project.
A motion for the adoption of the resolutions was moved by Rt Hon Miriam Onuoha and seconded by Rt Hon Chiji Collins, after which the resolutions were unanimously adopted.
The spiritual high point of the event was an exhortation and prayer session led by clergy from Okigwe Zone.
Among the dignitaries who spoke were Chief Cosmas Iwu, Secretary to the Government of Imo State; HRM Eze Dr Oliver Ohanwe, Chairman, Okigwe Global Elders Forum (OKGEF); Chief Longers Anyanwu; Dr Princes Gloria Akobundu; Hon Barr Chris Okewulonu; HRH Eze Dan Emeronye; HRH Eze Emmanuel Ibech; HRH Eze Ngozi P. Uwalaka; Rt Hon Acho Ihim; Prof Nnamdi Obiaraeri; and His Grace Bishop Athan Azubuike.
Also in attendance were Her Excellency Barr Chioma Ohakim; Prof Ossy Nwebo; Hon Ifeanyi Agwu, PhD; Ezechi Chukwu, PhD; Prof Chiedozie Eze; Chief Peter Orji; Hon Sam Osuji; Ozo Barr Babatunde Charles Ezekwem; Mrs Chikodi Emenalom; Rt Hon Paul Emeziem; Hon Greg Owuamanam; Hon Ben Ozoemenam; Hon Ozo Obinna Ogwuegbu; Hon Chuck Chuckuemeka; Chief Regis Uwakwe; Dr Uche Ewelike; Dr Lady Love Ineh; Hon Oluchi Glory Okeagu; Hon Uche Anyanwu; Rev Divine Eches, PhD; Chief Ethelbert Nwachukwu; Hon Chikwem Onuoha; Sir Bright Nwachukwu; Hon Simon Ebegbulem and a host of others.
The event was further graced by prominent traditional rulers, members of the clergy, political stakeholders, community leaders and numerous other distinguished sons and daughters of Okigwe Senatorial Zone.
The gathering concluded on a note of unity, faith and renewed determination, as leaders reaffirmed their commitment to pursue the 2028 governorship aspiration with love, solidarity, strategic engagement, constructive conversation and unwavering trust in God.
