Jun 28, 2026

"It's Finally My Turn — Sam Anyanwu Eyes Imo Governor's Seat

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in politics

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Owerri, Imo State — In a bold assertion of political destiny amid Nigeria’s complex power rotation dynamics, Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu, the national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has declared it is now “his turn” to govern Imo State.

Speaking on Saturday during the inauguration of the “Polling Unit Movement for Sam Daddy” support group in Owerri, Anyanwu positioned himself as the natural successor in a line of prominent Imo leaders, explicitly referencing former governors Ikedi Ohakim and Emeka Ihedioha, alongside the incumbent, Hope Uzodimma.

The event, held at the Imo State PDP Secretariat, signals the early stirring of what promises to be a fiercely contested 2027 governorship race.

Attendees and grassroots mobilizers gathered to formally launch this new structure aimed at building support from the polling unit level upward — a strategic grassroots approach in Nigeria’s electioneering.

Popularly known as “Sam Daddy,” Anyanwu brings a long and layered resume to the ambition. Born on June 18, 1965, in Obodo, Amaimo, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State, he has traversed Nigeria’s political landscape with notable resilience.

His journey includes serving as chairman of Ikeduru LGA (2004–2007), two terms in the Imo State House of Assembly representing Ikeduru Constituency (2007–2015), and election to the Senate representing Imo East Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly (2015–2019).

He has also held the influential position of PDP National Secretary, weathering internal party storms, suspensions, expulsions, and reinstatements.

In 2023, Anyanwu emerged as the PDP’s governorship candidate but fell short against the APC’s Hope Uzodimma, whose victory involved a controversial Supreme Court ruling that overturned initial results favoring Emeka Ihedioha.

Imo State’s political history since the return to democracy in 1999 has been marked by zoning sensitivities, legal battles, and shifting alliances across the three senatorial zones: Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu.

Achike Udenwa (1999–2007, PDP) from Orlu Zone laid early foundations. Ikedi Ohakim (2007–2011, PPA/PDP) from Okigwe Zone. Rochas Okorocha (2011–2019, APGA/APC) from Orlu. Emeka Ihedioha (briefly 2019–2020, PDP) from Owerri Zone, whose tenure was upended by the Supreme Court. Hope Uzodimma (APC, 2020–present) from Orlu Zone, now in his second term.

Anyanwu’s “my turn” rhetoric taps into longstanding sentiments, particularly within the Owerri Zone, which has produced fewer governors in the democratic era despite its demographic and political weight.

By invoking the legacies of Ohakim and Ihedioha, he frames his bid not as personal ambition but as equitable rotation and completion of an unfinished zonal cycle.

The declaration comes at a time of PDP rebuilding efforts nationally and in Imo State.

Anyanwu has navigated recent party turbulence, including expulsions and legal validations, yet retains recognition in key quarters as a key figure.

Critics may view the timing — with Uzodimma still in office — as premature politicking, while supporters see it as necessary early mobilization in a state where grassroots structures often determine outcomes.

The “Polling Unit Movement” name itself underscores a focus on the most basic electoral level, where votes are cast and, sometimes, contested.

Imo’s politics remains fluid. Other potential contenders from various parties and zones are expected to emerge, with zoning debates, performance assessments of the current administration, security concerns, and economic challenges likely to dominate the discourse.

Whether “Sam Daddy” can translate this momentum into a successful bid will depend on his ability to forge broad alliances, navigate PDP primaries (should he secure the ticket), and convince Imo voters that his extensive experience — from local government to the Senate and party leadership — equips him to deliver tangible development where predecessors have mixed records.

For now, the gauntlet is thrown. Imo’s political theater enters another act, with the 2027 elections still distant but the scripts already being written at polling units across the state.

The coming months will test whether Anyanwu’s claim resonates as destiny fulfilled or merely another voice in the chorus of ambition.