Former Minister of State for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Henry Ikoh, has expressed his intention to contest the Abia State governorship election in 2027. During an Easter celebration at his home in Ikwuano Local Government Area, Ikoh, a prominent businessman and All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart, addressed a gathering of party faithful and friends. Responding to calls from supporters urging him to run, Ikoh acknowledged their enthusiasm while emphasizing that it was premature to delve into campaign specifics. However, he affirmed his political ambition, stating his readiness to seize the governorship opportunity should it arise. Ikoh’s previous attempts to secure the governorship position underscore his persistent interest in leading Abia State.
Ikoh described the gathering as a celebration of unity, togetherness, and love, signifying the essence of the Easter season. He stressed the importance of local politics, emphasizing the role of the grassroots as the engine room of political power. By celebrating with his constituents, Ikoh reaffirmed his commitment to engaging with the local populace and acknowledging their influence in the political landscape. Furthermore, he expressed his conviction that the APC would emerge victorious in both the national and state elections in 2027, urging party members to remain steadfast in their support.
Chief Awa Jeremiah, the Abia State Coordinator of Team Wazobia Nigeria for Tinubu 2027, highlighted Ikoh’s extensive political experience, including his ministerial role and previous gubernatorial campaigns. Jeremiah voiced confidence in Ikoh’s leadership capabilities, emphasizing his potential to drive infrastructural development and industrial growth in Abia State. He underscored the importance of job creation, particularly for university graduates, and posited that Ikoh’s background as an industrialist would enable him to address the unemployment challenge effectively.
While acknowledging the ongoing infrastructural development under Governor Alex Otti’s administration, Chief Awa Jeremiah also raised concerns about the pervasive hunger in the state. He commended Governor Otti’s efforts in road construction and other infrastructural projects but stressed the need for a more comprehensive approach to governance that prioritizes the welfare of the people. Jeremiah argued that infrastructural development alone is insufficient, emphasizing the urgent need to address the widespread hunger and lack of job opportunities.
Jeremiah appealed to Governor Otti to focus on grassroots engagement and to seek federal assistance to alleviate the suffering of the people. He emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the electorate to secure their continued support. Jeremiah suggested that Governor Otti’s alignment with the APC could facilitate access to federal resources and strengthen the state’s development efforts. He pleaded with the governor to prioritize the fight against hunger and unemployment, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these issues with political stability and progress.
In summary, Henry Ikoh has signaled his intention to contest the 2027 Abia State governorship election, drawing on his political experience and support from within the APC. While acknowledging the incumbent governor’s efforts in infrastructural development, concerns have been raised about the pressing issue of hunger and unemployment. The call for a more holistic approach to governance underscores the need to prioritize the well-being of the populace, particularly the grassroots, while pursuing infrastructural and industrial growth. The political landscape of Abia State is poised for a dynamic contest in 2027, with Ikoh’s potential candidacy adding another layer of complexity to the race for the governorship.
