Chima Amadi Joins Action People’s Party, Declares Intention to Contest 2027 Imo Governorship

Task Manager

Mazi Chima Matthew Amadi has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 Imo State governorship election under the banner of the Action People’s Party (APP), marking a significant development in the evolving political landscape of the state. Amadi, popularly known as “Mazi Gburugburu,” made the declaration during a public ceremony held at Community Primary School, Umuekwenne, in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area.

The event attracted party members, supporters, community leaders, and political observers from across Imo State. At the gathering, Amadi officially subscribed to the membership of the APP, confirming the party as the platform on which he intends to pursue his governorship ambition. His declaration speech, delivered with strong rhetoric, framed his candidacy as part of a broader movement aimed at what he described as the “rescue” of Imo State from years of poor governance and declining public confidence.

In his address, Amadi painted a grim picture of the current condition of the state, arguing that Imo has fallen short of its potential despite its abundant human capital, fertile land, and history of enterprise. He lamented that the state, once regarded as a centre of innovation and education, has increasingly become associated with insecurity, decaying infrastructure, and economic stagnation. According to him, governance in Imo has been reduced to public relations and political messaging, while real issues affecting citizens remain largely unaddressed.

A major theme of Amadi’s speech was the disconnect between government claims and the lived realities of residents. He criticised what he described as an overreliance on slogans, signboards, and ceremonial project announcements, arguing that such gestures have failed to translate into meaningful improvements in healthcare, education, roads, and job creation. He said many communities continue to struggle with poor access to basic services, while trust in public institutions has steadily eroded.

Security featured prominently in Amadi’s remarks. He described the situation in parts of the state as one of persistent fear, noting that economic activities are often cut short due to safety concerns. According to him, businesses close early, families remain on edge, and communities experience uncertainty that discourages investment and social life. He argued that the inability of government to guarantee the safety of lives and property represents a fundamental failure of leadership.

Amadi also addressed the issue of poverty, insisting that widespread hardship in Imo is not the result of laziness among the people, but of policies that fail to reflect local realities. He cited the struggles of traders, artisans, graduates, and young people, many of whom, he said, are forced to migrate or engage in risky activities in search of survival. He described households where parents are unable to meet basic needs, calling for an economic framework that supports small businesses, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.

On infrastructure, Amadi criticised the condition of roads and public facilities across the state, arguing that poor maintenance has isolated communities and discouraged investors. He said public institutions that should symbolize dignity and progress have instead become symbols of neglect. He further described corruption and waste as entrenched problems, alleging that public resources are often captured by a small political elite at the expense of the wider population.

Explaining his decision to join the APP, Amadi described the party as a relatively untainted platform, free from what he termed entrenched political interests and godfatherism. He argued that the APP offers an opportunity for new political actors and ideas, particularly at a time when opposition politics in the state remains fragmented.

Outlining his proposed agenda, Amadi pledged to prioritise security reforms, economic empowerment through support for small and medium enterprises, infrastructure renewal, transparent governance, and policies aimed at restoring public trust. He concluded by calling on Imo residents to mobilise ahead of the 2027 elections and vote against what he described as failed leadership, urging citizens to “show a red card” to the current administration.

The declaration has generated mixed reactions among political commentators and citizens, with supporters viewing it as a bold step, while critics question the viability of the APP and Amadi’s long-term political strategy. As the 2027 election cycle approaches, his entry adds another layer to Imo State’s increasingly competitive political terrain.