-AS YOUTHS REJECT NDUBUEZE, ROOT FOR HIM
A frontline senatorial aspirant for Imo North (Okigwe) Senatorial District, Ike Kennedy Odoeme, on Sunday, May 3, 2026, stole the spotlight at a stakeholders’ meeting of the Okigwe Zone, organized by the Okigwe Global Elders Forum. The event took place at Protea Hotel, New Owerri, Imo State.
Speaking at the meeting, Professor Maurice Iwu explained that the gathering was necessary given the need for the zone to harmonize positions across key elective offices, including the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and the Senate.
The professor further noted that the meeting aimed to review a working document developed prior to the 2023 general elections, which led to the emergence of Senator Patrick Ndubueze as the representative of Okigwe Zone.
During the event, youths from the zone openly expressed strong support for Odoeme, applauding him enthusiastically while reacting negatively to remarks made by Senator Patrick Ndubueze.
The atmosphere became tense and rowdy at some point, as the noise from the crowd nearly prevented the senator from delivering his speech, despite repeated appeals from the forum’s leadership for order.
Observers described the enthusiastic reception given to Odoeme as a clear indication of growing youth support for his candidacy.
According to several youths present, Odoeme is widely regarded as liberal-minded, vibrant, and approachable, especially when compared to the incumbent senator, whom they criticized as being disconnected from young people.
They argued that Odoeme’s emergence would symbolize greater youth inclusion in governance, citing his accessibility and financial support for youth initiatives.
In contrast, they described Senator Ndubueze as being more focused on personal and family interests rather than broader constituency representation.
In his address, Odoeme outlined his vision and plans for the senatorial district if elected, emphasizing development and inclusiveness. He also provided financial support to assist with transportation for traditional rulers and other leaders who attended the meeting.
Notable attendees included HRM Eze Ohanweh, Professor Maurice Iwu, Barrister Ifeanyi Agwu, Chief Longers Anyanwu, Professor Nnamdi Obiaraeri, Engr. Chinedu Chukwuonye, Rt. Hon. Kennedy Ibeh, Engr. Chima Akuzie, Chief Mike Duru Ejiogu, Professor Christopher Eze, Dr. Anyaeze, Chief Chikwem Onuoha, among others.
