— Governor Peter Mbah Reportedly Tipped As Possible Successor
Fresh indications have emerged of an alleged move by some governors within the APC Governors’ Forum to replace the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, as Chairman of the Forum, with Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah reportedly being considered as a possible successor.
The development is said to have followed recent controversies surrounding allegations of the misappropriation of ₦800 billion reportedly linked to the Forum, although no official finding has established wrongdoing against Uzodinma or the Forum.
A source in Abuja, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed that governors backing the move are determined to effect a leadership change and are allegedly seeking the support of the Presidency.
According to the source, “The Presidency does not appear pleased with recent developments. Unlike before, when Governor Uzodinma was believed to wield considerable influence in the South-East and enjoyed frequent access to Aso Rock, his influence is now perceived to have diminished. This may explain why he has been spending more time in Imo State in recent months.”
The source further alleged that another issue weighing on the governor is the political contest involving his preferred candidate, Ndubueze, and Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, with whom he has had political disagreements in the past.
“He believes that an Ararume victory over Ndubueze would constitute a major political setback for him,” the source claimed.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the APC Governors’ Forum, the Presidency, Governor Uzodinma, nor Governor Peter Mbah had issued any official statement regarding the claims.
