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Chief Better Joseph Ekeh-Oniniwu and Sir Jude Ejiogu are at the heart of a defining political movement that could reshape Imo State’s leadership trajectory. Chief Ekeh, a renowned entrepreneur and respected diaspora leader, has consistently advocated for fairness in governance and has emerged as one of the strongest voices pushing for the Owerri Zone to produce the next governor. As Chairman of Adavinn Hotel & Suites, and CEO of Alaowerri Restaurant in London, his influence extends beyond business into community leadership, lending significant weight to his endorsement.
In line with this vision, Chief Ekeh has openly declared his support for Sir Jude Ejiogu, a seasoned technocrat from Umuakuru Emekukwu, Owerri North. Sir Jude’s academic journey—spanning Emekukwu High School, a B.Sc. in Monetary Economics from Lincoln University, Missouri, and an MBA from St. Thomas University, Texas—reflects intellectual depth and a global perspective. Coupled with his professional record in banking and governance, he is widely regarded as a candidate of competence and vision. Yet, despite his distinguished profile, Sir Jude’s career and political engagements have not been without controversies. In this no-holds-barred interview, Chief Ekeh steps forward to defend his choice, address lingering concerns, and make the case for why Sir Jude remains the best hope for Imo State’s future.
Here’s the full interview:
Chief Ekeh, your endorsement of Sir Jude Ejiogu has generated both excitement and skepticism. Given that some critics argue his political career has been marked by controversies and shifting alliances, what makes you so confident that he is still the right man to lead Imo State in 2027?
“Leadership is not a straight road; it is often shaped by seasons, alliances, and the realities of governance. What some call controversies, I call the experiences that mold a leader. Sir Jude has walked through the turbulence of Nigerian politics without losing his integrity, competence, or focus on service. My confidence in him comes not from wishful thinking but from years of watching him navigate both banking and government with a steady hand. If there is anyone who understands both the complexities of governance and the expectations of the people, it is Sir Jude Ejiogu.”
Sir Jude’s academic and professional pedigree is unquestionable, but opponents often claim that technocrats like him struggle to survive the rough terrain of Nigerian politics. How do you respond to those who say his brilliance may not necessarily translate into effective political leadership?
“True, politics in Nigeria can be rough. But we must ask: do we want gladiators who fight endlessly or technocrats who solve problems? Sir Jude is not just a technocrat; he is a technopolitician. He has proven his capacity to generate revenue for the state, manage institutions, and still build relationships across political divides. That is not weakness—that is wisdom. Imo needs less noise and more results, and Sir Jude brings exactly that.”
Chief Ekeh, critics often point to allegations that Sir Jude Ejiogu was involved in mismanaging or even siphoning over a billion naira during his time in government. This is a very serious charge. How do you, as someone openly promoting him for governor, respond to those who see him as tainted by corruption?
“Let me be very clear: those allegations were nothing more than politically motivated blackmail. If Sir Jude had truly stolen a billion naira, as his detractors claim, would he be walking freely today without a single conviction or indictment? The truth is, when you are competent and effective in government, enemies will fabricate lies to weaken you. Sir Jude is not only clean, but he has managed public resources with discipline and accountability. His record in both the banking sector and state governance speaks louder than any baseless rumor. My endorsement of him is rooted in facts, not gossip. Imo needs a governor whose integrity is intact, and that is exactly why I am standing firmly with him.”
Read also: Eze Obi Ejeshi Honors Chief Better Joseph Ekeh Oniniwu
One recurring criticism is that Sir Jude Ejiogu, despite his high-profile positions in government, has not always been able to leave a long-lasting legacy. As someone who has placed your credibility on the line for him, what specific accomplishments or qualities do you believe silence such criticisms?
“Legacies are not always measured in monuments; sometimes they are embedded in systems and reforms. As Chairman of the Board of Internal Revenue, Sir Jude modernized revenue generation in Imo. As Chief of Staff and later SSG, he ensured smoother coordination of government operations. These are foundational contributions, even if they don’t bear his name on a billboard. What he lacked was the ultimate platform of the governorship to institutionalize them fully. That is why 2027 is important — to allow him finish what he started.”
Some political stakeholders allege that Sir Jude has been too close to successive administrations and therefore represents continuity rather than change. How would you convince Imo people that his governorship would offer a genuine departure from the status quo?
“Yes, Sir Jude has worked with successive administrations. But that should be seen as proof of his competence, not complicity. Every governor, regardless of party, has found him indispensable because of his knowledge and loyalty to the state. The difference is that as governor, Sir Jude will not be an assistant to power — he will be the power, accountable only to the people of Imo. That is when his independence and true vision will shine.”
Chief Ekeh, beyond your personal endorsement, what structures, alliances, or grassroots movements are you putting in place to ensure that Sir Jude’s candidacy transcends controversies and becomes a unifying force for Imo’s diverse political landscape in 2027?
“My endorsement of Sir Jude is not just about one man; it is about the Owerri Zone finally taking its rightful place in leadership, after years of waiting. We are mobilizing grassroots structures, traditional institutions, and the diaspora community to rally behind him. Controversies fade, but competence remains. What we are building is a movement of inclusivity — not just for Owerri, but for Orlu, Okigwe, and every part of Imo. Sir Jude represents that unity, and I am fully committed to ensuring he emerges as the people’s governor in 2027.”
Chief Ekeh, thank you for granting us this candid and no-holds-barred conversation. You have spoken with conviction, defended Sir Jude Ejiogu with clarity, and outlined why you believe 2027 should mark a turning point for Imo. What final word do you have for Ndi Imo as the state approaches this critical election?
“Thank you as well for giving me this platform. My message to Ndi Imo is simple: the time has come for equity, competence, and unity to guide our choice of leadership. Sir Jude Ejiogu represents these values — a man of intellect, proven capacity, and unshaken integrity, despite all attempts to tarnish him. I stand by him not because of friendship or sentiment, but because I am convinced, he is the leader Imo needs at this decisive moment. To our youths, elders, women, and every stakeholder: 2027 is not just another election. It is an opportunity to reset Imo on the path of justice, development, and inclusive governance. And with your support, I believe we can achieve that through Sir Jude Ejiogu.”
