PERSONALITIES
Full List: The 20 Most Influential Politicians in Imo State 2026
(Full List) The 20 Most Influential Politicians in Imo State 2026
As the countdown to the general elections gathers pace, political activities in Imo State have intensified, with major political figures consolidating their structures, strengthening alliances, and positioning themselves for the next electoral battle.
From Owerri to Abuja, a handful of influential politicians continue to dominate the political landscape through their control of party structures, public offices, grassroots networks, and years of political experience. While new faces are emerging, many established political heavyweights remain at the center of decision-making across the state.
After reviewing current public offices, electoral influence, party leadership, political experience, and statewide relevance, Media Today Nigeria presents its editorial list of the 20 Most Powerful Politicians in Imo State in 2026.
The 20 Most Powerful Politicians in Imo State (2026)
1. Senator Hope Uzodimma
Governor of Imo State and leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. His position as governor places him at the center of political decision-making.
2. Senator Rochas Okorocha
Former Governor of Imo State and former Senator. He remains one of the state’s most recognizable and influential political figures.
3. Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha
Former Governor of Imo State and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. He continues to command a loyal political following.
4. Senator Ifeanyi Ararume
Veteran politician, businessman, and former Senator with decades of political influence.
5. Senator Osita Izunaso
Serving Senator representing Imo West and one of the leading APC figures from the state.
6. Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. Although he represents Abia State, his South-East leadership role gives him growing regional political influence.
7. Hon. Goodluck Nanah Opiah
Former Minister of State for Education, former Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, and influential APC leader.
8. Senator Frank Ibezim
Former Senator representing Imo North and a prominent APC stakeholder.
9. Dr. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba
Former Minister of State for Education and former presidential aspirant.
10. Prince Uche Nwosu
Former Chief of Staff to the Imo State Government and former governorship candidate.
11. Prince Eze Madumere
Former Deputy Governor of Imo State and respected political leader.
12. Senator Chris Anyanwu
Veteran journalist, former Senator, and one of the state’s most respected political figures.
13. Ikedi Ohakim
Former Governor of Imo State who remains active in political discussions.
14. Rt. Hon. Ugonna Ozurigbo
Former member of the House of Representatives with a growing political base.
15. Placid Njoku
Former Deputy Governor of Imo State and academic leader.
16. Chinyere Ekomaru
Deputy Governor of Imo State and one of the most influential female politicians in the state.
17. Marcelinus Nlemigbo
Senior APC leader and former State Chairman with extensive party organizational experience.
18. Martin Agbaso
Veteran politician and elder statesman with longstanding influence in Imo politics.
19. Hon. Henry Nwawuba
Former member of the House of Representatives and respected political stakeholder.
20. Hon. Jones Onyereri
Former federal lawmaker and influential political figure from Okigwe Zone.
Why These Politicians Matter
These leaders remain among the most influential in Imo State because they:
- Occupy or have occupied strategic elective and appointive offices.
- Command loyal grassroots political structures.
- Influence party decisions and candidate selection.
- Enjoy widespread name recognition across the state.
- Continue to shape political conversations ahead of the 2027 elections.
As the political atmosphere continues to heat up, alliances, endorsements, and possible defections could reshape the state’s power dynamics. However, these twenty personalities remain among the most influential names currently driving politics in Imo State.
Do You Agree With This List?
Who deserves to be in the Top 10?
Who should have made the list?
Share your opinion in the comments and join the conversation.


