By Tricia Iwuoha
It was a defining Saturday morning in Ohaji-Egbema, one charged with anticipation, pride, and purpose. The date, November 8, 2025, may well be remembered as the day a new political tide began to form in Imo State.
From the tranquil roads of Umuokanne, dignitaries, traditional rulers, and political stakeholders arrived in a steady stream at the country home of Chief Charles Orie, fondly called Akuatuegwu. The air was alive with chants, drumbeats, and admiration for a man whose name has become synonymous with generosity, leadership, and community transformation.
A GATHERING ROOTED IN PURPOSE
The meeting, billed as a strategic consultative session, quickly evolved into something deeper; a moment of collective conviction. From royal fathers to grassroots leaders, everyone present spoke with one voice: Chief Charles Orie should run for Governor of Imo State.
Their message was clear and resolute that Ohaji-Egbema, long marginalised and underrepresented, must now take its rightful place in Imo’s leadership narrative.
The atmosphere was thick with emotion as speaker after speaker rose to extol Chief Orie’s sterling qualities. Many recalled how his visionary leadership and philanthropy had brought light to communities long ignored. His name, they said, resonates beyond politics – it embodies compassion, competence, and credibility.
A LEGACY THAT SPEAKS LOUDLY
Chief Orie’s impact stretches far beyond the boundaries of Ohaji-Egbema. Over the years, he has funded educational scholarships, youth empowerment programs, and community-based infrastructural projects that have directly changed lives.
For many, however, his influence was best captured in one historic moment; the day he facilitated the visit of former President Ibrahim Babangida to Ohaji, an unprecedented feat that announced the area’s growing prominence under his guidance.
As one elder passionately declared, “Since 1999, no Imo governor has built a single state road in Ohaji. Our only visible projects are those initiated by NDDC and ISOPADEC. Yet, in our darkest times, Chief Orie has always shown up for us.”
REJECTING ZONING, EMBRACING COMPETENCE
The gathering also made a bold statement against the political zoning formula that often defines Imo politics. For them, leadership should not be about where one comes from, but about capacity, vision, and integrity.
In their words, Chief Orie represents “The Imo Project”, a movement for fairness, unity, and progress. He symbolizes equity for oil-producing communities and hope for millions who yearn for good governance.
THE MAN, HIS MISSION, HIS MOMENT
When Chief Orie finally spoke, his words carried both humility and conviction. His tone was calm but firm, the confidence of a man prepared for the task ahead. He thanked the people for their faith and assured them that his mission was not about power, but service.
“I have the vision, the network, and the commitment to move Imo State forward,” he said. “My connection with the Imo diaspora, my understanding of our local realities, and my relationship with people across all social classes give me the confidence to build a united and prosperous Imo.”
He reminded the gathering that true leadership is a calling, one that comes from God and assured them that he would make his official declaration at the right time.
A ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL
The meeting reached its climax at the palace of HRH Eze Emmanuel Asor (Odoziobodo II of Assa), where royal blessings were conferred upon Chief Orie.
In a solemn yet powerful display of unity, there surrounded by the traditional rulers, ancestral blessings were invoked upon Chief Orie. Each monarch reaffirmed their faith in his leadership and prayed for divine guidance and strength as he embarks on the journey ahead.
Among the royal fathers present were:
- HRH, Eze (Sir) E.C.N. Odunze, Eze Ukwu Chinyere of Obitti
- HRH, Eze M.C. Nwokoma, Okaaomee I of Umuokanne
- HRH, Eze Dr. S.A. Okwodu, Dike of Obuomadike
- HRH, Eze Barr. G.O.H. Ariaga, Nze Obi of Egbema
A MOVEMENT AWAKENS
As the crowd dispersed, the sentiment was unanimous, a new chapter was beginning for Imo State. In Chief Charles Orie, they saw not just a political aspirant but a people’s project – one that promises a leadership anchored on vision, unity, and inclusive development.
If the gathering in Ohaji-Egbema was any indication, then the call for Chief Charles Orie to lead Imo State is more than a political endorsement, it’s the echo of a people’s hope for a brighter tomorrow.
