While I am expected to finish this topic by next edition, I was challenged to give examples using one of the early birds that have so far either rumoured to be interested or has declared to be interested in the number one position in the state.
Following that demand, I decided to use one of the first persons who showcased his desire to be next governor of Imo State, Humphrey Anumudu, as a test case. Anumudu has not publicly declared but I need no soothsayer to inform the public that the business mogul is packed to be running. I have noticed his earpiece advertorials in few local media houses including Trumpeta and a billboard stationed at his supposed campaign office, on Okigwe road, Owerri, near the PDP office.
Interestingly, Anumdu, a lawyer by profession after he graduated from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, in early 90s claims to be Onye Ma Uzo in his Imo Hope 2015 agenda.
Obviously, Anumudu, who hails from Obilubi in Obazu Mbieri LGA could be accepted by Imolites if his antecedents in politics are anything to go by. For the sake of zoning, Anumudu would have been the maiden governor of Imo when our nascent democracy debuted in 1999. He not only ran an effective campaign machinery that endeared him to Imo people but also emerged tops during PDP primaries of 1998. However, he was said to have been cowed by prevalent zoning system to favour candidates from Orlu one, where the eventual winner, Achike Udenwa emerged.
It was only zoning that stopped Anumudu in 1999. Now that the clamour favours Owerri zone where Anumudu comes from, he could be accepted for the plum position.
Since Imo is a sensitive state with a reasonable percent made up of enlightened personalities and considering its egalitarian nature, politicians and office seekers without dint are highly welcomed. Except for what the public knows about, I am aware that Anumudu is a successful businessman who manages men and materials to an excellent point. In my quest to probe into the past of the Obazu-Mbieri born politician who has unassuming mien, I discovered that he comes from a well known family back ground with record of excellence in Mbieri land.
The Anumudus are household names in the area. I also found out that he is chairman and Chief executive officer of a conglomerate involved in transport sector, property leasing and handling. He is chairman First Motors, that sells new brand of cars. Anumudu has First City Estate, property management and real estate constituents with interest that spans the country. It is a well known fact that HAT, an international transport firm is an acronym from Humphrey Anumudu Transport. With these armada of outfits, can’t he be qualified to be accepted to replace Okorocha in 2015?
