APC Chieftain Backs Charles Orie for 2027 Imo Governorship, Urges Unified Support

A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State, Raymond Ekwruo, has thrown his weight behind the governorship ambition of Chief Charles Orie, calling on party leaders and residents to rally around him ahead of the 2027 election.

Speaking to South East Punch on Monday, Ekwruo—an APC loyalist from Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area and a retired Superintendent of Police—described Orie’s aspiration as timely and essential for the continued development of Imo State.

Ekwruo, who also previously served as Managing Director of the Imo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ISOPADEC), said Orie embodies the qualities Imo needs in its next governor: transparency, experience, and a deep passion for development.

“Chief Orie is a result-oriented leader with a strong track record. His time at ISOPADEC proved his commitment to uplifting oil-producing communities, even amid severe funding constraints,” Ekwruo stated. “His achievements are visible across the oil-rich regions, and he clearly understands what the state needs to move forward.”

He described Orie as a wise, action-driven businessman and leader who prioritizes results over rhetoric. “He is a man of few words but many results. If given the APC ticket, I am confident he will bring inclusive, accountable, and grassroots-focused governance to Imo,” Ekwruo said.

Calling on the APC leadership from ward to national level, Ekwruo urged party stakeholders to give Orie the opportunity to usher in a new era of governance centered on people-oriented policies.

He also appealed to the people of Ohaji/Egbema to unite behind Orie and rise above the “Pull-Him-Down” mentality that has hindered the area’s political progress in the past.

Ekwruo further commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for his developmental strides in Imo State and expressed optimism that Orie would consolidate and expand on those achievements if elected.

“Let’s give Charles Orie a chance to lead. With his proven integrity and developmental mindset, he can take Imo to greater heights,” he concluded.