South-East leaders and stakeholders have endorsed the governorship ambition of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, aspirant in Imo State, Chief Martin Agbaso, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The stakeholders gave their support at a South-East Leaders and Stakeholders’ Endorsement Forum organised in honour of Agbaso in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, Agbaso stated he was humbled by the magnitude of the gathering, noting that he initially had no idea the forum would attract such a large number of leaders and stakeholders.
The former Imo State governorship candidate said he had previously considered retiring from active politics to concentrate on his businesses and family, but persistent calls from political associates and stakeholders convinced him to reconsider.
Agbaso, who said he has served as chairman of several major companies, explained that his decision to return to politics was driven by a sense of responsibility and the belief that he still has a role to play in the development of Imo State.
He also recalled his long-standing political journey, saying he first contested for the Senate at the age of 32 and faced opposition because of his age.
According to him, his years of professional, political and business experience have now given him a broader understanding of leadership and public service.
Agbaso said he would formally declare his governorship ambition before the end of the year, promising to invite the stakeholders to the declaration.
He pledged that, if elected, his administration would be guided by integrity, accountability and respect for public resources.
The NDC candidate also expressed confidence that his emergence would be achieved through what he described as the will of God, saying he was encouraged by the support from people who had previously opposed him politically.
Agbaso thanked the leaders and stakeholders for their support, describing the endorsement as a source of joy and renewed commitment to public service.
Also speaking, the former speaker of Imo State house of assembly, Hon. Nnaemeka Maduagwu, said the South-East must adopt a new political strategy based on participation, justice, equity and development.
Maduagwu argued that the region could no longer afford to remain on the sidelines of national politics, stressing the need for greater participation in elections and government.
He described Agbaso as a politician with the education, experience, pedigree and capacity required to provide effective leadership in Imo State.
Maduagwu also cited Agbaso’s previous political experiences, particularly the controversies surrounding the 2007 Imo State governorship election, as evidence of what he described as past injustice that the people of the South-East should seek to correct.
He called on the people of the region to use the current political opportunity to promote justice, competence and equitable representation.
The former lawmaker said Agbaso represented a combination of competence, equity and patriotism, urging stakeholders to unite behind his political ambition.
