Dr. T. J. Ehirim has reiterated his intention to become the next Governor of Imo State, insisting that the time has come for competent, compassionate and credible leadership driven by merit rather than political muscle or sentiment.
Ehirim made the declaration on Monday, December 29, while delivering a keynote address at the 2025 Isu Nation Christmas Conclave. He spoke on the theme: “An Autochthonous People Determined to Birth Their Next Stage of Life Politically, Economically and Culturally for the Good of All; The Return of Ikenga.”
Addressing a large gathering of sons and daughters of Isu Nation, Ehirim described Isu Nation—comprising Isu, Njaba, Nwangele, Nkwerre and Orlu Local Government Areas—as one of the largest federal constituencies in Nigeria, lamenting that despite its enormous human capital and historic contributions, no indigene has ever governed Imo State.
“We must send a clear message to our compatriots and neighbours that Isu Nation is ready to lead,” he said. “We have served this state for centuries. We are no longer meant only for the lower rungs; we are prepared for the highest responsibility.”
He noted that Isu Nation has produced prominent Nigerians who have distinguished themselves nationally and internationally in academia, politics, business, sports and administration. Among those mentioned were Inyanga Eziama, E.C. Ikemezie, SMC Ihekwuazu of Amaigbo, Ozuome of Ekwe, Hon. Mrs. Veronica Nnaji, legendary boxer Dick Tiger Ihetu, and the historic King Jaja of Opobo from Umudueuoha, Amaigbo.
Ehirim stressed that his ambition is driven by a genuine desire to alleviate the suffering of the people and reposition Imo State for sustainable development.
“I have a lot in mind to do for the people of Imo State and Nigeria, and the power to do that lies in governance,” he said. “I want to put smiles on the faces of our people. I have travelled widely and learned lessons that will help me deliver purposeful leadership.”
Presenting his credentials, Ehirim described himself as a “son of the soil,” rooted in Isu clan and groomed by village values of humility and loyalty. He argued that Imo State needs leadership based on competence rather than connections.
“In the past, leadership was about who had muscles or influence. Now is the time for the best among us to lead,” he said. “I want to be a governor made by the people, for the people. The Scripture says when the righteous rule, the people rejoice—and that is what I intend to offer.”
Rejecting zoning and rotation as guiding principles for leadership, Ehirim maintained that competence should be the ultimate. He said he is offering himself under the banner of “competence, compassion, credibility and capacity,” adding that no Isu man has ever governed Imo State.
“Therefore, it is my turn to be the next governor of Imo State,” he declared.
Ehirim also highlighted his international exposure and professional achievements, noting that he worked at the highest levels of public service in South Africa, managed major healthcare responsibilities, and established companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. He said his experiences strengthened his passion for economic empowerment and social transformation.
“I have seen how societies lift the most downtrodden and empower them economically. I want to do this for my people before I die,” he said.
The event attracted notable dignitaries, including the President General of Isu Nation, Prof. Bathos Nwadike; Vice President of Isu Nation Convention, Echi Ken Ndukwu; Chairman of the occasion and President of Orlu Regional Assembly (USA), High Dr. Albert Okunwa; members of the Federal House of Representatives from Njaba, Nwangele, Nkwerre and Isu; Chairman Board of Trustees of Owerri Municipal Mandate, Vitalis Ajumbe; Labour Party chairmen from Njaba, Isu and Oguta LGAs; PDP stalwart Hon. Nnamdi Nwosu; Apostle David Ehirim; as well as Ehirim’s family members; his younger brother Traditional rulers in Diaspora, Engr. Bid Ehirim, mother, sister, among others and the Project T. J. Ehirim team.
In their goodwill messages, speakers described Ehirim as a son in whom they are well pleased, expressing confidence in his ability to pilot the affairs of Imo State.
Born and educated in Imo State, Dr. Ehirim attended St. Augustine’s Grammar School, Nkwerre, where he emerged as the best graduating student. He studied Medical Pharmacy at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and later obtained professional certifications from the South African Pharmacy Council and the South African Qualifications Authority. He also earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from a Johannesburg-based business school.
He began his professional career at the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, where he finished as the best graduating intern and received an automatic federal appointment. He completed his National Youth Service at the State Specialist Hospital, Ekiti State, before relocating to South Africa, where he became the first Black professional to manage the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the country’s largest hospital.
Dr. Ehirim has received numerous awards for professional excellence and community service, further strengthening his profile as he positions himself for the Imo governorship race.
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