By Douglas Princemola
A political tsunami swept across Imo North Senatorial District on Monday as serving Senator Patrick Ndubueze delivered one of the most crushing victories in the history of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Okigwe Zone, completely overwhelming former Senator Ifeanyi Ararume in a dramatic show of political strength and grassroots dominance.
The fiercely anticipated APC senatorial primary election ended with Senator Ndubueze polling a staggering 108,829 votes, while Senator Ararume managed to secure only 79 votes from the final results collated across the six local government areas of the zone.
The outcome immediately sent shockwaves through the political atmosphere of Imo State, with party members and political observers describing the result as a clear indication of the changing political structure within Okigwe Zone ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Following the official declaration, Senator Ndubueze emerged as the APC flag bearer for Imo North Senatorial District, positioning himself strongly for another electoral battle in 2027.
The primary election, which attracted enormous public attention, witnessed massive participation of APC members, stakeholders, women groups, youths, and supporters across Isiala Mbano, Onuimo, Okigwe, Ehime Mbano, Ihitte-Uboma, and Obowo local government areas.
From the early hours of the day, party faithful trooped to designated centres in large numbers, creating an atmosphere charged with political excitement and anticipation. In many communities, supporters openly expressed confidence that Senator Ndubueze would emerge victorious based on what they described as his visible presence, empowerment initiatives, and political accessibility across the district.
At the zonal collation centre situated at the Okigwe Local Government Headquarters, tension filled the air as electoral officials finalized the results from the various councils. The APC Electoral Committee Chairman, accompanied by committee members from Abuja, officially announced Senator Ndubueze as winner of the exercise to deafening cheers from jubilant supporters.
Immediately after the declaration, celebrations erupted across different communities in Okigwe Zone. Supporters poured into the streets singing solidarity songs, waving party flags, and celebrating what many called “a victory for the people.”
In several parts of the zone, residents described the outcome as a reflection of Senator Ndubueze’s growing popularity and expanding political structure across Imo North. Many supporters insisted that the result demonstrated the confidence reposed in him by APC members throughout the district.
Political analysts believe the outcome has now reshaped the power dynamics within the APC in Imo State, especially in Okigwe Zone where Senator Ndubueze has continued to build strong grassroots support since assuming office.
Observers also noted that the huge margin recorded in the primary may strengthen the APC’s confidence heading into the 2027 general elections, as the party seeks to maintain dominance in the senatorial district.
For many within the APC, the primary election was more than an ordinary contest — it was viewed as a direct test of political relevance, influence, and grassroots acceptance between two major political figures in Imo North. With the final figures now officially declared, supporters of Senator Ndubueze say the outcome has delivered a loud and unmistakable message across the political landscape of the state.
As preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections, all eyes are now expected to remain on Imo North Senatorial District, where Senator Patrick Ndubueze’s emphatic victory has already become the dominant political conversation across the zone.
