Political Tension Grows in Enugu as Contest for Ministerial Seat Begins

After the resignation of Uche Nnaji as Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, the political atmosphere in Enugu State has become charged as top figures compete for his replacement in the Federal Executive Council.

Those believed to be in the running include former governors Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, as well as defence expert Dr. Davidson Nnamani. Each contender has strong political influence, experience, and regional backing, making the race an intense one.

While Chime and Nnamani are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ugwuanyi, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), still maintains close ties with key figures in the ruling party through the G-5 group of ex-governors. His relationship with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, is seen as an advantage that could improve his chances.

Political observers believe that Dr. Nnamani might have an edge due to his academic background and his reputation as a younger, strategic thinker. Nnamani, who holds a doctorate in Defence and Strategic Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy, hails from Isi-Uzo Local Government Area.

He is regarded as a grassroots politician with practical ideas and a growing political network.The ongoing debate over regional balance is also shaping the contest.

The last two ministers, Geoffrey Onyeama and Uche Nnaji, both came from the Enugu zone, leaving the Nsukka zone without ministerial representation since 1999.

Many residents and political stakeholders are now calling for the position to shift to Nsukka, which has the state’s largest voting population.

Former Governor Sullivan Chime, from Udi Local Government, is said to be lobbying party leaders quietly, while Ugwuanyi, from Udenu, is using his national influence to strengthen his chances.

The final decision rests with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is expected to consider political loyalty, regional balance, and competence in choosing Enugu’s next representative in his cabinet.

The outcome of this selection process will likely shape political alliances and power relations in the state in the coming months.