ABUJA, NIGERIA – The political landscape of the Owerri Zone has taken a significant turn as Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the widow of the late Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, formally entered the 2027 senatorial race.
On Thursday, May 7, 2026, supporters and associates of the former First Lady arrived at the Labour Party (LP) National Secretariat in Abuja to purchase the nomination and expression of interest forms for the Imo East Senatorial seat.
A Shift in Strategy
The move marks a major departure from her previous political affiliation. Mrs. Akeredolu, who sought the same seat under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2023 before withdrawing over internal party issues, recently defected to the Labour Party, describing it as a platform that aligns with her “progressive and people-focused” ideals.
Addressing questions regarding her decision to run in her state of birth after years in the South-West, she has remained firm in her identity as a daughter of Emeabiam in Owerri West. She has consistently argued that her marital ties to Ondo State do not diminish her right or responsibility to serve her home constituency in Imo State.
Focus on Health and Empowerment
As a long-term advocate for women’s health and a breast cancer survivor, Mrs. Akeredolu has indicated that her legislative agenda will prioritize healthcare reform, specifically focusing on affordable cancer treatment and maternal health services. Her camp has positioned her as a “bridge-builder” capable of bringing her experience as a governor’s wife to the floor of the Red Chamber.
Rising Competition in the LP
The purchase of her forms comes amid a surge of activity at the Labour Party headquarters, as the party prepares for its internal primary season. Analysts suggest that her entry into the race will provide a formidable challenge to the incumbent leadership in Imo East, as she leverages her national profile and grassroots connections in her native Owerri.
With the nomination forms now in hand, the former First Lady is expected to launch a formal campaign tour across the nine local government areas of the senatorial district in the coming weeks.
