Former First Lady Anyanwu-Akeredolu Declares For Owerri Zone Senate Seat

Mavis Opara

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has formally declared her intention to contest the Imo East (Owerri Zone) senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during a press briefing with journalists in Owerri on April 25, 2026, she said her ambition is driven by her love for the people and her desire to provide quality representation at the federal level, not personal gain.

“I am not looking for a meal ticket. I have the experience, I am resilient and focused, and I possess the leadership qualities required,” she said.

She expressed her readiness and commitment to contest under the Labour Party Nigeria, assuring constituents of effective representation if elected.

Popularly known as Ada Owerri, a title derived from her chieftaincy recognition, Anyanwu-Akeredolu said her leadership approach would be inclusive and people-oriented.

“I am coming with a different approach—one that carries everybody along and does not push people aside,” she stated.

She pledged to foster collaboration between the National Assembly, the Imo State House of Assembly and local government authorities to ensure grassroots development.

The Emeabiam-born public health professional also emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women in leadership, stressing that gender should not be a barrier to competence and service.

Speaking on healthcare, she raised concerns over the increasing rate of breast cancer among women, attributing the high mortality to lack of access to quality medical care and funding.

“Cancer is a catastrophic disease that requires deliberate government intervention and funding,” she said.

She promised to push for policies that would provide free and accessible breast cancer screening, treatment and awareness programmes across Owerri Zone, particularly at the primary healthcare level.

While commending the Imo State Government for the introduction of the Imo State Health Insurance Agency (IMSHIA) and ImoCare under Governor Hope Uzodimma, she noted that the scheme is currently limited in scope.

She called for an expansion of the programme to cover more serious health conditions and better serve vulnerable populations, especially in rural communities.

Anyanwu-Akeredolu also aligned herself with the principles of equity and fairness, noting that the agitation for Owerri Zone to produce the next governor of Imo State remains valid and should be pursued through democratic means.