I’m in the Senatorial Race to Win, Declares Madumere

Former Imo State Deputy Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate for Imo East Senatorial District, Prince Eze Madumere, has declared that he is in the race to win convincingly, expressing confidence in his political experience, track record and support among constituents.

Madumere, who represents Owerri Zone in the senatorial contest, made the declaration in an interview with journalists following his inclusion on the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) final list of candidates.

The former deputy governor said his ambition to move to the Senate was driven by the opportunities available to lawmakers to make laws, attract development projects and address the needs of their constituents.

According to him, the responsibilities of a deputy governor differ significantly from those of a legislator.

“There is a sharp distinction between being a Deputy Governor and a legislator. As a Deputy Governor, you are more like a spare tyre. You function at the discretion of the Governor. As a lawmaker, you have a lot of space to operate, you make laws, leverage on your contacts and attract developmental projects to your constituents,” he said.

Madumere described his political journey as a “Journey of Grace,” expressing optimism that he would achieve his senatorial ambition.

On the strength of the PDP in Imo State, the candidate described the party as an established political platform with a strong structure and the capacity to compete in the election.

He said the party had undergone reforms and attracted new members, adding that it was prepared to spring surprises across the country.

Addressing questions about divisions within the PDP, Madumere maintained that the party remained one family under its national leadership, identifying the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, as key figures in its leadership structure.

He also referenced the party’s “Rainbow Coalition,” which he described as an inclusive arrangement designed to accommodate different interests.

Asked how he intended to withstand the political influence of Governor Hope Uzodimma and the ruling structure in Imo State, Madumere said the electorate would determine the outcome of the election through the ballot.

He expressed confidence that voters would closely monitor the electoral process and insisted that electoral malpractice would not be allowed.

“Be rest assured, nobody will be allowed to rig this election,” he said.

The former deputy governor also dismissed suggestions that life outside political office had been difficult, saying he had continued to live modestly and manage his businesses in Nigeria and abroad.

“Nothing has changed,” he said.

On his plans for Imo East Senatorial District, Madumere disclosed that he had conducted a needs assessment of his constituents through an international organisation.

He said the exercise identified development priorities across communities in the district, adding that he was prepared to act on the findings if elected.

The PDP candidate described himself as the contender to beat, citing his experience, political background and previous public service assignments as reasons for his confidence.

“I am the man to beat in this election, with the support of my people of Imo East Senatorial District. I have the capability and capacity, the pedigree, the acumen and dexterity to deliver,” he said.

Madumere was born on July 4, 1964, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, and has family roots in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.

He studied management in the United States, including at San Jacinto College in Houston, Texas, and later attended the University of Houston and Texas Southern University, where he pursued business management studies. He also holds a master’s degree in History and International Studies from Imo State University.

Before returning to Nigeria, Madumere worked with KFC and PepsiCo in the United States for 13 years and later managed businesses in aviation, general trading and other sectors.

He was sworn in as Deputy Governor of Imo State following the impeachment of his predecessor, Sir Jude Agbaso, by the Imo State House of Assembly.

Madumere has also held political and administrative positions, including serving as chief of staff to a presidential adviser on inter-party relations.

He is now seeking to translate his experience in business and public service into representation for Imo East Senatorial District in the National Assembly.