A political contest has begun over who will replace the former minister of innovation, science and technology, Uche Nnaji, following his resignation from office.
According to a report by Vanguard on Saturday, the leading contenders include former governors Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, as well as defence strategist Davidson Nnamani.
While Mr Chime and Mr Nnamani are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ugwuanyi, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is said to be relying on his ties with the pro-Tinubu G-5 bloc to boost his chances.
Political observers say the appointment will likely take into account both party affiliation and the existing zoning arrangement in Enugu State.
The Enugu bloc, which produced the current governor Peter Mbah, has held key ministerial positions in recent years, with both Geoffrey Onyeama and Uche Nnaji coming from the area.
In contrast, the Nsukka bloc, which makes up more than half of the state’s voting population, has not produced a minister since 1999.
Davidson Nnamani, from Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, holds a PhD in defence and strategic studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and has been active in grassroots politics within the APC.
Sullivan Chime, who governed Enugu State from 2007 to 2015, is reportedly consulting party leaders in Abuja to advance his bid, while Ugwuanyi, who served from 2015 to 2023, is said to be banking on his relationship with FCT minister Nyesom Wike.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to make the final decision on the appointment after considering political loyalty, zoning balance and competence.
