Top 10 Richest Politicians In Imo State

Let’s be real for a second—when most people hear “Imo State,” they immediately think of vibrant culture, proud traditions, Owerri nightlife, or perhaps the finest palm wine in eastern Nigeria. But there's a whole other layer of Imo that a lot of folks don’t talk about as often: money, and more specifically, political money. The type of wealth that doesn’t just sit quietly in a bank account—it drives convoys, funds private jets, and builds empires.

Today, we’re taking a bold, humorous, and honest look at the top 10 richest politicians in Imo State. This isn’t just a list filled with figures and boring statistics. No, no. You’re getting the full gist—the money trail, the business ventures, the political clout, and of course, the personalities behind the fortune.

So, sit back, grab a chilled drink, and enjoy this political edition of Who Wants To Be A Billionaire – Imo Version.

1. Rochas Okorocha – The Grand Master of Political Wealth

Let’s not even pretend. Rochas Okorocha is the godfather of political wealth in Imo State. The former governor, senator, presidential aspirant, and founder of the Rochas Foundation has made a name for himself in both public service and private business.

Rochas' wealth is no urban legend. He has his hands in everything—real estate, education, philanthropy, media—you name it. His Rochas Foundation College has schools across Nigeria, and word on the street is that his real estate portfolio could make even seasoned property tycoons jealous.

How much is he worth? While no one knows the exact figure (because, well, you know how Nigeria works), industry estimates place him around $1.4 billion. Yep, billion with a B. From his flashy lifestyle to his larger-than-life personality, Rochas isn’t just rich—he’s legendary.

2. Pascal Dozie – The Banker Who Walked into Politics

Next up, we have someone who proves that you don’t always need political office to be a political heavyweight. Pascal Dozie is one of Imo’s finest exports to the Nigerian banking sector. He founded Diamond Bank (now merged with Access Bank) and served on the board of MTN Nigeria.

His wealth? Reportedly over $1.1 billion, and unlike some others, a good chunk of it is traceable to well-established businesses. Pascal is the guy who built things from scratch, didn’t need noise, and now enjoys quiet billions. In the Imo political space, he’s the go-to financier, influencer, and respected elder. A political kingmaker, even if he doesn’t hold an official title.

3. Leo Stan Ekeh – Mr. Tech Meets Influence

Ah yes, Leo Stan Ekeh—the genius behind Zinox Computers and Konga. While he’s more commonly referred to as a tech entrepreneur, make no mistake: his influence in the political corridors of Imo State and Nigeria at large is solid.

Leo is worth an estimated $350 million to $450 million, thanks to his innovation in the Nigerian tech industry. But what makes him political royalty is his ability to operate behind the scenes—supporting campaigns, advising governments, and advocating for local tech empowerment.

He’s the cool uncle at the family meeting who says nothing for 45 minutes, then drops one sentence that changes the entire conversation. That’s Leo for you.

4. Tony Ezenna – From Drugs (Pharma) to Riches

Before you panic, no, not those drugs. Tony Ezenna is the founder of Orange Drugs Limited—the pharmaceutical and cosmetics empire that brought us brands like Delta Soap and Procold.

Tony, like many wealthy businessmen, eventually made his way into the political scene—not necessarily as a front-line politician, but as a major financier and influencer. And when you have an estimated net worth of $450 million, politicians tend to listen when you speak.

From philanthropic gestures to support for development projects in Imo, Tony’s wealth speaks as loudly as his products sell.

5. Hope Uzodinma – The Current Governor with an Oil Trail

Now here’s someone currently in the driver’s seat. Governor Hope Uzodinma isn’t new to wealth. Before becoming the governor of Imo State, he was a successful businessman in the oil and gas sector through his company, Smiec Engineering.

With over two decades of influence in federal politics, including stints in the Senate, Uzodinma’s estimated net worth sits comfortably between $70 million and $200 million.

He’s a political tactician with deep pockets, and if you follow Nigerian politics, you know that those two qualities together can be very effective.

6. Emeka Ihedioha – Short Stay, Long Money

Emeka Ihedioha’s tenure as governor may have been brief (courtesy of Nigeria’s ever-dramatic Supreme Court), but don’t be fooled—his influence and wealth are deep-rooted.

As a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka built relationships that extended beyond the chambers. He has interests in agriculture, logistics, and real estate. His net worth is estimated to be between $25 million and $150 million.

He may be calm and collected, but don’t mistake that for financial modesty. This man is living very well.

7. Arthur Nzeribe – The Late Billionaire Politician

Though he passed away in 2022, you simply can’t talk about wealthy politicians from Imo without mentioning Arthur Nzeribe. A senator and political maverick, Arthur was one of Nigeria’s earliest political bigwigs to blend politics with private sector wealth.

With interests in construction, oil, and import/export businesses, his estimated net worth before his passing was around $1.1 billion.

He was known for his lavish lifestyle, offshore assets, and mysterious aura. In many ways, Arthur was the template for “old money” politicians in Nigeria.

8. Ifeanyi Ararume – The Political Phoenix

You know how some politicians disappear for a few years, then return like they never left? That’s Ifeanyi Ararume. He’s been contesting, re-contesting, and occasionally winning elections since forever.

Outside politics, Ararume has built wealth in oil servicing, agriculture, and real estate. His estimated net worth ranges from $10 million to $200 million—depending on which of his companies you’re looking at.

He might not always win the political race, but his financial race? He's miles ahead.

9. Bright Nwanne – Silent Billionaire Moves

Not many people talk about Bright Nwanne these days, but that’s mostly because he prefers it that way. The former Third Republic senator has been quietly building wealth through real estate and agro-based industries.

He’s not always in the political headlines, but when it comes to development and business in Imo, his name pops up frequently. With an estimated worth of about $100 million, Bright lives up to his name financially—even if he keeps things dim in the spotlight.

10. Cubana Chief Priest – The Hospitality Politician

Yes, he’s loud. Yes, he’s controversial. But Cubana Chief Priest, born Pascal Okechukwu, is more than just an Instagram sensation. He’s deeply involved in local politics, and his connection with top politicians in Imo is no secret.

Through his ventures in hospitality, nightlife, and brand endorsements, he’s amassed a wealth estimated between $20 million and $100 million.

He’s proof that political influence now comes in many forms. Whether it's through ballots or bottles, Pascal has made himself a household name—and a very wealthy one at that.

📊 Summary Table

Final Thoughts – Power + Money = Political Legacy

So what did we learn from this tour through Imo’s political billionaire club? A few things stand out:

• Business before (or alongside) politics is key. These men didn’t rely solely on their salaries.

• Influence isn’t only in government houses—some of the richest political influencers in Imo don’t hold public office.

• Old money like Nzeribe’s blends with new-wave wealth like Cubana’s—making Imo a fascinating case study of generational political wealth.

This isn’t just a “rich list.” It’s a reality check, a mirror of how Nigeria’s power structure often intertwines with business. Whether you find it inspiring, frustrating, or downright entertaining, one thing is clear: in Imo State, politics isn’t just a calling—it’s a capital investment.