One Piece: Who is Imu?

Following the latest spoilers for the upcoming issue of mangaka Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece series, one character is all fans are talking about. Of course, this character is Imu, the shadowy and enigmatic figure who is the World Government’s true leader. Likewise, this would make them the rulers of the series’ world as a result of being the organization’s head.

Understandably, longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike have heard of Imu’s recent exploits and want to learn everything they can about them. While there isn’t much confirmed information to go off of, fans do at least have a good idea of their identity. Firstly, it’s heavily speculated with significant evidence that Imu has been alive since the Void Century.

Key evidence supporting this is their familiarity with Nefertari D. Lily and their ability to recognize the Haki of Joy Boy. Both were key figures who were alive during this time. One Piece has also heavily suggested that Imu is actually Saint Nerona Imu of the First Twenty monarchs. As the founders of the World Government, this would also explain Imu leading the organization.

What is completely unknown about Imu is their appearance, as they have only been shown as a silhouette so far, as of this writing. However, it’s theorized that they are a woman, or at least have a feminine appearance, by virtue of taking over Lily’s body. This is speculated due to their apparent obsession with both Lily and her descendant, Nefertari D. Vivi, as well as other factors.

Arguably, the most significant aspect of Imu’s presentation in One Piece is that they are a completely hidden figure from the public eye. Ironically, they sit on and rule from the Empty Throne, which is advertised as a symbol of the idea that no one figure can rule the World Government. This further drives home just how hidden and shadowy a figure they are.

What are Imu’s powers and abilities in One Piece?

As mentioned above, recent interest in Imu has come from their role in the latest series spoilers for the upcoming chapter 1149. Within, they’re seen possessing Holy Knight Gunko’s body to the point where her physical characteristics change to apparently match Imu’s. This unique yet terrifying ability was first shown in chapter 1149, per the alleged spoilers.

Imu’s other abilities and powers have been touched on in One Piece, but not fully explored. For starters, they’re seemingly in possession of one of the Ancient Weapons, powered by Dr. Vegapunk’s Mother Flame. The use of this presumed Ancient Weapon was first shown when they ordered the total annihilation of the Lulusia Kingdom and the island it sat on.

Imu also has the ability to transform into a massive creature with both bestial and humanoid features. In this form, they can consume fire and possess an appendage with an arrowhead for a tip, which is powerful enough to even attack a Logia-type Devil Fruit user. However, the exact nature and origins of this ability (i.e., if it’s a Zoan-type Devil Fruit) are still unknown.

Imu is also capable of communicating telepathically with the Gorosei, first shown via their doing so with the late Saint Jaygarcia Saturn. Imu can also apparently grant the Gorosei immortality and can take it away to kill them, as seen in One Piece’s Egghead Arc. While these powers have only been shown in Saturn’s case, they presumably apply to all Gorosei and Holy Knights.

In summation

Trending

Imu is one of the most enigmatic and mysterious figures in Oda’s manga series. Little is definitely known about the World Government's leader; however, it can be said with relative certainty that they are Saint Nerona Imu of the First Twenty from the Void Century. Their apparent powers and abilities are mighty, such as direct control over their subordinates’ lives, the ability to grant immortality, and more.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback