Governor Calls for Unity and Discipline Among APC Candidates in Imo State
In light of heightened tensions following the recent primaries, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has urged candidates seeking tickets for the Senate and House of Representatives under the All Progressives Congress (APC) to uphold principles of loyalty, discipline, and sacrifice. His comments came during a meeting held at the State House Banquet Hall in Owerri, as party primaries commenced on May 15, 2026.
Uzodimma characterized politics as a test of courage, warning candidates that it is not a game of chance: “Some people win and some don’t.” He emphasized the importance of steadfastness in party loyalty, stating that a commitment to the APC is essential before, during, and after the primaries. The governor highlighted the necessity of loyalty, declaring, “That’s what our partisan democracy demands.”
Addressing the risks associated with political aspirations, Uzodimma cautioned candidates to carefully consider their financial commitments. He advised, “If you can’t bear the risk, don’t buy forms with money that could be used for your children’s school fees,” urging a prudent approach to campaign financing.
To ensure transparency, the governor announced that the party would implement the Option A4 voting system during the primaries, which aims to mitigate accusations of favoritism should a consensus fail. He also underscored the need for fairness and respect for existing zoning principles within the community, framing these as essential for a successful and harmonious campaign.
Uzodimma lamented the large number of candidates vying for various positions, stating that an explanation for each application was necessary to facilitate a favorable outcome for both the state and the APC. “We do not want Imo State to return to Egypt,” he lamented, reflecting concerns about political backsliding.
Chief Austin Onyedebele, the state chairman of the APC, reaffirmed the party’s focus on unity and reconciliation, noting that initiatives have been introduced to enhance organizational efficiency and service. Acknowledging the grievances stemming from the primary process, Onyedebele mentioned the activation of a reconciliation mechanism to promote harmony among party members.
During the meeting, several senatorial aspirants, including Senators Osita Izunaso, Patrick Ndubueze, and Ezenwa Onyewuchi, pledged their loyalty to the APC leadership at both state and national levels, aligning their discussions with the party’s core principles. Representatives from the House of Representatives, including Hon. Princess Miriam Onuoha and Hon. Amara Iwanyanwu, echoed similar sentiments, affirming their dedication to supporting whatever decisions the party makes for the welfare of its members. They displayed unwavering trust in the leadership of Governor Uzodimma as the party prepares for the upcoming elections.
The meeting was attended by key figures including Deputy Governor Mrs. Chinyele Ekomaru, Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly Mr. Chukwuma Ekomaru, and former Deputy Governor Mr. Chike Orembe among others. Together, they represented a united front as candidate and party leaders work in tandem toward electoral success in Imo State.
