Former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, and his political allies have pronounced the demise of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State following his resignation from the party.
In a press conference held in Owerri, Ihedioha’s loyalists and members of his ‘Rebuild Imo’ political group, who also parted ways with the PDP, declared that the party no longer holds sway in the state.
Ihedioha’s decision to exit the PDP in April triggered a wave of resignations among party stalwarts and supporters in Imo State. Addressing the media, Stanley Ekezie, a former ex-officio member of the South-East PDP, spoke on behalf of Ihedioha’s associates, expressing their unwavering confidence in the former governor’s leadership and democratic principles.
Ekezie emphasized the need to collaborate with other like-minded individuals and organizations to foster democracy and good governance in Nigeria. He highlighted the failure of the PDP to provide credible opposition to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), internal reforms, and adherence to its founding ideals as reasons for Ihedioha’s departure.
According to Ekezie, the mismanagement of party affairs in Imo State by the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) accelerated the party’s downfall in the state. He called on Imo citizens who share their vision for the state’s progress to unite in their pursuit of democratic ideals.
Reacting to the developments, Ikenna Onuoha, spokesperson for the National Secretary of the PDP, downplayed Ihedioha’s exit, stating that the party remains undeterred. Onuoha affirmed that the PDP in Imo State continues to function effectively with all its organs operational.
The rift between Ihedioha and the PDP underscores the evolving political landscape in Imo State, signaling a significant shift in power dynamics. As the state braces for forthcoming political developments, the ramifications of Ihedioha’s departure on the local political scene remain to be seen.
