Owerri, Nov. 8, 2024 – Dr. Fabian Ihekweme has fired back against the Imo State Government’s claim that he demanded N500 million from Governor Hope Uzodimma to stop his criticisms of the administration, describing the allegation as baseless and “the dumbest” ever made against a citizen. According to a close source via WhatsApp, Ihekweme insists that the government itself had approached him, asking him to “name his price” in exchange for his silence—an offer he said he turned down.
“The idea that I asked for N500 million is laughable. If I’d made such a request, it wouldn’t have been publicized. In fact, it was the government reaching out to me, asking me to name my price, and I told them I want the governor to come back and lead properly,” Ihekweme allegedly stated, adding that his only motivation is to hold the administration accountable.
Ihekweme did not mince words in his response, especially when addressing Imo’s Commissioner for Information, Declan Emelumba, who had initially made the claims. Referring to Emelumba as an “ikwighikwighi” (owl) who “has run out of ideas,” Ihekweme accused him of hypocrisy. “This is the same Declan who, in 2018, claimed Sen. Hope Uzodinma was unfit for governorship. Now he’s out here reaping where he didn’t sow,” he charged.
Emelumba and Ihekweme Trade Blows Over Alleged Extortion
The feud between Ihekweme and the Imo State Government has intensified in recent days, following accusations from Emelumba that Ihekweme demanded N500 million to “cease fire” on his media criticisms. Emelumba claimed that Ihekweme even provided Opay account details for travel expenses to Lagos for a potential meeting to “seal the deal,” sparking public discourse on the motivations behind Ihekweme’s vocal opposition to Uzodimma’s administration.
Ihekweme, however, vehemently denies seeking any financial gain, asserting that he has “never asked anyone for a dime” and that his crusade is solely for the benefit of “Ndimo” (Imo people). He further vowed to “expose” members of the administration whom he believes are exploiting the state’s resources.
Escalating Tensions and the Impact on Imo Politics
This latest exchange has added fuel to a long-standing conflict between Ihekweme and the current administration, a relationship that has soured following his exit from his role as Commissioner for International Affairs. Ihekweme’s allies suggest he is poised to unveil allegations about the administration’s inner workings, signaling more turbulence ahead for the Uzodimma government.
Emelumba, meanwhile, maintains that Ihekweme’s criticisms lack substance and serve only to distract from the governor’s progress. He previously described Ihekweme as “an extortionist and blackmailer,” stating that the administration would never entertain his alleged demands.
