By Dan Ugwu.
Ever since he acquired power through the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Gov. Hope Uzodimma of Imo state has become the most unsettled leader in the country. His emergence as governor, which brought much opprobrium to his persona was to be a prelude to a governorship that has suffered much ignominy and intrigues.
From muffled grumbling to angry outburst, Imolites have always found one reason to critize the governor. Often times, he has appeared on the media for the wrong reasons. If there are efforts he has made to better the people, such has been received with mixed feelings.
Far from the people’s disgust, Uzodimma’s party; the APC in Imo has not allowed him to chew and swallow at same time. In the analysis of pundits, the governor seems to have launched himself into this tight corner by the division he allegedly created in the party.
Granted, the Imo APC was already led to ruins before his arrival through the quagmire starring Rochas Okorocha and Adams Oshiomhole, the major strikers of the debacle. Upon his emergence as Imo governor, Hope Uzodimma pitched tent with his CampHope; a handful of his supporters at the wake of the 2019 election.
When other APC camps in the state like the Rescue Mission, Destiny group and Uche Nwosu supporters made attempts to be adapted into the system, the governor rebuffed such fellowship and stuck to his gang. Immediately, the aggrieved elements in various shades and clothing emerged and consequently caved in to give him a good fight.
First, it was the leadership of the state party as it fluctuated between Malcolm Nlemigbo, loyal to Uzodimma and Dan Nwafor of Rochas camp. Eventually the court has ruled in favour of Dan Nwafor as the authentic leader of the party.
Secondly, the struggle for Okigwe North senatorial zone was in the picture. While Hope Uzodimma elected Frank Ibezim, the parallel group opted for Ifeanyi Ararume. At the long run, the court has ruled in favour of Ararume as the APC flag bearer in Imo North.
As it is now, the governor has lost grip of the three senatorial zones in Imo. While Rochas Okorocha takes charge of Imo West, Ararume will lead in Imo North, while the opposition party PDP is resident in Owerri zone.
Are these defeats enough? May be no. While the Philip Emeadi suit is gathering momentum at the Supreme Court, the elected LGA chairmen under Rochas are now dusting up to unlock their offices that have been under lock and key.
By the time this last group succeeds in taking over the local government structures, the governor maybe left with his aides. This will not be a joy ride especially for someone who is struggling to change an ugly narrative. Indeed, this is not how best to enjoy being a governor.
*Dan Ugwu is a Social Analyst; he writes from Owerri, Imo State
Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Dan Ugwu and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite. The World Satellite will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”
