… _As Imo APC Chairman Warns Against Undemocratic conducts in Primaries_
Date: 16-08-2024
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State has scheduled its primary elections for the 24th of August, 2024, as part of preparations to choose the party’s candidates for the upcoming Local Government elections set to take place next month. This announcement was made by the State Party Chairman, Hon. MacDonald Ebere, PhD, during a crucial meeting with the party’s Local Government Chairmanship and Councillorship aspirants at Imo APC State Secretariat.
Hon. Ebere commenced his remarks by delivering warm greetings from the Governor of Imo State and the leading figure of the party, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, who assured the aspirants that all modalities has been put in place to ensure free , fair and credible primaries. He explained that the primary election date was rescheduled to ensure the party is thoroughly prepared for the exercise, emphasizing the importance of a well-organized primary.
The Chairman also addressed a pressing concern among aspirants—extortion. He strongly advised the Chairmanship and Councillorship hopefuls to be cautious of party leaders, executives, and members who might attempt to exploit them with false promises of securing their victory or candidacy in the primaries. Hon. Ebere reassured the aspirants that the outcome of the primaries would be determined solely by the electorate, not by any underhanded tactics or influence.
In a clear message, he stated that Governor Uzodimma has not endorsed or instructed anyone to submit names for candidacy considerations, urging aspirants to ignore individuals who falsely claim to have the Governor’s backing or that of any state party leader. Furthermore, he warned that any party leader found guilty of attempting to influence or obstruct any aspirant would face strict disciplinary actions from the party.
Regarding the contentious issue of zoning, Hon. Ebere reiterated that the decision to adopt zoning practices lies solely with the various clans within a ward, rather than with the party. While the APC supports zoning arrangements, he made it clear that the party would not enforce such policies, as every member retains the right to vote and be voted for. He issued a stern warning that any aspirant found guilty of intimidating, humiliating, or otherwise obstructing the efforts of fellow aspirants would face immediate disqualification by the party.
As he concluded his speech, Hon. Ebere urged the aspirants to prioritize the interests of the people they seek to represent. He passionately advised them to focus on what they can do for their communities if elected, rather than pursuing selfish interests. The Chairman expressed confidence in the party’s success in the upcoming Local Government elections, drawing parallels to the overwhelming victory of Governor Uzodimma in the recent gubernatorial election, where the Governor won in all 27 Local Government Areas of the state. He firmly believes that the APC’s Chairmanship and Councillorship candidates will similarly triumph, solidifying the party’s position as the dominant political force in Imo State.
The forthcoming primary elections are expected to be a crucial step in the party’s efforts to maintain its stronghold in Imo State as it gears up for the Local Government polls.
*©️ JULIAN CHIJIOKE*
