Governor Hope Uzodimma’s recent unveiling of a new cabinet has sparked a flurry of reactions, with both praise and criticism echoing across the state.
Following the dismissal of over 500 appointees three months prior, the Governor, last week forwarded a list of 12 Commissioner nominees to the Imo State House of Assembly for approval.
The nominees, subsequently screened by the House, include a mix of familiar faces and newcomers.
Among the retained Commissioners are Declan Mbadiwe Emelumba, Ralph Nwosu, and Mrs. Nkechi Ugwu, signaling the Governor’s confidence in their ability to further his administration’s agenda.
Enyinnaya Onuegbu, a former Commissioner for Lands and later Power, was also reinstated, assuming the role of Head of the Political Bureau and Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters.
Analysts interpret these appointments as a testament to the Governor’s commitment to continuity and trust in certain individuals to uphold his administration’s core principles.
However, the appointment of Commissioners has not been without controversy, particularly regarding zonal representation.
With eight out of the twelve nominees hailing from Orlu zone and two each coming from Owerri and Okigwe zones, concerns have been raised about equitable distribution and adherence to the principles of fairness and equity.
Critics argue that the recent disproportionate appointment of Commissioners by the Governor undermines the spirit of inclusivity essential for fostering unity and effective governance in the state.
Prominent political commentator in the State, Chief Donald Anyasodor condemned the apparent disregard for fair representation, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic ideals as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
On the other side of the spectrum, certain individuals and zones find themselves on the losing end of the cabinet reshuffle.
Some chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party, particularly some members of the State Working Committee, who decamped to the All Progressives Congress, APC, and were predominantly appointed as Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants during the Governor’s first tenure, were excluded.
This may keep them politically stranded.
The absence of Cyprian Akaolisa, a former Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General, and a notable ally of the Governor, in the new cabinet, raises eyebrows and fuels speculation about underlying dynamics within the administration.
Owerri Federal Constituency emerged as another notable loser, as it failed to secure any Commissioner nominee in the latest appointments.