In what appears a deft political move, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma bypassed political godfathers and big men in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State, in appointing Sole Administrators for the 27 local governments.
This departure from the usual consultation process has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns among some party chieftains in the LGAs.
According to multiple sources who spoke to INNONEWS, this is the second time the governor has ignored so-called godfathers in making appointments, a stark contrast to his first term when he appointed over 300 Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants, mostly nominated by APC bigwigs and leaders across the State.
The sudden change in style has been attributed to the governor’s perceived distrust of some of these party bigwigs who failed to deliver in the 2023 governorship election in the State despite receiving massive “resources for mobilization”
“They couldn’t deliver and could not account for the “logistics” given to them to mobilize victory for the party in their domains,” a source revealed.
The source further stated that “After the 2023 governorship election, it was observed that those who parade themselves as political alpha and omega in their various local governments failed woefully in their booths and wards despite the massive mobilization for them to win elections for the APC.”
“Before the governorship election held in November 2023, it was the same sad scenario during the presidential and National Assembly election.
“Most of them could not deliver and they could not account for resources given to them to mobilize victory for the party in their domains. It is very clear that they cannot deliver. They are mere paperweight politicians with little or no electoral value,” the source added.
“Instead, the governor has opted for individuals he believes possess the capacity, ability, and loyalty to aid him in translating his vision and programmes for the state.
“The newly appointed Sole Administrators are LGA monitors who played crucial roles during the gubernatorial election and lived up to expectations.
“Their appointments is mainly seen as a payback for their loyalty, commitment and dedication.
“The Commissioners list were mainly made up of those he can trust and who can aid him translate his vision and programmes for the State,” a source said.
Another source revealed that “The recent appointments made by the Governor, was hinged on his personal assessment of their capacity, ability and loyalty.
“Majority of them are LGA Monitors and they are loyal, party members and it is payback time for their loyalty.