Confusion and worry have gripped aspirants of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State as the party fails to announce a date for its primary elections, despite earlier announcements and assurances from the leadership.
The party had initially fixed August 22 for the primary exercise, but this was later shifted to August 24 without official confirmation, leaving aspirants and party faithful in a state of uncertainty.
Governor Hope Uzodimma’s silence on the matter has further fueled anxiety, with many speculating about the reasons for the delay.
Some aspirants believe that the delay may be connected to the Supreme Court judgment on the state governorship election, which has already been resolved in favour of the party.
The governor’s recent statements on the primary election process have only added to the confusion.
During a stakeholders’ meeting on July 31, Uzodimma declared that the election would be decided through a free and fair process by the people, emphasizing that no person shall emerge from his table.
However, during the celebration of his recent Supreme Court victory, the governor announced that there will be zoning to select those who will fly the party’s flag, explaining that the reason is to maintain peace and political stability in various LGAs.
Aspirants are worried that the delay and the governor’s statements may be indicative of a predetermined outcome, rather than a free and fair process.
The party’s failure to announce a date for the primary election has raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the process, with some aspirants expressing discomfort with the developments.
“We are confused and worried about the situation,” said one of the chairmanship aspirant from Owerri zone.
“We thought the governor would announce a date for the primary election after the Supreme Court judgment, but nothing has been said.”
Aspirants are calling for clarity and a clear timeline for the primary election to avoid further uncertainty and confusion.
“We want a free and fair process, and we want it now,” said another aspirant, who preferred to remain anonymous.
“We can’t continue to wait indefinitely for the party to announce a date for the primary election.”he said.