The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State is poised to announce its chairmanship and councillorship candidates for the September 21 local government election next week, amidst allegations of hand-picking.
Governor Hope Uzodimma’s announcement that candidates would emerge through consensus has sparked intense lobbying among chairmanship and councillorship aspirants.
However, some aspirants have cried foul, accusing party leaders in some LGAs of favoritism and extortion in some local governments.
Some Sole Administrators, who are also aspirants, have been accused of using their positions to influence the selection process, seeking to be nominated as candidates.
Party sources reveal to INNONEWS that the governor is inclined to choose close allies and associates as Chairmen, while party leaders will select Councillors.
The APC constitution provides for direct or indirect primary in local governments where consensus is not possible, but allegations of hand-picking has raised concerns about the transparency of the process.
Aspirants have embarked on intense lobbying, seeking endorsement as candidates, while some party leaders in some LGAs face allegations of extortion and favoritism.
The APC leadership has yet to respond to the allegations, fueling further controversy.
The possible emergence of candidates next week will be a significant milestone in the party’s preparations for the local government election.
A party chieftain from Okigwe zone, Nkemdirim Onyewu told this newspaper that the controversy surrounding the selection process has raised questions about the party’s commitment to transparency and fairness.
He said “The APC must address these concerns to maintain credibility and ensure a level playing field for all aspirants.
“The party’s handling of the selection process will have implications for its performance in the upcoming election” he said.