The Mazi Organization (TMO) has responded to alleged attempts to pit it against the Catholic Church through what it describes as “deliberate falsehoods.”
Speaking during a press conference held on Tuesday in Owerri, May 13, 2025, TMO’s spokesman, Cajetan Duke, decried the actions of certain individuals, accusing them of fabricating stories aimed at undermining the reputation of TMO and its principal, Dr. Chima Matthew Amadi.
Duke emphasized TMO’s grassroots approach and its commitment to fostering a new socio-economic development paradigm in Imo State.
“TMO believes that achieving our goals of transformational change requires the active participation of the masses in the political process. We are determined to ensure the emergence of effective and productive leadership in the state,” he stated.
The spokesman highlighted TMO’s ongoing engagement with Imo people, aimed at inspiring a “dedicated new beginning” for the state.
He described Dr. Amadi as a visionary leader who understands the yearnings of the people and is prepared to restore the “lost Imo Dream” with sacrificial and courageous leadership.
However, Duke raised concerns over what he called “the dissemination of deliberate falsehoods on social media” by certain individuals uncomfortable with the positive momentum generated by TMO’s engagements.
He accused a known instigator and an aide of Governor Hope Uzodimma, Mr. Collins Opuruozor of using pseudonyms to spread lies about Amadi, including a recent attempt to portray him as being opposed to the Catholic Church.
Duke cited one of the false publications, titled “Is Chima Matthew Amadi the Antichrist?” which claimed that Amadi had called for the abandonment of the Catholic Church and promised to turn its churches into nightclubs if elected governor.
“This is desperation at its peak. No one with basic intelligence would believe such an absurd story,” Duke said.
He described the Catholic Church as a sacred institution that transcends partisan politics.
“The Church is a body of Christ that promotes spiritual guidance, community service, and social justice. TMO has the utmost respect for the Church and recognizes its vital role in shaping our communities,” he added.
Duke also reaffirmed that Amadi is a proud Christian who respects all faiths and supports freedom of worship.
“He is not a fanatic of his faith or denomination. Dr. Amadi feels at home in any House of God and respects every person’s right to worship as they see fit,” he explained.
While noting that the Catholic Church has chosen not to respond to these allegations, Duke revealed that TMO had conducted investigations that confirmed the publications were the work of individuals with no official mandate from the state government.
“The actions of these characters are capable of undermining the fragile peace and security of our state,” he warned.
He called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to distance himself from such aides, stating that TMO has no intentions of antagonizing the governor but will not tolerate acts that jeopardize the organization’s objectives.
“Our legal department is poised to take swift legal action against any further malicious fabrications,” Duke said.
He urged Imo citizens to reject politics of manipulation and focus on issue-based discussions.
“Let us promote a culture where leaders are judged by their policies, track records, and commitment to the people’s welfare,” he appealed.
