The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Imo State has inaugurated its Caretaker Committee, but the event has been overshadowed by strong objections from Lolo Amaka Osunde, Acting Chairperson of Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Council, who rejected the inclusion of her name as the party’s interim State Woman Leader.
The SDP, in its newly released caretaker structure, had included Osunde’s name among the State Executive Committee. But Osunde, a staunch member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), rejected the claim outright, describing it as “false, embarrassing, and mischievous.”
In a statement, Osunde said she felt compelled to respond to protect her reputation.
“I would have ordinarily not bothered to reply to the said publication, but in a bid to set the records straight and for the sake of protecting my image before members of the public, it is pertinent I addressed the issue,” she stated.
The local council boss clarified that at no point had she considered joining the SDP.
“I am still and will continue to be a bonafide member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and will continue to align myself with the 3R mantra of His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma,” she affirmed.
Reiterating her loyalty to the APC, she added: “I have no intention of leaving the APC or joining any other political party in the State. I remain committed to the ideals and values of the APC and will continue to be its member.”
Expressing her displeasure at the SDP’s move, she warned that legal steps would follow if an apology was not tendered. “I was never consulted before the said list was published and that has caused me great pains and embarrassment. I, therefore, demand an apology from the leadership of the SDP else my lawyers will be instructed to institute a legal action against the SDP,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Imo chapter of the SDP has continued with its activities. Last Wednesday, the party held its inaugural meeting in Owerri, where Caretaker Committee Chairman, Engr. Augustine Okere, charged members to mobilize support and push the party as an alternative to the ruling APC.
“The Social Democratic Party, SDP, is desirous of bringing positive change to the entire Nigerians and our dear Imo State in particular. We don’t believe in unnecessary accumulation of personal wealth while the populace suffers,” Okere said in a release signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Sir Don Ubah.
He further urged the new exco to work tirelessly within the 90 days set by the national leadership to reposition the party, stressing: “SDP is the beautiful pride of Imo State politics now and all of us should be up and doing to mobilize and bring in more members from the grassroots.”
