The Orluzurumee Youth Assembly has cautioned the Orlu Political Consultative Assembly (OPOCA) against actions capable of portraying Governor Hope Uzodimma in a negative light, while forcefully rejecting the group’s controversial claim of banning all aspirants from contesting the 2027 Imo West senatorial election.
In a statement issued on May 4, 2026, the youth body said it read OPOCA’s release with “deep disbelief, surprise and concern,” particularly the claim of a “blanket ban” on aspirants alongside the declaration of Uzodimma as the sole candidate for the seat.
The statement, signed by Prince Izunna Obiefule, president of the assembly, and Ikenna Orioha, its publicity secretary, made clear that the group “totally dissociates itself from the content, tone and intent” of the OPOCA publication.
The assembly said it was “shocked and embarrassed” by the release, not because it disputes Uzodimma’s “towering political influence,” but because such an “undemocratic narrative is capable of misrepresenting his personality and projecting him wrongly before the people of Imo State and Nigerians at large.”
It stressed that Uzodimma “is a symbol of democracy and popular leadership,” adding that it is “unacceptable and unbecoming for any group or individuals to associate his name with pronouncements that portray intolerance, intimidation, or political suppression.”
While acknowledging the governor’s growing goodwill, the group stated that “Governor Hope Uzodimma does not need threats or bans to earn public support,” noting that his “performance and credibility are more than enough to attract massive support” if he decides to contest.
The assembly warned that “attempting to scare or silence others with a so-called ‘ban’ may create a dangerous impression that the Governor is afraid of competition,” describing such insinuations as “not only false, but also insulting to the reputation of a leader who has governed Imo State with courage, confidence and capacity.”
In a direct rebuke, the group declared that “no individual or group has the authority to ban aspirants or restrict democratic participation,” insisting that democracy guarantees the right of citizens to “express interest, contest elections and seek public mandate freely.”
It singled out OPOCA leadership, including Chief Rex Anunobi, reminding them that “no socio-political organization has the constitutional authority to prevent individuals or political parties from fielding candidates.”
The youth body also dismissed OPOCA’s claim that a broad stakeholders’ meeting endorsed the decision, describing it as “grossly misleading” and challenging the group to “publish verifiable evidence including photographs, attendance lists and communiqués.”
According to the assembly, the attempt to present the position as a unanimous voice of Orlu Zone—claiming the backing of “traditional institutions, youth bodies, professionals and grassroots stakeholders”—is a misrepresentation that compelled it to speak “in the interest of truth, democracy and the dignity of Orlu Zone.”
Despite its criticism, the assembly reiterated that it is “not against Governor Hope Uzodimma,” but rather appreciates his “developmental strides, especially within Orlu Zone,” and recognises him as a leader whose “experience and political stature can positively benefit Imo West Senatorial District.”
It, however, maintained that “his name should not be used to promote undemocratic narratives or intimidation tactics,” urging OPOCA to “desist from further actions that may bring embarrassment to Orlu Zone” and instead embrace “constructive mobilization, issue-based advocacy and responsible political engagement.”
