OWERRI, Nigeria — The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has sharply criticised Governor Hope Uzodimma for what it described as “gross incompetence” and “insensitive governance” following the reported expenditure of N2.1 billion on a Muslim pilgrimage programme and celebratory event, amid deepening insecurity and hardship across the state.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, May 11, 2025, by the PDP state publicity secretary, Mr Lancelot Obiaku, the party condemned the allocation of public funds to sponsor 315 Muslim pilgrims and host a lavish send-off event, which included receiving Vice President Kashim Shettima, even as the state reels from escalating violence, kidnappings, and poverty.
“The party views this wasteful and insensitive action as a tacit endorsement of the recurrent arson, kidnappings, and killings plaguing the state. We, therefore, emphatically call for the resignation of Governor Hope Uzodimma over his gross incompetence,” the statement read.
The PDP said the spending spree was particularly alarming given that the event took place just a day after armed assailants attacked the road between Umuna and Okigwe in Onuimo LGA, killing at least 20 people, kidnapping others, and setting more than 22 vehicles ablaze.
“Before the Friday jamboree, at least 26 travellers were abducted and one killed in Ngor Okpala by suspected Fulani terrorists,” the statement continued, adding that many communities across Okigwe, Orsu, Njaba, Onuimo, Oru West, and Orlu LGAs remain under siege.
While acknowledging the importance of religious inclusion, the PDP criticised the scale and timing of the pilgrimage event, saying it reflected poor judgment in the face of urgent state priorities.
“Imo State is predominantly Christian, and while the Governor has the right to support religious diversity, such gestures should be modest and without fanfare,” Obiaku said.
“The funds could have been used to repair roads, clear pension backlogs, or invest in youth empowerment.”
The party further accused the governor of being detached from the suffering of the people.
“He often acts as though he is not an Imolite,” the statement added.
“There is a consistent reluctance to offer leadership or express empathy over the harrowing challenges confronting our citizens.”
The PDP called on residents of Imo State to hold the Uzodimma administration accountable, warning that the state’s descent into lawlessness cannot be ignored.
“Imo cannot continue to endure an incompetent governor and a detached government that shows no concern for the plight of its citizens.”
Efforts to reach the Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for comment were unsuccessful.
Calls and messages to the state party chairman, Dr Macdonald Ebere, went unanswered as of press time.
