
(Hope Uzodinma meeting with aspirants. Photo credit: Daily Post)
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has convened a meeting with All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirants from the state who are seeking the party's tickets for various elective positions ahead of primaries commencing May 15, 2026.
Addressing the aspirants and party stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Owerri, Governor Uzodinma urged all contestants to uphold loyalty, discipline, and a spirit of sacrifice throughout the primaries process.
He described politics as a game of courage rather than a game of chance, acknowledging that while some aspirants would emerge victorious, others would not, and cautioning against desperation in the pursuit of tickets.
The Governor advised aspirants to carefully consider the financial risks involved before committing to the contest, warning against situations where individuals spend money meant for essential family needs such as school fees on nomination forms.
He stressed the importance of remaining committed to the party regardless of the outcome of the primaries.
To ensure fairness and transparency, Uzodinma announced that the party would adopt the Option A4 voting system in cases where consensus could not be reached, eliminating grounds for allegations of bias or favoritism.
He also urged contestants to respect existing equity and rotation arrangements within their communities where applicable, and confirmed that both a Primaries Conduct Committee and an Appeal Committee had been established to handle any grievances arising from the process.
The Governor expressed concern over the large number of aspirants vying for various positions but assured that the exercise would be conducted in a manner that leaves all participants feeling fairly treated.
In his own remarks, Imo APC State Chairman Austin Onyedebelu reaffirmed the party's dedication to unity, reconciliation, and electoral victory ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He noted that the State Executive Committee had taken deliberate steps to strengthen and reposition the party, and assured that reconciliation mechanisms were already in place to manage any tensions that might emerge from the primaries.