The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has charged Governor Hope Uzodimma with the alleged approval of N2.1 billion for the 315 Muslims from Imo, Abia, and Bayelsa states, who departed over the weekend during the commencement of the 2025 Hajj Pilgrimage at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri. The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, among others, gathered at the airport to initiate the airlifting of the pilgrims.
In a statement released yesterday by the party claimed that allocating such a substantial amount in the face of insecurity, including arson, kidnapping, and killings, reflects a lack of sensitivity and is wasteful. They suggested that these funds should have been redirected to improve the living conditions of residents across the 27 local councils of Imo State. The statement expressed: ‘The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has expressed significant concern regarding the decision of the Hope Uzodimma administration to expend N2.1 billion on a Muslim pilgrimage and to host an extravagant celebration on Friday, May 9, 2025, in honor of the airlifting of pilgrims, at a time when the state is facing escalating insecurity and increasing poverty.
While the Imo PDP supports religious inclusivity, there is no rationale for the government to waste N2.1 billion of taxpayers’ money on such an initiative for 315 individuals, nor to organize a lavish event featuring the Vice President solely for the airlifting of pilgrims for the Hajj.
The statement expressed concern regarding the airlifting occurring just one day after armed assailants attacked Okigwe, stating: ‘It is particularly alarming that this event took place immediately following the siege on the road connecting Umuna and Okigwe in Onuimo Local Council, where at least 20 individuals were killed, others were kidnapped, and over 22 vehicles, including trucks, were set on fire—a tragedy that the governor has not addressed. The party perceives this reckless and insensitive action as an implicit approval of the ongoing arson, kidnappings, and murders afflicting the state.
Consequently, we strongly demand the resignation of Governor Hope Uzodimma due to his severe incompetence.’ In response, Uzodimma expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and others for their support in facilitating the event, emphasizing that Imo is recognized for its religious tolerance and asserting that such events would pave the way for development. Additionally, Uzodimma cautioned local council chairmen and councillors who are unable to reside in their respective areas to contemplate resigning from their roles. The governor delivered this warning during a stakeholders meeting at the Imo Traditional Rulers Council Secretariat, Mbari, Owerri, marking the 10th meeting in his five-year tenure.
He clarified that the meeting was free from political influences, intended to engage with stakeholders within the state and the leaders of the 656 autonomous communities in Imo to make strategic decisions that prioritize the welfare of the citizens in matters such as security, education, accessible healthcare, and enhancing the quality of life for the populace. “There comes a moment when citizens unite to make courageous decisions for the benefit of the community,” Uzodimma remarked.
