Uzodinma Promises Refunds for Unsuccessful APC Aspirants in Imo LG Elections

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, has assured All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirants who contested in the primaries for the upcoming local government elections but were unsuccessful, that they will receive refunds for the money spent on purchasing forms.

TThis announcement comes as the state prepares for the local government polls scheduled for 21st September 2024.

The governor made this commitment during a public statement following his attendance at a Sunday Mass held at the Government House Chapel in Owerri.

In the statement, issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Electronic and Creative Media, Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, Uzodinma expressed his desire to maintain fairness within the party by ensuring that unsuccessful candidates are not left out financially.

Uzodinma clarified that the refund would only cover the official costs incurred by aspirants in purchasing nomination forms directly from the APC.

These forms are a prerequisite for participation in the party’s primaries for the positions of councillorship and chairmanship across Imo State’s local government areas (LGAs).

However, the governor drew a line by stating that any funds spent on consultations or other personal campaign-related expenses would not be reimbursed.

“All the people who applied as aspirants to run for either councillorship or chairmanship in the local government election and were not successful will have their money refunded tomorrow (Monday).

The funds we will not refund are those given without receipts (for consultations),” the governor explained.

By drawing this distinction, Uzodinma made it clear that the party is committed to compensating aspirants for their direct investments in the political process, while personal expenditures that go beyond the purchase of official forms will not be considered for refunds.

Beyond the financial aspect, the governor urged all aspirants, including those whose hopes of clinching the party’s ticket were dashed, to remain steadfast and loyal to the party.

Uzodinma called on them to keep their focus on the broader objectives of the APC and to continue to support the party’s efforts to develop Imo State.

“Your commitment to the APC should not waver because of this outcome. We must all work together for the greater good of the party and the state as a whole.

It is essential that we put the interests of Imo State above individual ambitions,” Uzodinma said.

Acknowledging that some party members and leaders might feel disheartened by the primary results, the governor implored them to exercise patience and maintain unity.

He reminded them that personal sacrifices are necessary for the collective success of the party, stressing that their cooperation is vital for the continued progress of the state.

Uzodinma’s message of party cohesion resonates as Imo State gears up for the local government elections, which mark a significant political event for both the APC and the state at large.

The governor urged all aggrieved aspirants and party leaders to embrace reconciliation for the benefit of the people of Imo.

In addition to addressing internal party matters, Governor Uzodinma reiterated that the date for the Imo State local government elections remains unchanged.

The Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) had earlier announced that the elections would take place on 21st September 2024.

The governor made it clear that the election timeline is sacrosanct and that there will be no postponements or delays in the process.

“The election will hold as scheduled by ISIEC. We are fully prepared for it, and there will be no going back on the date.

It is important that we move forward and allow the democratic process to take place at the grassroots level,” Uzodinma affirmed.

His statement underscored the government’s readiness to proceed with the elections, providing the people of Imo with the opportunity to elect their local government representatives.

He also reassured the public that the electoral process would be free, fair, and transparent, and that all necessary measures would be put in place to ensure the credibility of the polls.

Governor Hope Uzodinma’s assurances of refunding aspirants, alongside his call for party unity and steadfastness, come at a crucial time for the APC in Imo State.

As the local government elections approach, his leadership is being tested both within the party and in his administration’s ability to conduct a credible electoral process.

By addressing concerns over financial fairness and emphasising the importance of democratic participation, Uzodinma seeks to foster a spirit of inclusivity and collective responsibility within the APC.

As the election date draws nearer, it remains to be seen how the political landscape in Imo State will evolve.

However, Uzodinma’s commitment to a transparent and fair process could set the tone for future political engagements within the state, shaping the local government elections and their outcomes in the months ahead.