The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has accused Governor Hope Uzodinma’s administration of undermining the rule of law, weakening democratic institutions, and eroding public confidence in governance as Nigeria marks its 27th Democracy Day celebration.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the party’s spokesperson, Lancelot Obiaku, the PDP said the principles of separation of powers and adherence to the rule of law, which are fundamental pillars of democracy, have been largely neglected under the current administration.
The opposition party alleged that the Uzodinma-led government has failed to demonstrate a commitment to democratic governance, citing what it described as arbitrary use of power, lack of accountability in public spending, disregard for constitutional provisions, as well as rising concerns over corruption and insecurity during the governor’s six-year tenure.
According to the PDP, these developments have dampened public confidence and diminished the significance of Democracy Day for many residents of the state.
“The administration is undermining the roles of the Legislature and the Judiciary, while stifling the local government system through continued subjugation and deprivation of resources. The Executive arm operates without adequate recourse to the other arms of government,” the statement read.
The party further argued that the governor’s style of governance runs contrary to democratic ideals and has hindered the state’s development.
It alleged that nearly N700 billion in local government allocations received since the inception of the administration has not translated into visible development in critical sectors such as rural infrastructure, education, commerce, pension payments, gratuities, and the implementation of the minimum wage.
The PDP also accused the state government of withholding substantial portions of local government allocations, claiming that councils receive less than 10 percent of their statutory funds.
The opposition party criticized the governor for allegedly failing to conduct democratic local government elections and instead appointing sole administrators, a move it said has deprived citizens of grassroots governance and the dividends of democracy.
On the judiciary, the PDP expressed concern over the state’s prolonged absence of a substantive Chief Judge, noting that Imo reportedly operated for nearly a year without one following the vacancy that arose on November 16, 2024.
The party alleged that rather than follow constitutional procedures by seeking a recommendation from the National Judicial Council (NJC), the governor appointed and swore in Hon. Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu as Acting Chief Judge, a move it claimed was later declared void by the NJC.
According to the PDP, the situation negatively affected judicial administration in the state, including the assignment of cases and other functions traditionally reserved for the Chief Judge.
The party also raised concerns about transparency in public procurement, alleging that government contracts are neither publicly advertised nor subjected to adequate legislative oversight.
It specifically referenced the re-award of the World Bank–Umuguma and Nekede–Iheanwa road projects in Owerri, claiming that the projects had previously been awarded in 2020 and 2023 without significant progress despite substantial financial commitments.
Describing the development as evidence of poor governance and lack of accountability, the PDP called on the state government to embrace transparency and democratic principles.
While congratulating Imo residents and Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, the party urged citizens to remain committed to democratic governance, expressing optimism that better days lie ahead.
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