Governor Hope Uzodimma has charged APC stakeholders in the state to work towards party discipline, unity and succession plan during the ward and local government congresses scheduled for Friday.

Mr Uzodimma gave the charge at a meeting of party stakeholders from the 305 wards and 27 LGAs, held at the Government House, Owerri.

He commended leaders, members, and the State Working Committee for strengthening the party, saying that the APC had recorded remarkable growth since 2020.

“If you recall where the party was in 2020 and where it is today, the progress is evident. Today, the three senators representing Imo are from the APC. The majority of House of Representatives and state’s House of Assembly members are APC members.

“All the local government chairmen and councillors are APC. This is a great achievement,” the governor said.

Mr Uzodimma restated the need for party unity and discipline, noting that not every stakeholder would secure party positions. He therefore urged those who would be affected by changes in leadership after the congresses to remain loyal and committed to the party.

“Our strength lies in unity, sacrifice, and loyalty. Some will emerge, some will not. But everyone must continue to support the party,” he said.

Mr Uzodimma, who said that the ward congresses formed the foundation of APC in the state, called for a transparent and peaceful exercise at all levels. He confirmed that party officials from Abuja had been deployed to supervise the process, saying that irregularities would not be tolerated.

“I will monitor the process very closely. Nobody is my friend or relative when it comes to ensuring a credible exercise. What matters is fairness and integrity,” he said.

Mr Uzodimma also expressed his readiness to supervise the process strictly, in line with the party guidelines.

He said, “My job is to supervise the process, and I will do everything as I said, in line with the approved guidelines for the congress.”

Mr Uzodimma urged members to return to their local governments, remain focused, and ensure the party emerged stronger than ever.

“Imo must move forward. Let us conduct our meetings peacefully and ensure that our party remains united and victorious,” he said.

(NAN)