The South-East chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed allegations of ₦800 billion fund diversion against Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, describing the claims as unfounded and politically motivated.
The party also reaffirmed its confidence in Uzodimma’s leadership, insisting that he remains focused on delivering good governance, sustainable development and improved welfare for residents of Imo State.
The position was contained in a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday by Dr Ijeomah Arodiogbu, APC National Vice-Chairman (South-East).
According to the statement, the allegations were orchestrated by political opponents, particularly following reports of Uzodimma’s intention to contest the Imo East senatorial seat in 2027.
It maintained that the governor is constitutionally entitled to seek elective office and should not be subjected to what it described as political blackmail over his ambition.
The APC South-East said it had monitored developments since Uzodimma expressed interest in responding to calls from his constituents to return to the Senate, stressing that such scrutiny was politically driven.
The party also faulted claims linking the governor to the alleged diversion of ₦800 billion said to have been contributed by the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
It argued that no official campaign structure for the President’s re-election has been activated, noting that political campaigns have not commenced and therefore could not involve financial transactions of that nature.
The statement further explained that the PGF is not a campaign body and does not serve as one, adding that any contributions meant for election campaigns would be handled by the designated Presidential Campaign Organisation.
On the figure cited, the APC South-East described it as unrealistic, arguing that it would imply an extraordinarily high financial contribution from each member of the forum.
It added that such claims were not only implausible but also inconsistent with the financial realities of state governance and political activity.
The party maintained that Uzodimma has built a record of transparency and accountability in public service and has never been credibly associated with financial misconduct.
It urged critics to refrain from what it called attempts to tarnish the reputation of APC leaders, noting that reputable media organisations had avoided amplifying the allegation due to lack of evidence.
The APC South-East further advised those behind the claims to focus on presenting constructive policy ideas and solutions to national challenges rather than engaging in political propaganda.
It concluded that Nigerians are discerning enough to separate credible governance issues from politically driven narratives.