Former Imo PDP Chairman Chidi Dike, Others Defect to APC, Pledge Support for Uzodimma
..Congratulate Onyedebelu on Emergence as APC State Chairman
By Anselem Anokwute
The former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State, Sir Chidi Dike, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), pledging his support for Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration and leadership in the state.
Dike, an indigene of Onuimo Local Government Area, said his decision to join the ruling party was motivated by Governor Uzodimma’s commitment to infrastructural development, inclusive governance, and efforts to unite people across political divides.
The former PDP chairman, who succeeded Chief Charles Ugwu during his tenure as the party’s state leader, expressed optimism about contributing to the development of Imo State through the APC.
According to him, his decision was also driven by the desire to be part of what he described as a progressive movement aimed at advancing the state.
“I am not a home-based politician. I draw inspiration from credible leadership and the reputation of governments beyond the state. I decided to join the APC to contribute my quota and not be left out when the history of rebuilding Imo State is written for future generations,” he said.
Dike noted that his admiration for Governor Uzodimma and members of his team influenced his decision to leave the PDP.
He commended the member representing Onuimo State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. James Uba Esile, and the Executive Chairman of Onuimo Local Government Area, Dr. Emeka Obi, for their contributions to the development of the area.
Dike also described the recently concluded APC State Congress as a demonstration of democratic principles within the party.
“What we are witnessing today is democracy in action. The election of a new crop of leaders will help move the party forward, especially under the leadership of Governor Uzodimma, who is known for his commitment to infrastructural and human capital development,” he added.
He congratulated Prince Augustine Onyedebelu and Hon. Onyekachi Ibezim on their emergence as the APC Chairman and Secretary in Imo State, expressing confidence that their leadership would strengthen the party and position it for greater success.
Dike further described Governor Uzodimma as a leader who promotes inclusivity and unity, noting that joining the APC would enable him to learn from the governor’s leadership style while contributing to the state’s progress.
In his remarks, Hon. James Uba Esile described the election of the new APC state leadership as a positive development, expressing confidence that the party in Imo State would deliver strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Esile also described the new state chairman, Prince Augustine Onyedebelu, as a grassroots politician and pioneer member of the APC known for his open-door policy and inclusive leadership style.
Similarly, the Chairman of Onuimo Local Government Area, Hon. Emeka Obi, said the outcome of the APC State Congress reflected the will of party members, congratulating the newly elected state party leadership and expressing hope for continued unity and progress within the party.