The South-East chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly denied allegations accusing Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, of diverting ₦800 billion in campaign funds, describing the claims as false, misleading and politically driven.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the APC National Vice Chairman for the South-East, Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu, the party reaffirmed its support for the governor, insisting that he remains focused on governance, development and improving the welfare of citizens in Imo State.
According to the statement, the allegations were being circulated to discredit Uzodimma, particularly following reports suggesting his interest in contesting the Imo East Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. The party argued that such claims were intended to distract him from his political and administrative responsibilities.
It maintained that Governor Uzodimma has continued to demonstrate commitment to good governance and would not be derailed by what it called unfounded accusations.
The APC further noted that while individuals are free to express opinions, such freedoms should not be misused as tools for political harassment or character assassination against public office holders exercising their constitutional rights.
The controversy stems from allegations that Uzodimma allegedly diverted ₦800 billion contributed by members of the Progressive Governors Forum for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign. The APC South-East, however, dismissed the claim as entirely inaccurate and lacking in logical foundation.
The party argued that no official campaign structure or fund has been established at this stage, pointing out that electoral campaigns are still restricted by law until the official campaign period begins in September. As such, it said it was impossible for any legitimate campaign fund to be in operation or subject to mismanagement.
It also clarified that the Progressive Governors Forum is not a campaign organisation and therefore does not manage or disburse election-related funds. According to the APC, attributing such a large financial pool to the forum is misleading and inconsistent with its mandate.
The party also questioned the credibility of the ₦800 billion figure, describing it as unrealistic. It noted that if the claim were accurate, it would imply that each of the 31 APC governors contributed an average of about ₦26 billion, a sum it considered highly improbable given the financial responsibilities and political commitments of state governments.
The statement further stressed that Governor Uzodimma has maintained a record of transparency and accountability in public service and has not been associated with any proven financial misconduct.
The APC urged political actors and critics to focus on constructive engagement and policy-based opposition rather than spreading what it described as fabricated allegations intended to mislead the public.
It concluded by stating that Nigerians are capable of distinguishing between genuine governance issues and politically motivated narratives aimed at tarnishing reputations.
