Imo guber: I’ve been vindicated as winner of 2019 polls, says Uzodimma

Hope Uzodimma, re-elected governor of Imo, says his victory at the gubernatorial election on Saturday has vindicated him as the real winner of the 2019 poll.

Uzodimma spoke on Sunday at the government house chapel according to a statement released by Oguwike Nwachuku, the governor’s chief press secretary.

Uzodinma became the governor of Imo in January 2020 after a supreme court verdict that nullified the election of Emeka Ihedioha, who was elected into the government house on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Uzodinma’s legal victory led to Imo becoming the eighth state in the country to conduct off-season elections.

Abayomi Fashina, returning officer of the Imo gubernatorial poll, declared Uzodinma the winner of the election on Sunday morning.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate polled 540,308 votes to beat Samuel Anyanwu of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored 71,503 votes; and Athan Achonu of the Labour Party (LP), who secured 64,081 votes.

Addressing the congregation, the governor said he had been denied his “well-deserved victory” in 2019, leading him to embark on a tortuous court process that ruled in his favour.

He expressed joy over his victory and thanked those who contributed to the process, adding that it would spur him to more action in the service of Imo.

“My heart is full of joy and grateful to all,” Uzodimma said.

“My good people of Imo State, I am humbled and honoured by your overwhelming support in yesterday’s (Saturday’s) election.

“Your trust in me to continue leading our dear State is both inspiring and deeply appreciated. Together, we have achieved a resounding victory and I am committed to delivering on the promises made during our campaign.”

Uzodimma commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) “for ensuring a fair and neutral electoral process” and urged his contenders to join him in building the state.

“In the spirit of inclusivity, we will operate a government that transcends political differences for the benefit of all,” he added.

Achonu, the LP candidate, has described the election as an “attack on democracy”.