Governor Hope Uzodimma has dissolved the Imo State expanded executive council members, with a promise that the soon to be reconstituted EXCO will still accommodate those of them who distinguished themselves in their service during his first term of four years.
Those affected in the dissolution include all members of the expanded EXCO, including Commissioners, Special Advisers and Senior Special Assistants.
Addressing a gathering of all his political appointees on Tuesday, Governor Uzodimma thanked members of the expanded executive council and other political office holders for their support throughout the first four years of his government, even in the face of challenges, but more importantly for working hard to ensure that his Party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), overwhelmingly won the governorship election in Imo State on November 11, 2023.
The Governor recalled that it was their support and spirit of family that made it possible for him to win in all the 27 local government areas of Imo State.
Governor Uzodimma, however, reminded them that though a new term has dawned and demands that fresh persons, ideas and enthusiasm be taken into consideration, he will ensure that both those who will be directly involved in the new administration or tangentially involved, will have cause to be proud of being part of his government.
“I want to remind you that whether you will be directly involved in the new dispensation or tangentially involved, wherever you are, you will be proud to have been part of his government,” he said.
He appealed to them to appreciate his limitations as human by not being able to meet up to their expectations, and promised that he will strive harder in the new dispensation to do better.
Regardless, he pleaded with all the members of the dissolved executive council to bear in mind that their services will continue to be required, having been part of the APC family and government of the day.
Governor Uzodimma however seized the opportunity to lament the activities of some political appointees that dent the image of the government and the person who offered them the opportunity to serve the public. He reminded them that political appointees are expected to live above board as regards corrupt practices, looting of public assets/funds, and other sharp practices.
He cautioned that the new dispensation will not tolerate members whose thought line will not be in sync with his vision for a better Imo State for all.
