Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has made the decision to dissolve the expanded executive council members, with the assurance that the reconstituted EXCO will consist of individuals who have excelled in their service during his initial four-year term.

This dissolution will take effect from January 16, 2024. Additionally, the governor has approved the dissolution of the Sole Administrators of the 27 Local Government Areas in the State, effective immediately. This dissolution also applies to all members of the expanded EXCO, including Commissioners, Special Advisers, and Senior Special Assistants.

During a gathering of his political appointees, Governor Uzodimma expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support over the past four years, particularly acknowledging their efforts in securing a decisive victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Imo State governorship election on November 11, 2023. He thanked them for their support throughout his first four years in office, despite the challenges they faced, and for their hard work in ensuring the APC’s overwhelming victory in the governorship election.

The governor emphasized that their support, loyalty, and unity were instrumental in his success across all 27 local government areas of Imo State.

He acknowledged their invaluable contributions to the stability and efficiency of his administration, even in the face of challenges posed by Covid-19 and politically motivated insecurity. Governor Uzodimma assured them that while a new term has begun and fresh perspectives are needed, he will ensure that both those directly involved in the new administration and those indirectly involved will have reason to be proud of being part of his government.

He made a plea to all former members of the executive council to bear in mind that their services will still be needed, considering their involvement with the APC and the current government.

During the farewell session, Governor Uzodimma expressed his concern about certain political appointees who have tarnished the government’s reputation and the person who gave them the opportunity to serve the public.

He stressed the importance of political appointees maintaining integrity and avoiding corrupt practices, misappropriation of public assets/funds, and other unethical behaviors.

He warned that the new administration will not tolerate members whose beliefs do not align with his vision for a better Imo State.

Following the dissolution, former Commissioners are required to hand over the affairs of their Ministries, including vehicles and government property, to the respective Permanent Secretaries. Similarly, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, and other key appointees must hand over government property to the Office of The Chief of Staff to the Governor. Governor Uzodimma has also approved the immediate removal of SOLADS from office, effective January 16, 2024.

This dissolution is to facilitate the prompt conduct of Local Government elections by the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) and the subsequent appointment of elected Chairmen and Councilors in the 27 LGAs of the State.