Senator Rochas Okorocha was very much loved by the people of Imo State during his first tenure in office as the executive governor of Imo State. He was given sweet names such as "man of the people" and "Roro Daddy" - a name preferred by most students of Imo State University (IMSU) as at that time.
Rochas Okorocha
Photo Credit: Premium Times Nigeria
However, during his second tenure in office, things were not so good. The man of the people was not celebrated as much as during his first tenure in office. Some people are of the opinion he lost being the favorite when he moved from All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) to Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).
The rift between Senator Okorocha and the current governor of Imo State, Gov. Hope Uzodimma appears to be getting more serious as the days roll by. This political enmity can be traced down to the political tussle in All Progressive Congress (APC) prior to Imo State Gubernatorial Election in 2019.
Gov. Hope Uzodimma
Photo Credit: Daily Post Nigeria
Okorocha had planned to have his son-in-law, Uche Nwosu succeed him in office. But this was opposed heavily by the then APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole who instead favored Sen. Hope Uzodimma. This was the genesis of the political brouhaha between Okorocha and Uzodimma.
Gov. Uzodimma may not be the most loved governor of Imo State, but the man has maintained one principle: fight against corruption. Uzodimma's administration has repeatedly accused Okorocha for milking the State's resources and converting some State's property to his personal use.
Okorocha arrested by the Police through the order of Imo State Government
Photo Credit: Sahara Reporters
Few months ago, the arrest of Sen. Okorocha by men of Nigeria Police Force on the order of Uzodimma went viral in the media. The Premium Times reported that Okorocha was trying to break into Royal Spring Palm Hotel, Owerri which was sealed by the State government.
Recently, the Gov. Uzodimma expressed that he would not relent from ensuring that all stolen property belonging to Imo State are recovered. According to Vanguard, the governor claimed that his administration has already recovered stolen lands, buildings and assets fraudulently privatized by the past administration.
Mixed images of Okorocha (L) and Uzodimma (R)
The political rift between the two politicians might be causing minor crisis in Imo state but there are good sides to it.
1. Denouncement of God-fatherism: The rift between Uzodimma and Okorocha will teach the people of Southeast to say no to god-fatherism. Belonging to the same political party does not warrant sheepish connivance.
2. Promotion of Integrity: Uzodimma is determined to fight corruption. He has maintained that he would not rest until the rightful property of Imo State are returned to the state. This integrity is what the people of Southeast must learn.
3. Better Governance: Another good side of the rift is the promotion of good governance. Governors must now be mindful of their leadership bearing in mind that their successors might not cover them up. Anyone who loots must be probed.
Content created and supplied by: KelsonJohn (via Opera News )
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