The Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Governor Hope Uzodimma of allegedly approving N2.1 billion for the airlifting of 315 Muslim pilgrims from Imo, Abia, and Bayelsa states, despite the state grappling with severe insecurity.
The airlift, which took place over the weekend from the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, was flagged off by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, and other dignitaries.
In a statement issued by the PDP’s state Publicity Secretary, Lancelot Obiaku, and made available to The Guardian, the party criticized the expenditure as wasteful, arguing that the funds could have been better used to address pressing security and economic challenges across Imo’s 27 local councils.
The statement read: “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has noted with great concern the decision of the Hope Uzodimma-led administration to waste N2.1 billion on a Muslim pilgrimage and to host a lavish party on Friday May 9, 2025, in celebration of the airlifting of pilgrims, at a time when the state is grappling with worsening insecurity and deepening poverty.
“While the Imo PDP is not opposed to religious inclusion, there is no justification for the government to squander as much as N2.1 billion of taxpayers’ money on such a programme for 315 individuals, let alone organise an extravagant party, hosting the Vice President merely for the airlifting of the pilgrims going for Hajj operation.”
The party also condemned the timing of the event, noting that it took place just a day after assailants attacked the road between Umuna and Okigwe in Onuimo Local Council, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 people, the abduction of others, and the destruction of over 22 vehicles, including trucks.
“More worrying is that the event was held just a day after armed assailants laid siege to the road between Umuna and Okigwe in Onuimo Local Council, killing at least 20 people, kidnapping others, and setting over 22 vehicles, including trucks, ablaze, a tragedy the governor has not flinched at,” the statement continued.
The PDP called for Uzodimma’s resignation, accusing him of turning a blind eye to the escalating violence in the state.
In his defense, Uzodimma expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and other leaders for their support in organizing the event, noting that Imo is known for religious tolerance and that such events could foster development.
