The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has dissolved the state expanded executive council, in addition to approving the dissolution of the Sole Administrators (SOLAD) of the 27 Local Government Areas in the state.
A release issued by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor Oguwike Nwachukwu to that effect, stated that those included in the dissolution, are all members, including Commissioners, Special Advisers and Senior Special Advisers.
Governor Uzodinma who disclosed this while speaking at a valedictory session on Tuesday, thanked members of the dissolved exco for their support and loyalty all through his 4-year tenure, despite several challenges they faced.
He also expressed gratitude for the way they worked hard to ensure that the APC, won the November, 11, 2023, governorship election with a wide margin.
The Governor recalled that it was their support, loyalty and understanding that made it possible for his administration to win in the 27 Local Government Areas of the state.
The release dated January, 16, 2023, reads, “He noted that collectively and individually, they made invaluable contributions to the stability and efficiency of his administration despite the challenges posed by Covid- 19 and the politically motivated insecurity.
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 of the valedictory session 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.
Sequel to the dissolution, all former Commissioners are to hand over the affairs of the Ministries, including vehicles and government property in their care, to the various Permanent Secretaries in the Ministries.
In the same vein, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants and other strategic appointees are to hand over government property in their possession to the Office of The Chief of Staff to the Governor.
On the SOLADS, Governor Uzodimma has also approved their immediate removal from office with effect from January 16, 2024.
The dissolution of the SOLADS, the Governor said, is to pave way for the immediate conduct of Local Government elections by the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) to usher in elected Chairmen and Councilors into the 27 LGAs of the State.
Consequently, the former SOLADS have been directed to immediately hand over the affairs of the Councils to the various Directors of Administration and General Services (DAGS) in their areas.
Governor Uzodimma also expressed his gratitude to the former Sole Administrators for their services to Imo State and wished them well in their future endeavours”.
