Abuja: Factional National Chairman of the Accord Party, Chris Imumolen, has publicly declared that his recent visit to Alex Otti, alongside his endorsement of the governor for a second term, was not motivated by financial inducement. Imumolen, who was the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, issued a statement on Thursday clarifying that the endorsement was solely based on Otti’s leadership performance in Abia.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Imumolen emphasized that his visit aimed to appreciate and commend Governor Otti for his transformational governance and people-oriented policies. The entrepreneur highlighted his admiration for the developments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare delivery under Otti’s administration. He stressed the importance of recognizing good governance irrespective of political party affiliations.
Imumolen advocated for opposition politics that not only criticizes but also acknowledges leaders who deliver meaningful results. He stated, ‘The reward for good work is more work. Opposition politics should not be centered only on criticising leaders from other parties, but should also include commending and encouraging leaders who are performing excellently for the people.’
In his endorsement of Otti for re-election, Imumolen directed members of the Accord Party in Abia to support the governor ahead of the 2027 general election. He also mentioned the possibility of his party making contributions to Otti’s future political campaigns, highlighting that such bipartisan support is rare in Nigeria.
Addressing statements from the Maxwell Mgbudem-led faction that rejected the endorsement, Imumolen dismissed the group as lacking legitimacy within the Accord Party’s leadership. He pointed out that the party’s leadership dispute is currently before the Federal High Court, challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission’s recognition of Mgbudem’s faction.
Imumolen maintained that court orders recognize his leadership and accused the electoral commission of not fully complying with judicial decisions regarding the party’s authentic leadership. He reiterated his commitment to supporting competent leaders based on performance and track records, regardless of party affiliation.
He urged the public to ignore comments from what he termed the ‘jobless faction,’ accusing them of consistently opposing developmental efforts under his leadership. Imumolen also refuted allegations of his expulsion from the party, describing such claims as baseless and unconstitutional, especially while leadership matters remain unresolved in court.
Imumolen condemned the alleged expulsion as political recklessness and reaffirmed his dedication to building a stronger, progressive, and nationally competitive Accord Party.