By Baron Ike
The profile of the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Eze Madumere has continued to rise astronomically with the All Progressives Congress’ governorship primary election drawing closer.
Madumere has been garnering support from various quarters despite being persecuted by Governor Rochas Okorocha and his new lackeys of late.
The latest came from a former aide to Okorocha, Best Mbanaso who said on Wednesday that Orlu leaders were not with Okorocha on power remaining in the zone having held unto power in Imo state for several years.
He said the people of Orlu zone, especially leaders at the grassroots, have given reasons they are throwing their weight behind Madumere’s governorship ambition, saying that the deputy governor is a reliable leader whose integrity and sincerity of purpose stand him out.
Mbanaso who was one of the speakers in an umbrella group that cut across 27 local government area of Imo State, said that Orlu leaders are comfortable with Madumere because of his humility, decency and competence.
Speaking further, he revealed that Madumere is a man who believes that agreement is sacrosanct, and will not fail the people of the State in his social contract with them.
Okorocha’s former aide averred that the number two citizen of the State has a clean antecedent and is notably known for his forthrightness when it comes to public affairs.
Explaining the reason behind power rotational principle, he pointed out that it is an injustice in a society like Imo and Nigeria at large where only one part of the entire system should hold on to power forever, describing such as not only immoral but selfish and wicked.
He opposed the idea of foisting the governor’s son-in-law, Uche Nwosu, who is also from Orlu local government on Imo people having ruled the State for about 16 years.
He insisted it is the turn of Owerri zone in 2019.
The fiery politician also revealed that Okorocha had promised to return power to Owerri zone after only one term but is at the verge of serving out a second term.
He said that though he has come under attack for refusing to support Orlu governorship to the extent of an attempt on his life, he said he will not succumb to intimidation for the sake of posterity.
Frowning at Okorocha’s intention to impose his son-in-law on the people of the State, he urged him to keep to agreement with Owerri zone for justice, equity and posterity sake.
It will be recalled that the rift between the governor and his deputy started when Madumere refused to support Okorocha’s son-in-law’s governorship ambition.
The Deputy Governor insists on Owerri zone producing the governor or no deal in 2019.