APP Denounces Restrictions on Its Leader's Access at Sam Mbakwe Airport

Table of Contents

• Condemnation of Restrictions
• Political Issues and Intimidation
• Details of the Incident
• Party's Response
• Solidarity with Citizens
• Call for Good Governance
• Commitment to Democracy

The Action People’s Party (APP), Imo Chapter, has denounced the alleged restriction imposed on its leader, Mazi Chima Matthew Amadi, preventing him from using the private wing of Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, by agents of the Imo State government.

The opposition party accused the government of political pettiness and intimidation directed by Governor Hope Uzodinma against Amadi.

This unfortunate incident reportedly occurred on Tuesday, witnessed by Hon. Matthew Nwogu, the representative for Ngor Okpala/Aboh Mbaise federal constituency, who was on the same flight as Amadi.

APP perceives this incident not as a logistical oversight but as a targeted, state-coordinated action aimed at harassing and intimidating its leader, Amadi.

This information was included in a statement released on Tuesday by the state Publicity Secretary, Cajetan Duke, which was made available to DAILY POST.

Part of the statement reads, “We find this action both absurd and deeply disrespectful. Amadi has always been, and continues to be, a man of the people; the public wing of the airport aligns better with his character and his commitment to engaging directly with citizens.

“This trivial restriction, therefore, fails as merely an inconvenience and instead underscores the administration’s profound insecurity and its dependence on intimidation and brute force as political strategies.”

The statement indicated that this incident is not an isolated case, but rather part of a disturbing pattern of behavior, noting that it closely follows the government’s disgraceful attempt to disrupt a civic reception organized by the resourceful people of Ideato Nation in honor of their esteemed and accomplished representative, Rt. Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere.

“We stand in solidarity with all Imolites and advocates of democracy in denouncing this brute-force approach to dissent. Such actions epitomize a reckless resort to political misconduct and violence.

“Targeting perceived adversaries with state power is the instinct of an administration that has lost the argument with the people and now resorts to coercion.

“It is, without a doubt, the desperate grasping of a government on the verge of collapse. This ongoing culture of political thuggery and lawlessness has regrettably become the defining characteristic of the current state government.

“Rather than directing state resources and efforts into this futile endeavor of harassing opponents, we demand an immediate shift in focus toward the urgent needs of Imo State.

“The people long for and deserve effective governance, not vindictiveness.

“The energy wasted on orchestrating airport restrictions should be redirected towards ensuring security, rebuilding infrastructure, revitalizing healthcare, and creating opportunities for a decent and dignified life. The priorities of this administration are dangerously misplaced.

“Although we have noted a consistent pattern of harassment and overt suppression targeting prominent leaders of opposition parties in the state, our party remains steadfast and determined.

“We will not be intimidated by these childish displays of power. We urge all individuals of goodwill to recognize these acts for what they are: indicators of a failing government. Our commitment to the people of Imo State and to the principles of democratic engagement remains resolute.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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