The Imo state government has debunked reports in sections of the media (not Gbetu) claiming the governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma is nursing Presidential ambition, come 2023.

The state govt described the statement as “handiwork of hell-bent opposition, trying to distract the good works of the governor”.

In the statement signed by the commissioner for information, Declan Emelumba, the Imo govt said aside from delivering democratic dividends to the good people of Imo state, Gov Hope Uzodinma is committed to serving out his tenure satisfactorily and has no intention of ruling Nigeria come 2023.

The statement read: “The attention of Imo state government has been drawn to rumours making the rounds that the Executive Governor of the state, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodinma has joined the presidential race.

“There is no truth whatsoever in those speculations which are the handiwork of a desperate and idiotic opposition hell-bent on distracting the governor from delivering on his mandate to Imo people.”

“The Governor has neither contemplated contesting for the presidency nor informed anyone of such intention.”

“Apart from being preoccupied with the delivering of democracy dividends to the people and making their lives meaningful, Uzodinma is committed to serving out his tenure satisfactory.”

“Imo people and all political associates of the governor nationwide should disregard the malicious rumours as a vain attempt to smear the name of Uzodinma.”