By Sophia Afolabi

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a scathing rebuke of Chief Perry Opara, Chief Political Adviser and Head of the Political Bureau to the Governor of Imo State, labeling his leadership as “ineffective, sycophantic, and mediocre.” The party has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma to immediately relieve him of his duties.

The condemnation follows Opara’s public endorsement of Governor Uzodimma’s recent directive requiring all 27 Local Government Council Chairmen and 305 councillors in Imo State to relocate to their home communities or face dismissal.

While the ADC acknowledged the potential benefits of grassroots governance, it strongly criticised the state government for ignoring the significant security threats in many rural communities. The party argued that local officials, many of whom were elected in the disputed July 2024 council elections, face hostility and rejection from their constituents.

In a statement, the ADC said: “True leadership must be rooted in example and proximity to the people. If the governor and his advisers truly believe in this policy, they should begin by relocating to their own communities.”

The party specifically questioned Chief Opara’s own compliance, alleging that he does not reside or operate from his village despite occupying a critical advisory role. It also denounced the broader culture of political appointees maintaining a façade of normalcy in the state’s rural areas while remaining detached from the realities on the ground.

To improve rural governance and security, the ADC recommended three key measures: construction of residential quarters at council headquarters for local officials, state-supported vigilante groups managed by traditional leaders, and a halt to political interference in town union affairs.

The party stressed that genuine leadership must be visible, accountable, and rooted in the communities it serves.