– Advocates Politics Without Bitterness
The All Peoples Party (APP) candidate for Orlu, Orsu, Oru East Federal constituency of Imo State in the 2027 election, Chief Stephen C.Y. Uwaezuoke, has condemned in its entirety, the recent vandalization of the APP campaign billboards in most parts of Imo State. He described the attacks as unwarranted, despicable and an affront on the tenets of democracy, political tolerance and fair competition.
Reacting to the most recent incident that occurred on Sunday July 19 2026, when APP billboard at the party’s secretariat located at Oriental Plaza, along Okigwe Road, behind Orji flyover was destroyed in addition to other acts of vandalism said to have occurred in Ideato and Oru West, where APP billboards were also allegedly destroyed by yet to be identified persons, Chief Uwaezuoke expressed dismay over what he described as an escalating pattern of political intolerance that should not be witnessed in a decent democratic society.
According to him, “Democracy thrives only when every political party is allowed to campaign freely, engage the electorate peacefully, and present its programs without fear, intimidation, or the destruction of campaign materials”.
He noted that destroying billboards does not weaken a political party’s mass acceptance or diminish the resolve of its members. “Rather, such negative actions erode democratic values, threaten peaceful coexistence, and create unnecessary tension among citizens. He stressed that politics should be a contest of ideas, vision, character, and competence — not an arena for hostility, intimidation, or vandalism.”
He condemned the acts in very strong terms and called on those responsible to desist immediately. He noted that no political ambition or personal interest justifies the destruction of public campaign materials or any action that could disrupt peace in the state. He urged all political actors to conduct themselves with maturity, respect, and a genuine commitment to democratic principles.
Speaking ahead of the 2027 elections, Uwaezuoke said, the people of Imo State deserve an electioneering process defined by peace, fairness, and mutual respect. He called on political parties, supporters, community leaders, youth groups, and all stakeholders to reject violence, intimidation, and political intolerance.
“Elections should be decided by the free choice of the electorate through the ballot box, not by acts designed to create fear or suppress legitimate political activity,” he said.
Reaffirming his confidence in the APP, he described it as the strongest opposition party in Imo State. According to him, the growing support for the party reflects the people’s desire for credible leadership, accountability, and purposeful governance. He added that the APP remains focused on providing practical solutions to the challenges facing the people and will not be distracted by attempts to undermine its democratic activities.
He also encouraged APP members, leaders, supporters, and volunteers across the state to remain steadfast, united, disciplined, and vigilant. While urging them to protect party property through lawful means and to promptly report any acts of vandalism or intimidation to the appropriate authorities. He cautioned against retaliation or any action that could escalate tensions. Instead, he advised party faithful to focus on grassroots mobilization, peaceful engagement with voters, and promoting the ideals and programs of the APP.
Chief Uwaezuoke further appealed to security agencies to remain proactive in protecting lives, property, and the lawful activities of all political parties throughout the election period. He stressed that ensuring a level playing field for every party is critical to strengthening public confidence in the democratic process and safeguarding the credibility of the 2027 elections.
In conclusion, he reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful, issue-based politics and expressed confidence that no act of intimidation or vandalism would deter the Action People’s Party from its mission to offer the people of Imo State a credible alternative.
“Democracy can only thrive where peace prevails, the rule of law is respected, and every political party is allowed to campaign freely without fear or intimidation,” he said.
He urged the people of Imo State to remain hopeful, peaceful, and committed to preserving the democratic values that unite them as preparations for the 2027 General Elections continue.
