In a significant development within the Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. TOE Ekechi, a prominent party chieftain and former Commissioner for Information, has publicly responded to the resignation of Cajetan Duke, the former Publicity Secretary of the Imo APC. This reaction, reported on March 11, 2025, follows Duke’s exit from the party, which has sparked discussions about internal dynamics and leadership within the Imo APC. Dr. Ekechi’s comments shed light on the implications of Duke’s departure and the broader context of party unity under Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership.
Background of Cajetan Duke’s Resignation
Cajetan Duke’s resignation from his role as the Imo APC Publicity Secretary and his subsequent exit from the party were formally announced in early March 2025. While the exact reasons for his departure remain a subject of speculation, sources suggest that internal disagreements and dissatisfaction with the party’s direction may have contributed to his decision. Duke’s resignation letter, addressed to the APC leadership, was widely circulated on social media platforms, including X, prompting varied reactions from party members and political observers.
Duke’s tenure as Publicity Secretary was marked by efforts to promote the party’s agenda and defend its policies in Imo State, particularly under Governor Uzodimma’s administration. His departure has raised questions about the cohesion of the APC in Imo State, especially as the party navigates its post-2023 election landscape and prepares for future political contests.
Dr. TOE Ekechi’s Response
Dr. TOE Ekechi, a respected figure within the Imo APC and a close ally of Governor Uzodimma, addressed Duke’s resignation in a statement published by The Pressman Newspaper on March 11, 2025. Ekechi expressed a measured perspective, acknowledging Duke’s contributions to the party while emphasizing the need for unity and resilience within the APC.
In his statement, Ekechi described Duke’s exit as a personal decision that should not be interpreted as a reflection of the party’s overall strength or direction. “Cajetan Duke served the Imo APC with dedication during his time as Publicity Secretary, and we appreciate his efforts,” Ekechi noted. “However, political parties are dynamic entities, and individuals may choose to pursue different paths for various reasons. This does not detract from the APC’s commitment to delivering good governance and maintaining its dominance in Imo State.”
Ekechi also highlighted Governor Uzodimma’s leadership as a unifying force within the party. He credited Uzodimma with fostering an inclusive environment that has strengthened the APC’s position in the South-East region, particularly in Imo State. “Under Governor Uzodimma, the APC has achieved remarkable milestones, including infrastructural development, security enhancements, and economic empowerment,” Ekechi said. “The party remains focused on these priorities, and we will not be distracted by individual exits.”
Context of APC Leadership in Imo State
The Imo APC has been a dominant political force in the state since Uzodimma’s emergence as governor in 2020, following a Supreme Court ruling that overturned the initial 2019 election results. Uzodimma’s leadership has been characterized by efforts to consolidate power, improve infrastructure, and address security challenges, such as those posed by unknown gunmen in the South-East. His administration has also worked to integrate the APC into the broader political fabric of the region, despite historical resistance to the party in the predominantly Igbo South-East.
However, the party has faced internal challenges, including factionalism and disagreements over resource allocation and political appointments. Duke’s resignation is not an isolated incident; it follows a pattern of defections and resignations within the Imo APC, including the notable departure of a group known as “Imo Women on the Move” to join former Governor Emeka Ihedioha’s camp in 2024. These developments have fueled speculation about underlying tensions within the party, particularly as it prepares for the 2027 election cycle.
Political Implications of Duke’s Exit
Cajetan Duke’s resignation has both immediate and long-term implications for the Imo APC. In the short term, it necessitates the appointment of a new Publicity Secretary to maintain the party’s communication strategy and public image. This transition provides an opportunity for the leadership to reinforce its messaging and address any perceptions of disunity.
In the longer term, Duke’s departure could signal deeper issues within the party that require attention. Political analysts suggest that the Imo APC must address grievances related to inclusivity, reward systems for loyal members, and the management of internal dissent to prevent further defections. The party’s ability to maintain its cohesion will be critical as it faces opposition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political entities in the state.
Dr. Ekechi’s response appears to be part of a broader effort to downplay the significance of Duke’s exit and reassure party members and supporters of the APC’s stability. By framing the resignation as an individual choice rather than a systemic failure, Ekechi aims to maintain confidence in Uzodimma’s leadership and the party’s future prospects.
Reactions from Party Members and Observers
The reaction to Duke’s resignation and Ekechi’s response has been mixed. Some APC members have expressed disappointment over Duke’s departure, citing his role in amplifying the party’s achievements and countering opposition narratives. Others, however, view the resignation as an opportunity for renewal, suggesting that new leadership in the publicity role could bring fresh perspectives and energy to the party.
Political observers have noted that Ekechi’s statement reflects a strategic approach to managing the narrative around Duke’s exit. By emphasizing Uzodimma’s achievements and the party’s resilience, Ekechi seeks to shift the focus away from internal challenges and toward the APC’s governance record. This approach aligns with the party’s broader strategy of projecting strength and unity ahead of future electoral contests.
Broader Political Landscape in Imo State
The Imo APC operates within a complex political landscape marked by regional dynamics and historical rivalries. The South-East region has traditionally been a stronghold of the PDP and, more recently, the Labour Party, particularly following Peter Obi’s strong performance in the 2023 presidential election. The APC’s success in Imo State under Uzodimma has been an exception to this trend, making the party’s internal stability a critical factor in maintaining its regional influence.
Duke’s resignation and Ekechi’s response must also be viewed in the context of ongoing efforts to strengthen the APC’s position in the South-East. Uzodimma has positioned himself as a key figure in this endeavor, hosting regional party meetings and advocating for greater integration of the South-East into the APC’s national framework. The party’s ability to manage internal dissent and retain key members will be essential to achieving these goals.
Conclusion
Dr. TOE Ekechi’s response to Cajetan Duke’s resignation from the Imo APC Publicity Secretary role reflects a strategic effort to maintain party unity and confidence in Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership. While acknowledging Duke’s contributions, Ekechi emphasized the APC’s resilience and its focus on delivering governance outcomes for Imo State residents. The resignation highlights ongoing challenges within the party, but Ekechi’s statement aims to reposition the narrative around the APC’s strengths and future prospects.
As the Imo APC navigates this transition, its ability to address internal dynamics and maintain a cohesive front will be critical to its success in the coming years. For the latest updates on this development and other political news in Imo State, stay informed through credible news sources like The Pressman Newspaper.
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