Political Analyst Knocks Gov. Uzodinma Over Progressive Governors Forum Crisis
ABEOKUTA – Following allegations surrounding the management of collective funds entrusted to the forum’s leadership, with critics calling for greater transparency and accountability from its chairman, Governor Hope Uzodinma, a political analyst, Tunji Akinlade has berated the Imo state governor for lacking in trust and accountability.
In a statement released on Monday, Akinlade, accused the Imo State governor of failing to provide satisfactory explanations regarding resources allegedly contributed by members of the forum for a collective political objective.
Akinlade argued that the issue at stake was not internal rivalry or political persecution, but rather a fundamental question of leadership responsibility and trust.
“The issue before Nigerians and members of the Progressive Governors Forum is simple.
“When funds are contributed by colleagues for a clearly defined collective political purpose, how do such monies suddenly become unavailable, inaccessible, or impossible to properly account for?”
The statement criticized what it described as attempts to deflect legitimate concerns through media campaigns and emotional appeals, insisting that accountability remains central to credible leadership.
According to Akinlade, leadership within the forum should be built on transparency, humility, and integrity rather than “sensational propaganda” or “coordinated character assassination” aimed at silencing critics.
Akinlade maintained that the controversy surrounding the Progressive Governors Forum comes at a politically sensitive time as Nigeria gradually approaches another major electoral cycle.
He stressed the need for unity, internal cohesion, and strategic coordination among APC stakeholders ahead of upcoming elections.
Akinlade warned that unresolved concerns over trust and accountability could weaken confidence within the forum and damage its institutional credibility.
“No serious organization survives when accountability is treated as an insult,” he stated, adding that “trust is the foundation upon which every enduring political alliance is built.”
The statement further maintained that members of the forum asking questions about collective contributions should not be viewed as adversaries, emphasizing that transparency is a normal expectation in responsible organizations.
Akinlade suggested that if the controversy had become too divisive, Governor Uzodinma should consider stepping aside from his leadership role in the interest of preserving unity within the forum.
“If indeed the burden of these unanswered questions has become too heavy and divisive, then the honorable thing to do is simple: step aside and allow the forum to rebuild cohesion,” the statement noted.
He the PGF chairman to embrace statesmanship and openness, stressing that leadership without trust ultimately undermines the credibility of any institution.
