The battle to liberate Imo State from the draconian regime of Owelle Rochas Okorocha, as well as save the state from being converted into a monarchy system, whereby whoever enters the seat of power sees it as an inheritance rather than being democratically elected, was fought on many fronts.
There was the major opposition in the state led by Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha’s PDP and there was the internal opposition in APC, a group where Prince Eze Madumere played a foremost role and took so much political bullets for the people of Imo State, that ensured the democracy we enjoy today.
Prince Eze Madumere’s travails started when he stood firm against former governor, Rochas Okorocha’s decision to install his son in-law Uche Nwosu as his successor.
For even daring to indicate interest in contesting for governorship of Imo State, Prince Eze Madumere was victimized. His people of Mbieri in Mbaitoli, also bore the brunt as they were abandoned infrastructurally, all in an attempt to give Madumere a bad name from the home front.
He was verbally abused. He was starved of money due to his office as Deputy Governor.
He was abused and even at a point, his life was threatened when his entire security details were withdrawn, after the Acho Ihim State Assembly, at the instance of Okorocha, attempted a kangaroo impeachment against him.
I remember visiting his residence at Achi Mbieri, the night after the later foiled impeachment attempt. The youths of Achi came out with their matchets and cutlasses, and stood guard around his compound. An off duty policeman from Achi Mbieri armed himself with a hunting gun and stood at the gate to protect his brother. The reason for the withdrawal of Prince Eze Madumere’s security details weren’t given, but clearly those who did that, didn’t mean well for his life and safety.
But Prince Eze Madumere, was determined to make sure democracy was preserved in Imo State.
When attempts to physically attack him failed, media attacks were sponsored against Prince Eze Madumere, but he maintained his resolve.
As he marks his 56th year on earth, it’s worthy to celebrate this great warrior in the fight for our liberation.
Birthday His Excellency Prince Eze Madumere.
