Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reportedly sponsored a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for top officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state, including the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), three Heads of Department, and 27 Electoral Officers.
Sources told SaharaReporters that the pilgrimage delegation, led by REC Professor Sylvia Agu, is scheduled to depart on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The REC will be accompanied by senior officials including Esther Okorie (Head of Department, Operations), Barrister Onyinye Nwankwo (Acting Head of Department, Legal), and Agnes Elukpo (Acting Head of Department, ICT).
The 27 Electoral Officers selected for the pilgrimage represent local government areas across Imo State, including Aboh Mbaise, Ahiazu Mbaise, Obowo, Oru East, Ihitte Uboma, Onuimo, Isiala Mbano, Ideato South, Ngor Okpala, Owerri North, and others. Names of all officers were obtained exclusively by SaharaReporters.
The sponsorship by a sitting governor has raised concerns about INEC’s independence and neutrality. Sources said accepting gifts or sponsorships from elected officials could undermine public confidence in the electoral process, particularly in politically sensitive states like Imo, which has experienced intense electoral disputes in recent years.
Before departure, the delegation is scheduled to gather at the Government House Chapel for prayers and a formal send-off, then proceed to Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, for a 10 pm flight to Jerusalem.
