Imo Rated Most Hostile State for Journalists — PDP Slams Governor Uzodinma

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has criticized Governor Hope Uzodinma, following a new report ranking Imo State as the most dangerous and hostile place for journalism in Nigeria.

The report, titled "State of Press Freedom in Nigeria", was published by the Centre for Journalism, Innovation and Development (CJID) and unveiled recently in Abuja. It assessed media openness across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Shockingly, Imo came last—37th on the index—with a poor score of just 40.7%, signaling growing concern over press suppression and limited access to information in the state.

In a statement signed by PDP spokesperson Lancelot Obiaku, the party expressed deep concern about what it called “a shameful low” that reflects poorly on the current administration.

“This report is a heavy blow to the image of Imo under Governor Uzodinma. It reveals a pattern of repression, intimidation, and obstruction of press freedom by state actors,” Obiaku said.

The PDP described the Uzodinma-led government as “cruel, high-handed, and unaccountable,” accusing it of stifling voices and preventing transparency in governance. According to the party, this hostile media environment has further contributed to the state's growing insecurity, poverty, and lack of development.

Obiaku stated that press freedom is vital to good governance, adding that any government that suppresses the media is clearly afraid of being held accountable.

The PDP urged the Uzodinma administration to reverse this trend by supporting journalistic work, creating a more media-friendly environment, and enacting laws that protect the rights of journalists in Imo.

“For the sake of democracy and progress, Governor Uzodinma must stop silencing the press and start building a state where truth can thrive,” Obiaku concluded.