The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has condemned the invitation of its chieftains ahead of the governorship and assembly elections.

The police invited former Governor Emeka Ihedioha, his ex-deputy Gerald Irona, and House of Representatives member-elect, Ikenga Ugochinyere over alleged murder.

A statement on Thursday by PDP Publicity Secretary, Collins Opurozor accused the police of abetting Governor Hope Uzodinma, demanding CP Mohammed Barde’s removal.

The spokesperson said the All Progressives Congress (APC) government had resorted to using security agencies instead of testing its popularity at the polls.

Opurozor alleged that Uzodinma wanted prominent opposition leaders out of circulation before Saturday in a bid to deny them participation in the poll.

The plot is to “rig and reestablish a weak and malleable APC-dominated House of Assembly in Imo which can only sing his praises”, he noted.

The PDP recalled Irona’s residence was invaded last week by security operatives “on the orders of Uzodinma” and has since been “in detention for doing no wrong”.

Opurozor said the police “have allowed itself to be abused” by the governor and urged the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba to rejig the Imo command.

The statement called for a level playing ground for all and adequate security for the electorate as they exercise their right.