IBC Dead Under Uzodimma? Emelumba, Onyegbule Allegedly Accused of Mismanagement, Asset Disposal

The once-vibrant Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC)—comprising Orient TV and Radio FM—has reportedly descended into a state of operational stagnation and physical deterioration, raising serious concerns about media management under the current administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma.

According to findings by field reporters, stakeholders have expressed alarm over allegations suggesting mismanagement and possible irregularities involving the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Chief Declan Emelumba, and the Director General of IBC, Ms. Ify Onyegbule.

Sources within the organization allege that several critical broadcast assets—originally procured or donated during the administration of former Governor Ikedi Ohakim—have gone missing without clear documentation or public explanation.

These assets allegedly include an Outside Broadcast (OB) Van, a Hilux vehicle, a Hummer bus, a Toyota Sienna, a Toyota Camry, and two transmission units.

Insider accounts suggest these were removed under administrative instructions; however, there is no official confirmation or denial from the concerned parties, as efforts to obtain their comments were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

Beyond equipment loss, the IBC headquarters—home also to the Nigerian Statesman newspaper—has reportedly suffered environmental neglect, infrastructural decay, and security vulnerabilities.

Staff now operate in conditions deemed unsafe and unsuitable for productive media work, worsened by inadequate power supply and frequent instances of vandalism.

While Orient TV remains technically active on Startimes Channel 35, insiders confirm that its broadcasts are sporadic, inconsistent, and often interrupted.

Adding to the concerns is the perceived marginalization of IBC in favor of private media outlets.

Credible industry observers allege that the state government spends between ₦8 million and ₦10 million for live event coverage through private channels reportedly owned by political associates, while IBC remains underfunded and underutilized.

Public interest advocates and media professionals are now calling for a full-scale probe into the affairs of IBC.

Their appeal is not necessarily an accusation but a call for transparency, reform, and revitalization of a once-prestigious media institution.

They urge Governor Uzodimma to prioritize IBC’s revival to restore public trust and professional integrity in the state’s broadcast sector.