DID YOU KNOW?

After close to two years of putting on hold construction work of the multi-billion naira Assa North/Ohaji South Gas Development Project in Ohaji/Egbema Council of Imo State, the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) has mobilised workers and returned to site following the intervention of Imo State Government.

The SPDC had, in 2019, performed the ground-breaking of the project with a potential capacity of 300 million standard cubic feet of gas per day, one of the largest domestic gas projects in Nigeria. Initial completion projection was put at 2023, but was put on hold in 2021, following security breaches which have now been taken care of by Government of Imo.

Government of Imo is now working in synergy with SPDC to protect both human and material resources to give Shell and its workers the confidence to be fully operational.

IWUANYANWU WORTH CELEBRATING - UZODIMMA

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has described Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who celebrated his 80th birthday on Sunday, as deserving of every honour from family, friends and well wishers alike.

The Governor stated this during his speech after the Thanksgiving Service at the Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord (CATOL) Owerri. His Excellency recalled Chief Iwuanyanwu's effort in making the Imo State Airport a reality when it was like an aberration for States to own airports in the country.

The Governor took time to extol Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu over his numerous selfless service to the people of Igbo land and Nigeria as a whole. His Excellency further linked the celebration of Iwuanyanwu to his goodwill across the nation.

Governor Hope Uzodimma who graced the occasion with his wife, Chief Barr. (Mrs) Chioma Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prof. Placid Njoku and other Government officials, expressed appreciation to the numerous dignitaries who came to celebrate the iconic nationalist.

"Let me, therefore, appreciate in a very special way those who were in Owerri yesterday to celebrate this iconic figure. I thank our caring President, Muhammadu Buhari for his sincere goodwill message. I equally appreciate former President Goodluck Jonathan for being physically present at the lecture. The guest lecturer, Dr. Nnia Nwodo was at his cerebral best. I didn't expect anything less. Our own brother, General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd) was also there in flesh and blood. For those who also sent representations, you also deserve my regards. All of us working together gave Ahaejigamba a deserving birthday present," the Governor said.

WE NEED TO STRENGTHEN OUR NEGOTIATION SKILL TO PLAY AT THE CENTER - UZODIMMA TELLS NDI IGBO

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma charged Ndi Igbo to strengthen their negotiation skill to play at the center.

At the Public Lecture tagged: Igbos quest for Nigeria’s unity, in Honor of Chief (Dr.) E. C. Iwuanyanwu at Sam Mbakwe Hall, Imo Concord Hotel, Owerri, Governor Uzodimma disclosed that the Igbos must leverage on our compassionate advantage to strengthen our negotiation skill.

According to the Governor, “the greatest of all is that we are weak in negotiations. We are often not as diplomatic as we ought to be. Perhaps our greatest bane is the “Nzogbu Nzogbu, Enyimba” spirit in all of us. This spirit probably deludes us into believing that we can do it all alone or into hoping that someday “manna” will fall from heaven and give us the day”.

The Governor added that even though the unfortunate event of the 60s has not helped matters, Igbos are still held hostage. He added that Ndi Igbo have risen from the ashes, spreading across the Nation still seeking better accommodation and not domination.

In his encomium on Chief Iwuanyanwu, he stated that the elder Statesman has always defended the legitimate quest by Ndigbo to have a fair deal in Nigeria.

Present at the event were: His Excellency, Goodluck Jonathan, the Fmr President-General, Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo, distinguished statesmen, traditional rulers, and a host of Government officials.

DID YOU KNOW?

All verified Imo State University lecturers have received their salaries till date despite ASUU strike

It is no longer news that University lecturers, in Nigeria, under the aegis of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) as well as other Unions in the Universities have downed tools for over 6 months to press home their demand for Federal Government to implement the renegotiated 2009 agreement.

What is news is that in spite of the fact that the Staff of Imo State University Owerri joined their counterparts in other Universities to down tools, Imo State Government ably led by His Excellency, Sen. Hope Uzodimma has continued to pay salaries of these University staff.

This piece has become necessary because the agitation for which the strike is on has direct bearing on Federal Universities, and this has been stated clearly by the Minister of Education who insists he can't sign off for State Governors who are visitors to their various State owned Universities.

To this end, it is imperative that patriotic Imo people should encourage Imo State University to resume academic activities, especially, as it is well known that Imo State Government pays them, promptly, even while on strike but their counterparts in the Federal Universities are facing a different fate.

Imo must Recover.

…� HER �…
I have been her
I have been she
I have been them
And now I’m me.

I have been out
And I’ve been in
I’ve felt defeat
I’ve known the win.

I have held joy
and shouldered grief
I’ve had my share
Of changed beliefs.

I have been hurt
and I’ve been high
I heard the answers
to what and to why.

I know the loss
and I know the gain
I know that we
all bleed the same.

I have been her
I have been she
I have been them
And now I’m me.

Happy Birthday Nneamaka Okafor welcome to the 4th floor.

Oguji John

IMO COALITION FOR JUSTICE AND PEACE HOLDS MEGA RALLY IN OWERRI


Imo Coalition For Justice and Peace has embarked on a peaceful demonstration rally in Owerri, the state capital to reaffirm their support towards the shared prosperity government of Gov. Hope Uzodimma.

The group which marched around the state capital with some associations represented have their banners with different inscriptions as they called on Uche Onyeagocha and his likes to forthwith desist from politicising the state of insecurity in some parts of the state and his incessant attacks on the person of Gov. Hope Uzodimma.

The Coalition used the rally as an opportunity to appreciate the state Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma for bringing good governance to the state through his numerous people oriented projects and pledged their support in solidarity to him and his government.

Earlier while addressing the mammoth crowd at the Freedom Square, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Hon. Nze Chinasa Nwaneri joined in the call to warn the enemies of the state including desperate politicians like Uche Onyeagocha to play his politics without dragging the Governor into it just to score cheap popularity.

He stated that since the bitter oppositions in the state knows that Imo people has rejected them even before going to the polls, like drowning men they are desperately trying to hold unto something for his survival and thinks by engaging in campaign of calumny, Imolites will vote for them

Hon. Nwaneri appreciated the group for coming out boldly to speak against the evil been perpetrated by some wicked politicians in the state and standing strong behind the Governor whom he said is working tirelessly amidst opposition to change the socio-economic landscape of the state.

GOV. UZODIMMA PLEDGES MORE SUPPORT FOR PRIVATE-PUBLIC PARTNERSHIPS IN YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has promised to give more support to private-public partnerships for the empowerment of more Imo State youths.

Governor Uzodimma made the promise at the Coca-Cola Hellenic Group Youth Empowerment Workshop in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

The Governor commended the Management and Staff of the Coca-Cola Hellenic Group for identifying the need to partner with Imo State Government in complementing the Shared Prosperity programs for training our youths in various entrepreneurial skills.

“Private sector partnership with Governments is the only viable means to achieving job creation for all,” the Governor added.

Speaking earlier, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Director at Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, Mr. Ekuma Eze, commended the Governor for his support and most importantly, the enabling environment and ease of doing business in the State.

He disclosed that the company has started an expansion project in the plant located in the State having invested millions, to employ more Imo indigenes as a result of the enabling environment created by Governor Hope Uzodimma.

I WILL DEVELOP MBAISE NATION - GOVERNOR UZODIMMA

The Enyi oma 1 of Mbaise Nation, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has promised to develop the Mbaise Nation.

Governor Uzodimma stated this at the Iri Ji Mbaise Festival, where he was decorated by ezuruezu Mbaise Traditional Rulers with a Chieftaincy title of Enyi oma Mbaise in recognition of his friendly ties with the Mbaise Nation.

The Festival, which is an annual event that brings the good people of Mbaise, their friends and well-wishers together, offers great opportunities to recognize a prestigious fellow who must have impacted positively on the Mbaise nation.

Speaking after the decoration, The Governor assured Ndi Mbaise of good tidings that his good friend will bring towards the development of Mbaise. The Governor stated that he will develop Mbaise beyond its current status

The Governor further called on the continued support of the Mbaise Nation to his administration for the State Government to actualize all it has mapped out to achieve for the interest of the State.

GOV. UZODIMMA REASSURES NDI IMO OF PEACE AND SECURITY AS IGP RECEIVES ARMORED PERSONNEL CARRIERS FROM IMO STATE GOVT

To enhance the efforts of the Imo State Government in maintaining peace and security, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, PSC received Armoured Personnel Carriers donated by the Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Uzodimma to the Imo State Police Force.

Governor Uzodimma commended the Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari and heads of security agencies in the country, including the Police for their effort and sacrifices towards the restoration of peace in Imo State.

“We shall never forget the supreme sacrifice they made to keep Imo State safe. May their gallant souls rest in peace," the Governor said.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, PSC on his part commended the Governor for his efforts at leading the charge to maintain peace and security in the State. According to the IGP, Imo State required a leader with the political will as demonstrated by Governor Uzodimma, who according to him, has given practical, meaning and exceptional courage to secure his people. He added that the donations by the Imo State Government will change the policing narrative in the State and the entire Southeast region of Nigeria.

The ceremony was witnessed by top Government officials, traditional rulers, the clergy and officers of the Nigerian Police.

ORLU ZONE SENATE: THIS IS NOT THE TIME FOR EXPERIMENT.

~Dr Ezeafurukwe Paul Ihunanya


Sen. Osita Izunaso’s intention to represent the good people of Orlu Zone at the Senate in 2023 has been described as timely and a representation that will herald good tidings to the people of Orlu zone. This is as a result of Izunaso strongwill to position the zone into socio-economic height as opposed to the type of representation being witnessed in the zone currently.


The pedigree and antecedents of Izunaso most especially as it concerns politics has been proven overtime. His desire to become the Senator that will represent Orlu zone is borne out of passion, selfless service and burden that must be lifted only and when the people begins to enjoy the dividends of good representation. He has never been unwavering in his aspiration, he understands that the people must always come first before power as he sees power as another alternative towards achieving great things for his people. Hence, his philanthropic gestures under the Kpakpando Foundation which has been in existence since 2003 when he was in the House of Representatives and has been kept alive even when he was no longer in public office.

Kpakpando Foundation has brought hope and succor to so many people especially from Orlu zone from human capital development to empowerment down to people oriented projects. These achievements are verifiable and has earned him a place in the heart of the people even those outside the zone. His sojourn into the Senate from 2007-2011 recorded tremendous achievements for the zone and the entire nation and even till date the people are still yearning for his Senatorial representation which reflected in the primary election that saw to his emergence.

Distinguished Senator was one of the pillars of the coalition forces that wrestled power from ex Governor Okorocha. For this sacrifice Imo West and indeed the entire people of the state owe Izunaso a debt of gratitude.

In terms of real experience both in party administration, legislative sagacity and executive workings, Izunaso stands taller than his rivals. In terms of concrete achievements, touching lives and general acceptability, Izunaso clearly carries the day and there is no argument that Orlu Zone has seen the right man and needs not experiment.


A look at the socio-political landscape in Orlu zone today, the people should be aware that 2023 is not the time to gamble or experiment with candidates but look towards the way of Sen. Osita Izunaso as well as the APC and consider him on the basis of achievements, ranking, contact at the federal level and the overt possibility of getting a principal position for Orlu zone.


One of the strongest points going in favour of Izunaso is that this Senatorial project is the product of a people’s goodwill to a matured and dedicated servant. It is a people’s project. Just like what happened in 2007, the people are the propellers of the project. Both the leaders of communities in Orlu Zone and other stakeholders gathered and beckoned on Izunaso to go to the Senate and represent them once more. His support base cuts across party lines and by God’s grace and the people, he will emerge as the next Orlu Zone Senator.

There is so much expectations and so much responsibility. That explains why only an experienced and matured politician like Izunaso can do the job. It is not a job for bow tie wearing rookies or those who dance to the rhythm of folk songs during campaigns.

Government of Imo State

Press Release

Uzodimma swears-in new Commissioners, SOLADs, Assembly Service Commission members, Wednesday

Governor Hope Uzodimma will on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, inaugurate the 27 persons recently appointed as Sole Administrators (SOLADs) for the Local Government Areas in Imo State.

Also same day, three new Commissioner designates as well as members of the Imo State House of Assembly Service Commission, will be sworn-in by the Governor.

The Commissioner designates are: Prof Eugene Ukachukwu Opara, Chief Cosmas Maduba and Chief Jerry Egemba.

Members of the House of Assembly Service Commission include Hon. (Dr.) Lambert Orisakwe who serves as Chairman.

Others members are: Hon Emmanuel Orie, Hon Israel Nnataraonye and Hon. (Barr) Mike Nduleche.

The swearing-in ceremony for the three category of appointees takes place at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Chambers, Government House Owerri at 10am.

Members of the public are advised to be seated before 9am ahead of the arrival of the Governor.

Oguwike Nwachuku
Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor
August 15, 2022.

UCHE ONYEAGOCHA: Swimming In The Ocean Of Killings In Imo State.

Innocent Iwuala
Orogwe
Owerri West LGA.
Imo State.

Let me start by disclosing that I can count on Barrister Uche Onyeagocha as my kinsman haven come from the same local government as me.

But that is where our relationship and compatibility ends.

I have watched from the sidelines his activities of late, and I am clearly appalled and disenchanted with his constant eulogies and energization of the insecurity in Imo State.

Uche Onyeagocha is giving unpatriotic, improper and unpardonable energy to the killings in Imo State and I wonder why.

Most times I keep wondering why an Attorney of law, a man who claim to practice in the temple of justice will continue to paint his own state in bad light before the world. Does it mean he likes swimming in the ocean of blood?

I have made repeated efforts to talk to Onyeagocha as the candidate who want to represent my Owerri zone in the Nigerian senate come 2023 on the need for introspection and good conscience. I remain worried that he is not listening to good counselling for the overall wellbeing of Imo State and her citizens.

My concern is anchored and routed on the daily, weekly and monthly penchant of Uche Onyeagocha to hug the media networks calling out His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodimma as a purveyor of violence. To me this is immoral, vindictive and carelessness taken to extreme.

Why must a reasonable Imo son move from newspaper houses, to radio stations, to television stations and social media relentlessly making statements and interviews portraying his state government as doing absolutely nothing to combat insecurity.

I have come to the inevitable conclusion that Uche Onyeagocha is pretending to be right when he is knowingly wrong. I see him as driven by pure hate and politics. He is making every attempt to drive away investors from Imo State, if not, why paint such a gloomy picture of Imo State as a place where nothing is working and where everybody has deserted due to insecurity.

Personally, I am not a politician neither am I a member of any political party, but truth be told, I am truly worried. Worried in the sense that Uche Onyeagocha is spending millions of naira buying media time to lampoon the Governor of Imo State and the administration solely on insecurity. Does it mean that he cannot speak on other issues?

We all know the honest truth that the periodic insecurity is limited to only three out of twenty seven local government areas of Imo State namely Orsu, Orlu and Oru East. We also know that in the last few months life, to great extent has returned in these areas. So why the continuous hype by Onyeagocha that the entire Imo State is in flames.

My writing to the public stems from the fact that only yesterday, Mr. Peter Obi held three engagements in Imo State while Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha had about two publicized public engagements. If Imo State is not safe, how come people trooped out for these well publicized occasions.?

As a citizen of Imo State, I am equally concerned to see tranquility in my state. I am desirous of absolute peace. But I also know that peace is never absolute all over the world. Few days ago in the United States, Salmon Rushdie the author of Satanic Verses had one his his eyes gorged out at a public function. The opposition Republicans has not told the world that the entire America has collapsed.

I call on Imo people to join hands to assist the government of Imo State to maintain law and order. It is Governor Hope Uzodimma today, and it will be another governor tomorrow. Security is a citizenship engagement. We are all involved.

But spending stupendous amounts of money to buy media presence only to abuse the Governor and paint Imo State as riddled in blood is in bad taste and must be condemned by all people of good conscience.

For me, only Uche Onyeagocha is riddled in bloodbath. Only him is swimming in the ocean of blood not our beloved Imo State.

Dr. Innocent Iwuala is a medical practitioner and writes from Owerri West LGA.

GOV. UZODIMMA SEEKS PRESIDENTIAL APPROVAL FOR UPGRADING FMC OWERRI TO FMUTH AND ALVAN TO A FEDERAL UNIVERSITY

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma in his quest for academic excellence for Ndi Imo, has got Presidential nod for a University Teaching Hospital for the Medical Students of Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) and the full take over of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education by the Federal Government.

Briefing Presidential Villa Correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja, Governor Uzodimma disclosed that the plan is to upgrade the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Owerri to Federal University Teaching Hospital Owerri which will be made available for the maintenance and management of the Medical School approved by National University Commission (NUC).

The Governor further stated that Mr President has also given a nod to look into the conversion of Alvan Ikoku college of education to Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education which was suspended in 2015. This is following the institution’s compliance with the requisite requirements by the National University Commission (NUC).

Government of Imo State

Press Release

Uzodimma swears-in three Commissioner designates, 27 Sole Administrators, Thursday


Governor Hope Uzodimma will, Thursday, August 11, 2022, swear-in the three new Commissioner designates and the 27 Sole Administrators (SOLADS) for the Local Government Areas of Imo State.

The Commissioner designates include Chief Cosmas Maduba, Prof. Ukachukwu Iwuji Opara and Chief Jerry Ekemba.

The swearing-in ceremony takes place at the Sam Mbakwe expanded Executive Chambers, Government House, Owerri at 11am.

All the affected persons, according to the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu, are expected to be seated by 10am ahead of the arrival of the Governor.

Oguwike Nwachuku
Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor
August 10, 2022.

With a calm voice, low tone and full of emotions that should move a human to empathy, he pleaded for mercy, he pleaded to be spared and when all fell on deaf ears, he accepted his fate but made one last wish; to speak with the wife before his execution but the satanic agents of darkness pulled the trigger in a close range on him, with cold-heart and they deposited his body into a pit with several other decomposing bodies.

Man's inhumanity to another! This was how Ugochukwu Oliora of Amaebu Ebenator was abducted at Ekeututu and executed by his brothers from the same clan. May political sentiment not blind all from identifying the real enemies of the people. May the unjust hatred on the Executive Governor lead you not into justification of the gruesome murder of Ugochukwu and others.

His abductors could have been returning from work. They might as well be gainfully employed, of course how else could they have appeared innocently in the midst of everyone dressed well, good looking and in possession of AK 47 rifle and good mobile phone with quality camera for coverage. They might as well head for a wedding afterwards and blend in the society.

This is just an expository into the life of a criminal, a heartless one at that, blends with the society during the day with meaningful job - could be a barber, a keke rider, a business man or any other but a murderer at night. Promoted and proliferated by all who failed to speak against them but chose to comfortably criticize the State Government for security operations within the region.

Let no man cry fowl when the security agencies would swing into action against these criminals. Let no man criticize the Governor and security agencies for clamping down on these criminals either during their day appearance or their night operations because these crimes shall not go unpunished.

So when next that news or story lands on your desk and it's about the Governor killing his people, query your conscience, query your judgement and query the motives of the bearers of evil news who fail to inform rightly, the gruesome and unprovoked murder of Ugochukwu and others in Imo State.

Posterity will surely judge.

OIL BUNKERING AND PIPELINE VANDALISM MUST STOP - HOPE UZODIMMA

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has declared war against Oil Bunkering and Pipeline vandalism in the State.

The Governor made the declaration while meeting with the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources His Excellency, Timipre Marlin Sylva; the Chief of Defense Staff, General Lucky Irabor together with his entourage and the CEO of NNPC PLC, Mele Kyari at the Government House New Executive Chamber.

Governor Uzodimma in his address disclosed efforts the Shared Prosperity Government has made with joint forces of the security agencies to curb oil theft and secure oil production in the State which has been resuscitated from its low level production.

He further called more sophisticated collaboration between the Federal Government, NNPC Nigerian Limited, Stakeholders and the grassroots to eliminate the menace in the State.

Speaking earlier, the Minister for State Petroleum, H.E. Timipre Marlin Sylva commended the Governor on his efforts in curbing oil theft and securing oil facilities Imo State. He further raised the alarm that crude oil theft has become a national emergency and stressed on the urgent collaboration of the State, Stakeholders and the grassroots.

The Chief of Defense Staff, General Lucky Irabor disclosed that his leading security agencies would escalate actions to ensure that issues of oil theft and installations are stemmed. He added that it cannot be done without the help from the grassroots.

Government of Imo State 

Press Release 

Uzodimma distances self from social media report on Soludo's 

position on History study

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has distanced himself completely from a social media report where mischief makers linked him to a report that criticised Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State over his position on the reintroduction of history in schools.

Governor Soludo had recently suggested that the reintroduction of history in the Anambra State's school curriculum will go a long way in ensuring that the people know where they were coming from and where they are going. 

But the said mischief makers who are out to undermine Governor Uzodimma and create mistrust between him and Governor Soludo took to the Facebook to say that the Imo State Governor knocked his brother Governor Soludo and that the "re-introduction of History subject by Soludo will bring about bitterness against Nigerian government, cannot stand."

Governor Uzodimma said the report credited to him on Facebook was done by depraved minds who will never see anything good in what someone does, including the suggestion made by Governor Soludo on the reitroduction of history in our schools which he said is long overdue.

"It is only those who do not have anything to contribute to the society that would be against their history. Governor Soludo could not have been wrong in his suggestion that a people's history is key to their progress and development. Most developed countries of the World do not joke with their history just as the world is replete with the history of great men and women."

Governor Uzodimma therefore urged the public to disregard the report and remain positive in all all things.

Oguwike Nwachuku 

Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Governor 

August 8, 2022.

ONYEAGUOCHA'S MEN IN KILLING MODE AGAIN
Sir lambert okoro writes from owerri west, Imo state.
we have witnessed an unprecedented high level of violence which the current government is gallantly fighting to suppress and ensure that peace is restored in the state.

With recent killings, Onyeaguocha have suddenly lost his voice and went dumb over the these killings in Agwa, oguta local government, in tacit support and silent adulation of his boys for a job well done.

As a notorious anti statesman, onyeaguocha is famous for his candour in condemning the response of security agencies each time they record success against his boys in the state, in the fight against banditry.

Despite the effort of the state government which is manifest, some politicians in the state who are the unseen co hands in the series of these violence and banditry have sworn to keep Imo state in the news for bad reason. The killing of 4 police men, an APC stalwart and a pregnant woman police in agwa, oguta LGA, is condemnable and ought to be condemned by all men of good conscience but for uche onyeaguocha and co.

We have reluctantly accepted the only conclusion provided by our investigation and analysis of the recent events that, these kiliings are politically motivated by the PDP, led by their bulldog, uche onyeaguocha, who have constantly condemned the government's effort in steming the tide of violence and banditry in orlu and elsewhere in the state. We have it on good authority that uche onyeaguocha is deeply involved in the conspiracy and sponsorship of banditry raging on in the state.

We hereby call on the heads of security agencies in Nigeria to investigate uche onyeaguocha and his alleged involvement in this gruesome killing of 4 police men, an APC party stalwart and a pregnant officer in cold blood in Agwa, oguta local government and ensure that the law takes its cause.

GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA HEADS APC PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN IN SOUTH EAST


Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has been appointed to head the APC Presidential Campaign in South East. This is as a result of his tenacity in ensuring that the party wins all the elective positions in the zone ahead of 2023 General *Elections*.

This development is as a result of the move by the ruling party to create Zonal Directorates for the six geopolitical zones. Each of these geopolitical zones is to be headed by a serving Governor as rectified by the National Working Committee(NWC) and approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Gov. Hope Uzodimma few weeks ago had assured South-east stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that he and his fellow governors will ensure that peace and adequate security of lives and properties returns to the zone before the forthcoming general elections.

He went ahead to charge the reconciliation committee of the party to ensure that they bring everybody onboard while reminding party executives and *faithful* of their duties to man their polling units, wards and local government areas on election days and see that the party is voted for at all levels.

This appointment brings more responsibility and encouragement to Gov. Hope Uzodimma who has been vocal about his desire to see the entire South-east become an APC zone and will further work towards galvanizing votes for the APC and its Presidential Candidate in 2023.

With Gov. Hope Uzodimma in-charge of the South-east Zone Presidential Campaign, there is no doubt that the zone will unite to support and vote massively for the APC Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has all it takes to govern the country.

NIGERIA ARMY REFUTES NEWS OF HER PERSONNEL SACKING A COMMUNITY IN IMO STATE

The news making rounds on the sacking of a community in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, by the personnel of the Nigerian Army, has been refuted in a press release by the security agency.

The Army authority dismissed the publication as lacking in merit, having been economical with the truth on the operation. It was further described as an artwork of those opposed to peace and tranquility in the State as the story did not reflect the true situation.

According to the authority, in continuation of the security onslaught against criminal elements in Imo State, who have dominated a region of the State, the Nigeria Army embarked on an operation yesterday at the identified camps of these hoodlums in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State.

The joint operation yielded positive results with the Nigerian Army dislodging the hoodlums and razed down their camps. Various arms and ammunition were also recovered including their operational vehicles as well as some members of the gang.

Recall that security intelligence had before now, identified Orsu Local Government as the camping ground for the perpetrators of various crimes in Imo State. This has led to the various joint operations within the Local Government and environs.

In one of the operations, kidnapped Traditional Ruler from Okigwe Local Government and others alive were rescued and a shocking pit with decomposing bodies was discovered. Available evidence and confessional statement from an arrested member of the gang, revealed the practice of cannibalism in the camp.

Ever since then, the security agencies have been on a joint operation within the region and the recent was one of such. The Army authority therefore dismissed as untrue, the story of sacking the community and burning down properties of innocent citizens.

SHELL SET TO RESUME WORK ON-SITE IN IMO - HOPE UZODIMMA

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has disclosed that The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) will resume work in Imo State after being off-site for a while.

Governor Uzodimma stated this after receiving in audience, Shell's Managing Director, Osagie Okunbor at the Imo State Governor's Lodge in Abuja, as matters bordering on bunkering and theft of oil and company equipment were discussed with the conclusion of Shell returning back to site in Imo State.

UCHE ONYEAGOCHA DESPERATELY SEEKING THE ATTENTION OF GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA

Okere Andrew, MA


I have read another mischievous, piqued and maudlin online publication credited to Uche Onyeagocha over his ridiculous and derisory call for the immediate resignation of Gov. Hope Uzodimma which repletes with exaggerations that did not ring true.

It is not surprising and unbeknown to me that the PDP lynchpin will result to this self-seeking attention especially as it concerns insecurity in the state since it has become obvious that his party the PDP are covertly sponsoring the insecurity in Imo State while overtly sympathetic to them each time the state government clamps down on them after terrorising communities in the state.

It is clear to Uche Onyeagocha that his actions of March 9, 2019 governorship election at the collation center where he rushed to INEC table, grabbed the results sheets and tore it into shreds and was arrested, detained and prosecuted for it as well as the same man PDP used in staging a violent protest against the judgement of the Supreme Court are still evergreen in the memory of Imolites and having been compensated by the PDP with its Senatorial ticket, knows that it is dead on arrival.

His histrionics actions such as this, is but one of his petty ways of seeking attention and currying favour from Imolites using insecurity sponsored by his party as a rallying point. While Onyeagocha has nothing to show for his stay in Abuja as a Member of the House of Representatives from 2003-2007, he has continued to feed from the state Governor’s ranging from Okorocha to Ihedioha and derides any of them that refuses to “share the money” with him as he was after Okorocha now he is unto Gov. Hope Uzodimma.

Ordinarily, i have no business responding or giving life to childish conspiracies and lies spread by small cowardly man but for the benefit of the unsuspecting public, i have to set the records straight. Every well meaning Imolites can attest to the fact that Gov. Hope Uzodimma has been combating banditry and every form of criminality in the state which its resultant effects has been positive so far and commendable as well.

The recent killing of 7 persons in Owerri West by unknown gunmen is under investigation and just like their partners, they will be fished out and dealt with accordingly as the days of mercy are long over in the state and Gov. Hope Uzodimma is more than determined to give them a run for their criminality without sparing any of them and doesn’t in any way warrant a selfish call for his resignation.

It is rather unfortunate that instead of Uche Onyeagocha who hails from this part of Owerri zone where the incident happened, a zone he wants to clandestinely represent as their Senator to liaise with the state government and security agencies to arrest these perpetrators of this dastardly act, has resulted to playing cheap politics, clout chasing and written acrobatics just to smear the person of Gov. Hope Uzodimma.

Like the popular axiom, Those whom the gods wish to destroy they first make mad. Uche Onyeagocha is no different from his harebrained behaviour and seeing his desperation to go to Abuja again as a Senator, i call on him to tell Imolites what led to the mysterious death of 5 persons out of 12 that was found unconscious in his Obinze home as he lacks the moral grounds to accuse Gov. Hope Uzodimma of failing his duty as the Governor of Imo State.

I therefore have one message for Uche Onyeagocha and their politically sponsored gunmen and i say this: Gov. Hope Uzodimma is coming. No matter what rock you crawl under, what hole you sink into, what forest you habitat, what lie you hide behind, Gov. Hope Uzodimma is coming!.

IMO STATE GOVERNMENT'S PARTNERSHIP WITH WORLD BANK STRENGTHENED

...as Governor Uzodimma meets with Country Director, World Bank.

His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma met with the World Bank Country Director, Shubham Chandhuri, during the weekend at the Imo State Governor's Lodge, Abuja.

The duo had fruitful discussions geared towards strengthening the existing partnership and collaboration between the Imo State Government and the World Bank.

In his briefing, the Governor expressed optimism of an improved venture, in the near future, between the State and the World Bank.

HOPE UZODIMMA: FIXING IMO HEALTH CENTERS ONE STEP AT A TIME


It is a reality that when health is lost, all is lost and this is irrespective of both individual and Government attention to other aspects of human endeavor. This has made it important especially for Government at any level to prioritize the welfare of her people, if any meaningful developmental projects must be sustained.

The position of the shared prosperity Government of Gov. Hope Uzodimma is no different from a government that has placed the welfare of the people as it concerns their health side by side with his determination to bring uneven development to the State.

With the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic, a global health threat barely four (4) months of his administration, demonstrated an extraordinary leadership quality by facing squarely the zoonotic virus for the good of Imolites while shouldering the demands of governance in the State. This effort was complimented by the setting up of isolation centers and the provisions of ambulances to the 27 LGAs of the State.

His determination to reposition the health sector has continued to take the center stage of his administration despite the obvious challenges posed by global economic downturn, insecurity, etc. This has propelled Gov. Hope Uzodimma to do more as he has declared a medical revolution in both primary and secondary health sectors of the State through the rehabilitation and reconstruction of health centers in the State.

As at today, health centers across the State have taken a new shape and look with the intervention of State Government whilst ensuring that both equipment and health workers meet with the demands of the people in line with global best practices in our health sector.

This bold step of fixing Imo Health Centers may be a gradual step but steady. It is a work in progress which has never been undertaken by any Government in the State before as it exposes the sincerity of the present administration and the so much desire of getting Imo State a responsive health sector. As at today, 240 out of the 305 primary health care centers have been completed while the remaining 65 are still under renovation.

While imolites have yearned for this successful leap in the health sector for long, it is understandable that they continue to bear with the State Government while supporting its efforts to get our health sector working efficiently and productively in order to deliver for the greater good of all.

GROUP UNVEIL ONYEAGOCHA AS SPONSOR FOR TERRORISTS ATTACKS IN IMO.

IMO COALITION FOR JUSTICE, PEACE AND TRUE DEMOCRACY OF NIGERIA
has unraveled the one of the top sponsors behind the mindless terrorists and bandits attacks on imo people and the state as UCHE ONYEAGOCHA.

We wish to bring to the notice of inspector general of police , the government of Imo State and the all relevant security authorities that Chief uche onyeagocha has been fingered to have masterminded and sponsored Banditry, terrorists related activities and ESN operatives in the burning down of the Ohanaeze Igbo chairman , prof. George obiozor . This was part of the confession made from arrests made by the Nigerian police of culprits who owned up to the crime.

They further stated that the former house of representative member put them on salaries enjoining them to cause mayhem in the state, confessing to the gruesome killing of senator gulak and the traditional rulers at njaba local government area.
Chief onyeagocha cronies had also confessed to the murder of one Chief Ukwachilaka .
The rate of this dastardly activities was born upon the eviction of the pdp administration by the supreme court , the culprits confessed that uche onyeagocha was a major sponsor of bandits and terror related activities and major financier of ESN operatives in the state.
We call on leadership of the state to immidiately order the arrest and investigation of Chief uche onyeagocha to stop the mindless killings and blackmail against the democracy of Imo State.
We solidly believe that if chief onyeagocha is not brought to face the law the grief of loved ones to those massacred in their numbers by Bandits/ESN terrorists cannot be consoled.



Ahumaraeze chinonso

Secretary

GOV. UZODIMMA RECEIVES NEW MANAGEMENT OF UNION BANK PLC

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma yesterday, received the new Management Team of Union Bank Plc, led by the Chairman, Mr. Farouk Gumel at Government House Owerri.

Governor Uzodimma called on the new Management Team of the bank, for an improved presence across the State, by way of Corporate Social Responsibility from the bank.

Speaking earlier on behalf of the management and staff of the bank, the Chairman, Union Bank, Mr. Farouk Gumel, commended the Governor for the warm reception and reassured of the banks willingness to embark on partnership with the State.

Uzodinma is governor at a peculiar time but means well for Ndi Imo

It was over breakfast with former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Sir Jude Agbaso when he said to me, "Obinna, if there is one thing I am certain about, it's the fact that Gov Hope Uzodinma really wants to work for Ndi Imo. We have seen governors come and go and you don't need a soothsayer to tell you that Uzodinma wants to leave a legacy behind by the time he leaves office."

I agree with Sir Jude Agbaso.

Listening to Gov Hope Uzodimma flagging off the Owerri to Umuahia road the other day, I heard a man with a passion to work for his people. A man who is not distracted from the mission to give his people they best he can offer to give them.

Gov Hope Uzodinma became governor of Imo State at a very peculiar time, when the insurgency and banditry we used to read on the pages of newspapers as regular occurance in the North, suddenly decided to come down to the South East.

From Chief Achike Udenwa to Dr Ikedi Ohakim, down to Senator Rochas Okorocha, it has never been this bad and Imo is not peculiar. It is all over the South East.

A lot of people have their opinion over how the matter would have been handled but let me ask you Mr armchair critic, if you were governor and a band of armed men who aren't ready to reason with you, decide to hijack a part of your state, what would you do?

Would you allow them have a field day or will you invite those who's job it is, to handle such situations?

Gov Hope Uzodimma is not a security expert so he invited those who we employed to protect us when such situations arise. Admittedly, there have been some wrong calls by our security operatives leading to loss of innocent lives, but should we blame Uzodinma for their mistakes? The people we should blame are those of us sponsoring the banditry. You should blame yourself if you are amongst those protecting the bandits and criminals who started this madness in the first place.

I saw videos of people cheering the "unknown gunmen" that terrorised Owerri some time ago and we failed to realise that they were laying the ground for the Insecurity we are experiencing today.

If there is another way you think Gov Hope Uzodinma would have taken to arrest the situation, I'm yet to see your detailed submission on the matter. All we see is your criticism without proffering any solution.

When Okorocha was in charge, the sincere ones amongst us who tackled his excesses, did not do so because we expected something from him neither were we agents of political parties, hired to attack Okorocha. We did so as concerned citizens, proffering ideas and ways Okorocha would have done better and save himself the disgrace he has since been attracting to his name because of his misrule in Imo.

What Gov Hope Uzodinma needs from you is advise not attack.

He is not without faults as none of us is faultless and as such, he needs guidance and support from you to aid he get the job done.

When all he gets from you is attacks, how then do you expect him to work according to your desires? He is not a magician to know what you want or don't want and since you aren't talking to him, he's left with no option but to do what he feels is right, sometimes at your disapproval.

But then, you didn't give him the avenue and opportunity for communication.

We landed into the disaster that was Okorocha because we refused to give Ohakim the avenue for communication even when he gave Ndi Imo the opportunity to relate with him.

We are at it again with Uzodinma.

Those people telling you they are better might turn out to become our greatest nightmares if they finally get into power.

Our experience with Okorocha should have taught us a lot. Unfortunately many of us are gearing up to make the 2011 mistake all over again.

Hope Uzodinma is governor and until he leaves office, what he needs from you is your support.

Your support can come through advise or through constructive criticism backed with solutions to help guide him.

Good governance goes beyond being a member of a political party. If PDP for instance made people become saints and administrative gurus, how then did somebody Okezie Ikpeazu become the worst governor in Nigeria? Party doesn't make a man good or bad. You're either a good administrator or you're a bad administrator.

In the area of infrastructure, Gov Hope Uzodinma has demonstrated a desire to give Imo the best.

He met a state at the brink of infrastructural collapse and some people expect him to be a magician and fix what Okorocha spent eight years destroying in less that three years.

Let's be realistic and stop playing to the gallery. The regime of Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha spent 8 months and no road was built because he had to access the mess he was walking into and understand where to start addressing it from.

We were patient with him yet with several infrastructural achievements by Uzodinma since he took over, we refuse to he patient with him. That's being unfair.

With all the bailouts, Paris Club refunds, bumper allocations, massive borrowing Okorocha had, he didn't leave a single motorable road in the whole of Imo State when he left in 2019.

Today Nigeria is almost cash crunched yet Uzodinma is going to Abuja begging everyday like the late Chief Sam Mbakwe did, to make sure he can get more things for his people.

O, so you think he is going to Abuja to do jamboree? Nwoke is going there to beg on your behalf yet what we pay him back with is disdain.

Very soon Orlu, Okigwe and Owerri to Umuahia roads would be completed while he addresses the inner roads one after the other and God willing, recover Imo to a considerable level before he leaves office.

In the area of penisons, I know a lot of pensioners now receiving their timely pensions. There may be some people who haven't been captured but I am hopeful that they would all be captured and receive their dues.

For eight years of Okorocha, no penisoner got a Kobo yet the man who is doing something about it is being crucified by the people he is working for.

This is usually how we move from frying pan to fire.

Ohakim was paying salaries and pensions but we didn't like him and brought in the "man of the people" who ended up asking pensioners why they were still alive and refused to pay them for eight years.

I am confident that every legitimate civil servant who has because of errors they brought upon themselves probably due to wrong documentations, would be addressed while the ghosts would all be weeded out.

Imo State is not about Hope Uzodinma. It's not about APC or PDP or any political party. Imo State is all about you and I. Ya riri mma oriri la mu na gi. Ya rikwanu njoo, na still all of us to cry. How can we make the state better? Lend your support let's stop insecurity and foster development and growth in the state.

It lies in your hands to move Imo forward.

GOV. UZODIMMA CALLS FOR PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE CHURCH TO WIN THE WAR AGAINST MISINFORMATION AND FALSEHOOD.

Collaboration between the Government and the Church is critical to the fight against rumor mongering and misinformation.

This is according to the
Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma.

Governor Uzodimma stated this at the St. John Beloved Catholic Church at Umuna Ahu Uratta, Owerri on Sunday during a thanksgiving Service to mark one year of the death of Chief (Sir) Patrick Chukwuemeka Chikeka, husband of the Chief Judge of Imo State, Justice Theresa Chikeka.
 
The Governor specifically charged the leadership of the Church not to be deceived by misinformation flying around over the recent incident at Awo Omamma involving security operatives and some bad boys.

He charged the Church in particular and  members of the public at large not to swallow hook, line and sinker any information without taking the pains to crosscheck their authenticity.
 
 
Governor Uzodimma further challenged the Church leadership to take seriously the activities of some desperate politicians in Imo State who are deliberately working to destabilise the government and the state at large using false information as their tool of trade.

 
Throwing more light on the Awo Omamma incident, the Governor said that the security operatives acted on intelligence that the deceased were heading for a meeting at their Camp in Awo Omamma where they usually plan on how to enforce the Monday sit-at-home order in that part of Imo State.
 
His words: "My administration will never be part of the killing of my people."
 
 
Governor Uzodimma reiterated that the primary reason government exists is the protection of lives and property of the citizenry, and that the worse thing that can happen to a society is if government abandons her responsibility to non state actors.
 
He explained: "There is no responsible government that would want to take life because the reason for government is to protect lives and property. There is also no responsible government that would encourage any act that would take human life, particularly innocent lives."

GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA TO FLAG-OFF THE RECONSTRUCTION OF TWO FEDERAL ROADS TOMORROW

All is now set to flag-off the reconstruction of Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road and Orlu-Mgbee-Akokwa road tomorrow, Tuesday 26th July 2022.

The flag-off ceremony has been scheduled to hold by 9:00am for the Orlu-Mgbee-Akokwa road (at Orlu Mobil Filling Station), 11:00am for the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road, point one (at Fire Service Junction) and 1:00pm for the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road, point two (at Enyiogwugwu Junction).

The general public is hereby invited to witness this eppch-making event in the history of road revolution in Imo State by the Shared Prosperity administration of His Excellency the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.

GOV. UZODIMMA CHARGES SOUTHEAST APC PARTY STAKEHOLDERS ON FLAWLESS WIN TOWARDS 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS

The Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma has charged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on a flawless win in the upcoming 2023 General Elections.

His Excellency stated this during the APC South East Zonal Stakeholders' meeting held yesterday, at Rockview Hotels Owerri with notable party stalwarts from the region in attendance.

Speaking one after the other, the leaders expressed conviction of victory at the poll and encouraged all party faithful to form a united front ahead of the 2023 General Elections.

Among other Party Chairmen and Leaders who spoke, the Imo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), McDonald Ebere Ph.D, outlined the numerous giant strides of the Shared Prosperity Government, their strategies as well as the achievements of the party on ground.

He further stressed the need to focus the campaign on purposeful governance to the people.

GOVERNOR UZODIMMA SWEARS IN NEW HEAD OF SERVICE, CHIEF POLITICAL ADVISER

Following their recent appointments, Governor Hope Uzodimma today, performed the swearing-in ceremony for Barr. Obioma Ucheoma as the Head of Service and Barr. Enyinna Onuegbu as the Chief Political Adviser / Head of Political Bureau to the Government of Imo State.

In his address to the appointees, His Excellency charged them to bring in their wealth of experience from their numerous years of public service to bear in the discharge of their duties.

The event which took place at the new Exco Chamber, Government House Owerri, had in attendance, the Deputy Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Prof. Placid Njoku, Rt. Hon. Kennedy Ibe, Speaker Imo State House of Assembly and other top Government officials.