Government of Imo State

Press release

SAPZ: Uzodimma commits Imo to highest standard on implementation

... Leads three other Govs for a meeting with AfDB President in Cote d' Iviore

Governor Hope Uzodimma has pledged the commitment of Imo State to the highest standards in infrastructure and management that would be required to attract global, regional and national investors for the successful delivery of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones(SAPZ) Programme.

Imo was one of the States chosen for the African Development Bank (AfDB) - sponsored SAPZ Programme in collaboration with other development banks and the federal government, as a veritable strategy in the transformation of the Nigerian agriculture sector, through industrialization.

Other States include: Kaduna, Ogun and Oyo.

Senator Uzodimma as the focal Governor for the programme reaffirmed Imo State's commitment to the scheme in his remarks on Tuesday in Cote d' Iviore during a meeting with the President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina and his team as well as representatives of the development partners and the federal government.

During the meeting hosted by Dr. Akinwunmi, Governor Uzodimma and his brother governors - Nasir el- Rufai (Kaduna), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Seyi Makinde (Oyo), reaffirmed their unalloyed commitment to a government-enabled, private sector-driven SAPZ implementation model, as agreed by all parties.

Also in attendance at the high level interface were: Prof. Doyin Salami, the Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mr. Uche Orji, Managing Director the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and Mr. Farouk Mohammed Gumel, NSIA Chairman.

The audience from the African Development Bank Group included: The President of the Bank, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina; Senior Vice President, B. S. Tshabalala; Beth Dunford; Vice President, Agriculture, Human and Social Development, Solomon Quaynor; Vice President, Private Sector, Infrastructure and industrialization, Dr. Victor Oladokun, Senior Adviser to the President on Communications, Strategy and Stakeholder Engagement, and several others.

Imo State was selected as one of the four pilot states that will kick start the Special Agro-industrial processing zones in Nigeria.

Consequently, Senator Uzodinma emerged the focal governor of the programme ahead of its official launch on February, this year in Abuja.

The SAPZ is a government enabled, private sector driven action plan aimed at quickening the transformation of the Nigerian agricultural sector through industrialization.

The African Development Bank and consortium of international organizations are driving the implementation of the programme.

Governor Uzodinma and his colleagues Tuesday in Cote d'Ivoire met with the Dr Adesina and heads of the other organizations for the signing of agreements for the take-off of the programme four weeks time.

Speaking on the occasion, Senator Uzodinma as the focal governor pledged on behalf of his colleagues to ensure that the programme succeeds.

"As the focal governor of SAPZ,I have dedicated the full instrumentality of my office to the provision of enabling environment for the kick off of the programme", he affirmed.

Uzodinma said he desires that the programme becomes a veritable strategy that will enhance agriculture and industrialization in Nigeria.

He urged both the institutions and states selected for the first phase of the programme to work in concert to attract global, regional and national investors to fully populate the zones.

All parties in attendance reaffirmed their strong commitment to the shared goal of a stable and prosperous Nigeria and underscored the need for a speedy, successful delivery of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme.

The Governors in particular reaffirmed their unalloyed commitment to a government-enabled, private sector-driven SAPZ implementation model, as agreed by all the stakeholders.

The meeting recognized the role of the NSIA as critical to an effective private sector engagement and overall efficient implementation off the SAPZ Programme, hence the Nigerian Government representatives signed a letter of intent re-affirming the NSIA's role in procuring Transaction Advisers; Design Consultants; Zone Construction Companies and Facility Management Service Providers, all geared towards ensuring an efficient, speedy, transparent and open process.

In fact, all parties were united in expressing the expectation that the Zones' infrastructure and management will be of the highest standards capable of attracting global, regional and national investors (Anchor and other tenants) to fully populate the zones.

Meanwhile, all stakeholders at the meeting, look forward to the official launch of the Nigerian SAPZ Programme in Abuja, February ending to be chaired by President Buhari.

Ministers of leading implementation Ministries of the SAPZ Programme and the Governors of the States included in the Programme's first phase will also be in attendance.

President of the AfDB, as well as President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and representatives of the development communities and key investors will also attend the February event in Abuja.

Oguwike Nwachuku

Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to Governor

January 25, 2022

Hope Uzodimma, 3 Governors depart Nigeria to Abidjan, Cote d’ voire for Economic Growth Programme with Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority –AfDB

The meeting convened by the African Development Bank (ADB) will have HE. Hope Uzodimma speaking on Imo State's commitment to becoming a major hub for agro-processing and other revolutionary initiatives to making Imo a destination in the Macro-Economic sector

More details loading...

ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)

PRESS RELEASE


CLOWNING ROCHAS IN ANOTHER INFANTILE DRAMA

...Should stop abusing Uzodimma's dignified magnanimity

...Will be given 'Ihedioha style' if he continues with his outdated blackmail



The attention of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Imo State chapter chaired by the erudite and vibrant Hon. Macdonald K. Ebere, PhD, KSJI, has been drawn to a sarcastic video clip circulating on social media where the infamous Rochas Okorocha was seen alluding to the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, with a song that no one should vote for someone that shot God.


As disgusting and mischievous as Rochas Okorocha can be, we as a party, wonder whether he has gone insane because it is most improbable that any mortal can shoot at invisible and Almighty God.


That was the kind of wicked and cheap blackmail that he orchestrated against former Governor Ikedi Ohakim in the run-up to the 2011 gubernatorial election, which impressionable Imo people, who thought a "liberator" has come, fell for; however, truth is that the misleading vocalization by a politically doomed fellow like Rochas Okorocha is trite, bland and cannot fly this time.


We maintain that the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, did not at any time order the arrest of Uche Nwosu and there was no gunshot in the said church, on the day of the arrest and no one was hurt.


Irrespective of the statement by the Police that they carried out the arrest of Uche Nwosu, the Senator representing Imo West, has abandoned the legislative duties (for which he was elected by hook or by crook), for political vendetta against Gov. Uzodimma and vigorously embarked upon persistent but futile chase of cheap political capital out of what is sheer security operation by the Nigeria Police, which is totally unconnected to the Governor.


It would be recalled that it was the same 'Saint Rochas Okorocha,' who toward the tail end of his inglorious administration, (which pauperized majority of Imo people, despite his wild claims) committed a lot of unpardonable atrocities against Imo people including the beating and pushing down of reverenced Archbishop Obinna in a church by his hatchet men.

Interestingly, Imo people are smart and intelligent enough that they cannot be hoodwinked and robbed again by a man that turned governance to a one-man show and family affair.


In keeping with his dignified nature as a true democrat and lover of peace, Governor Uzodimma has never for once thought of or moved to prevent Rochas Okorocha from entering the State despite his barbaric and provocative antics.


Be that as it may, Rochas Okorocha should not misjudge the goodwill of Gov. Uzodimma as weakness and should equally not underestimate the capacity and capability of the government to wield the big stick.

Senator Rochas Okorocha should also remember that during the 7-month illegal tenure of Emeka Ihedioha in Imo State, (because he, Ihedioha never won any election), he was prevented from entering the State with the then Secretary to the Government lying in wait for him at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport - this step, the APC-led government under Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma does not want to take but Rochas Okorocha should desist from making any further mistake.



From all indications, it is not yet time for electioneering and why the desperate Rochas Okorocha, who is ruled by vanity, greed, envy and vaulting ambition should jump-start the election timetable by circulating the acrimonious campaign video clip on social media, is a matter of serious national concern, which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Federal Government of Nigeria, should not treat with levity.


Obviously, Senator Rochas Okorocha is neither a statesman nor a true democrat. He is only in pursuit of power mainly to serve his personal and immediate family interests.



APC! EVERYWHERE YOU GO!

Signed:
Cajetan Duke
State Publicity Secretary
Thursday, January 20, 2022.

PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY IN IMO STATE; HOW HAS HOPE UZODIMMA FAILED IMO?

As a little teenager, I have joined Orji Uratta Youths to demonstrate against incessant water outage by Imo State Water Board.

During the reign of Governor Ikedi Ohakim, the advent of borehole water became so popular and common that virtually the lowest cadre of the middle class would afford to sink a borehole.

Hence the Imo State Water Corporation was neglected. When Rochas took over power he killed the organization and buried it even went as far as leasing their properties and residence to private individuals.

As such the advent of public water supply was gone! The effect was direct on the people as the cost of renting a decent two bedroom apartment in owerri rose to over 200% because the landlord would add the cost of sinking a borehole to the rent. Hence a two bedroom apartment within owerri municipality that went for 100k to 120 was going for 200k to 300k per annum minus other ancillary fees.

However, following the validation of the authenticity of the mandate of senator Hope Uzodimma, as Governor of Imo State, by the Apex court, the Governor immediately set out to revamp ailing industries in Imo State, which the Water Corporation was among.

Praise be to God, as at today, 18-01-22, the water corporation is fully in operation as public water supply has been restored in some parts of the state, like Aladinma, World bank and Orogwe. In a few weeks, the entire state will be reconnected to the public water supply grid.

Looking at this great work done in this regard by restoring public water supply in Imo State, I dare to ask those who erroneously held the very weak opinion that Uzodimma has performed poorly, "how has Uzodimma failed"?

Unegbu, Onyedikachi Victor-Wallace

Writes from Owerri.

ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS

PRESS STATEMENT

IMO PDP’S EVALUATION OF UZODIMMA’S GOVT, UTTERLY BIASED, UNFOUNDED, PREJUDICED AND UNPATRIOTIC

-UZODIMMA’S TWO-YEAR SCORECARD: BRILLIANT, UNPRECEDENTED AND PHENOMENAL.

The attention of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Imo State chapter under the indefatigable chairmanship of Hon. Macdonald Kelechi Ebere, PhD, KSJI, has been drawn to a sloppy, incoherent and unfounded press statement credited to the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Imo State, wherein they passed a jaundiced, misleading, biased, dishonest and undeserving verdict on Governor Hope Uzodimma’s two years in office.

Inasmuch as we are not threatened or perturbed by such uncomplimentary, fallacious and mischievous remark from the PDP, as we do not expect or anticipate that our roundly defeated and angry opponent to cheer and applaud our superlative performance, however, what we find very worrisome and irritating is the penchant of the leadership of PDP for fabrication and propagation of falsehood, distortion of facts and figures to achieve premeditated and ill-conceived political objectives.

It is no longer news that the opposition PDP has never seen anything good in Imo State since His Excellency Distinguished Hope Uzodimma, recovered from them the stolen mandate of Imo people through the instrumentality of the law, as a true statesman and democrat on that faithful and remarkable day of January 14, 2020, which has been christened by our people as "Imo Day of Liberation." It is however, regrettable to note that the party has shamelessly maintained crass impudence, regardless of its seven- month illegitimate occupation of government house, without penitence. What a people?

Before now, we had deliberately refrained from joining issues with the irritating opposition PDP. We would have ignored this latest ranting of habitual losers, which could be succinctly described as a reflection of their current state of frustration, hopelessness, desperation and lack of direction, but for the purpose of clarity especially to undiscerning members of the public, we urge Imo people to disregard that illusory, manipulative and erroneous account of PDP.

Our party wishes to state that contrary to the inaccurate and malicious account of the Imo PDP, the shared prosperity administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma has within this period under review, regardless of numerous challenges ranging from PDP sponsored Supreme Court judgment protests, EndSARS, COVID19, and Unknown Gunmen, etched his name in gold in the history of contemporary Imo State, through the undistracted implementation of the “3R” mantra of Recovery, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of his administration.

To the admiration of "nde"Imo, on whose mandate he's the governor today, Uzodimma has continued to lay solid foundation for sustainable economic development and prosperity of our dear Imo, through the recovery of looted public properties and assets, rehabilitation of moribund facilities like Standard Shoe Industry, Acharaubo farm Settlement, Emekuku etc and reconstruction of decayed infrastructure occasioned by a decade of maladministration in the state.

Nothing could be more reassuring and fulfilling to the people of Imo State than the recovery of the K.O Mbadiwe University, Ogboko- a 40 billion naira investment of Imo tax payers money fraudulently converted to personal property and the uncompromising implementation of the white paper recommendations on land allocation in Imo State among other brilliant achievements of this administration. Much as we inherited some of these policies from the PDP government, which were in line with our campaign promises to "nde Imo," what we have come to realize to our bewilderment, is that PDP would never had mustered the political will and courage to implement and execute the recommendations of these committees. For a party like PDP, it is politics first before the welfare of the people!

The urban renewal project of the shared prosperity administration, which has restored the ambiance of Owerri municipality and eliminated entirely the ugly traffic congestion in the city, is another phenomenal scorecard of the people's governor, which the manipulative devices of the opposition PDP has not been able to diminish.

Imolites are very much aware that while our governor was relentlessly and pragmatically wedging war against perpetrators and sponsors of insecurity in our dear state, the Imo State School of Medicine, Orlu regained its long lost accreditation and eventually graduated over 50 set of medical doctors for the first time in the last 10 years, courtesy of Uzodimma's sterling leadership. Interestingly, Some of the successful medical doctors, are sons and daughters of prominent PDP leaders in the state.

We want to place it on record that in spite of all the antics employed by the opposition PDP to distract and discredit this administration, Uzodimma has remained undoubtedly focused, determined, resilient and committed to giving Imo people and residents, dividends of democracy in line with his campaign promises of shared prosperity.

While we will not embark on a needless marathon of mentioning all the completed and ongoing roads projects under this administration, we will however not fail to highlight some of the prominent ones for purpose of this response - the dualization and rehabilitation of Owerri-Orlu road, the dualization and rehabilitation of Owerri- Okigwe road, the reconstruction of Akachi road, the reconstruction of Control post-Ibari Ogwa Junction, Rehabilitation of Dick Tiger, reconstruction of Chukwuma Nwoha road, Rehabilitation of Relief Mkt/ Ihechiuwa road, reconstruction of Nekede Polytechnic-Ihiagwa road, Oparanozie- Amaigbo_ Edede street, Imo State University Teaching Hospital road, construction of Omuma- Eleh road etc.

We are delighted and proud like every patriotic and well-meaning Imolite with the two-year scorecard of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma. It is nothing short of brilliant, unprecedented, phenomenal and verifiable.

APC... Everywhere you go!!


Signed:

CAJETAN DUKE
State Publicity Secretary,
January 17, 2022.

Gov. Hope Uzodimma Mourns Chief Ernest Shonekan

The Imo State Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Hope Uzodimma has mourned the demise of Nigeria's former Interim Head of State, Chief Ernest Shonekan.

The Governor, who, this morning, ordered flags in Imo State Government House and indeed all Government offices in the State to fly at half mast, described Chief Ernest Shonekan as forthright man who courageously stood in the gap when it was risky to do so, but all in a bid to protect the unity of Nigeria.

Chief Ernest Adegunle Oladeinde Shonekan GCFR, the Ogun State born statesman, was a Nigerian lawyer who served as the interim Head of State of Nigeria from 26 August 1993 to 17 November 1993. He was titled Abese of Egbaland from 1981.

He was aged 85 years, and lived a fulfilled life.
He will be remembered as a man who dedicated his life to the service of his fatherland.

May his soul rest in peace. Amen.

IMO STATE GOVERNMENT REINSTATES SUPPORT FOR INEC, ENJOINS IMO PEOPLE TO REGISTER TO VOTE

His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has reaffirmed the State's partnership with the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC as they carry out their constitutional assignment.

The Governor said this when he received the Resident electoral officer for Imo State.

Governor Uzodimma commended the wisdom of the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC in converting some voting points to polling units in the state and ensured better outcome of registration now there is peace in the State.

Governor Uzodimma also called on Imo people register to vote for it is only through electoral franchise that citizens fight marginalization and other concerns as against voter apathy”.

ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)

PRESS RELEASE

IMO APC IS ONE UNITED PARTY UNDER HON. MACDONALD EBERE, Ph.D


...DAN NWAFOR IS FAKE, NOT MEMBER OF APC



The All Progressives Congress, APC, Imo State chapter under the competent leadership of Hon Macdonald K. Ebere, PhD, KSJI, describes as vile, repulsive, childish and foolish, a press release by one Michael Anyanwu, (which apparently is a pseudo name as such name does not exist in the records of the APC Imo State chapter), laying provocative and false claim to the leadership of the party in the State for one Dan Nwafor.

Though worthless and not deserving of our response, but for clarification purposes and the benefits of our teaming members we want to make it manifestly clear that the APC in Imo State has no two chairmen. We do not have two factions either. Imo State APC is one united family held under one article of faith, and ably led by our indefatigable nay visionary Hon. Macdonald Ebere, as chairman and His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, as the leader.

It is important to inform the general public, esteemed party faithful and relevant authorities that Daniel Nwafor, who illegally parades himself as party Chairman, is not a member of the APC as presently constituted, having failed to revalidate his membership during the just concluded membership registration and revalidation exercise of our great party after his ill-fated and catastrophic sojourn to the Action Alliance (AA) from where he campaigned and worked against all APC candidates including His Excellency, Gov Hope Uzodimma and President Muhamadu Buhari.


After an unchallenged and successful state congress of our great party in Imo State and across the nation, which was widely held as most credible, free and transparent party congress in recent time, we find Nwafor's claim as not only a manifestation of epic hallucination but the height of what his jaundiced political benefactor coined as 'political iberiberism"


We therefore urge party members as well as the reading public to disregard such worthless publications from the said Dan Nwafor, while we call on the Nigeria Police to arrest him or anyone acting on his behalf because he is an embarrassing imposter and not member of the APC.


APC! EVERYWHERE YOU GO!


Signed:

CAJETAN DUKE
State Publicity Secretary.
Monday, January 10, 2022.

IMO BUBBLES AGAIN AS UZODIMMA TACKLES INSECURITY

In what seemed like an intercontinental carnival, the people of Imo State and visitors alike, trooped into the city of Owerri and environs in celebration of the yuletide.

Prior to the holidays, the opposition in the State had vigorously campaigned against the State, urging Imolites and tourists not to visit the State for whatever reasons as their security wouldn't be guaranteed.

But then, upon the assurance of safety and protection by the People's Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, Imolites and tourists disregarded the unpatriotic call and came to Imo in their numbers.

Evidently, all domestic flights inbound Owerri were fully booked as from December 15th 2021 through to the New Year. At the moment, all outbound are fully booked up on till next week as visitors and Ndi Imo in Diaspora return back to their bases. Hoteliers and road transporters are having a swell time with massive patronage as was the case of Imo of yester years.

These are products of the intelligence based approach of the security formations and architecture as initiated by His Excellency Gov. Hope Uzodimma. The Governor had severally reassured Imolites, at home and in diaspora, of his administration's commitment to a secured State. And they now attest to the fact.

Today, peace has returned to Imo State. The State is bubbling once more, with the hospitality industry and sundry jollofing services are flourishing under the peaceful atmosphere birthed by His Excellency the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma. We can only thank God for these new lease of life. Well done Gov. Hope Uzodimma.

OBASANJO STRIKES AGAIN, DENIES ARARUME NNPC CHAIRMANSHIP SLOT.


The least may not have been heard on the much anticipated inauguration of NNPC board by president Muhammadu Buhari .

Recall in the third quarter of last year, news has it that Sen ifeanyi araraume was appointed by President Buhari to chair the newly incorporated NNPC board but got suspended hours to his inauguration due to petitions of money laundering written against him by the former president of Nigeria Olusegun obasanjo.

Sen Araraume , for decades has been fighting the political battle of his life ever since he fell out with former president, Olusegun obasanjo.

Earlier today , the special adviser to president Buhari , Mr Femi Adesina made a release on the inauguration of the board of NNPC LIMITED with Sen Margaret Chuka Okadigbo as chairman of the board ,while Mele Kolo Kyrari serves as chief executive officer and Umar I .Ajiya as chief financial officer.

Reports has it that Sen ifeanyi araraume's removal from the chairmanship of the newly incorporated NNPC board may not be unconnected with his misunderstanding with Chief Obasanjo, as the former president as for years vowed to frustrate the Isiebu born politician given the deal the both had that went sour .

*WE HAVE RESTORED DEMOCRACY IN IMO, SAYS GOV. UZODIMMA AS STAKEHOLDERS PASS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE ON STATE GOVERNMENT*

The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has declared that his government has succeeded in restoring democracy in the State. The Governor made the declaration during the State’s 6th stakeholders meeting involving leaders drawn from across the State.

According to the Governor, his government was founded on the democratic principles of open, transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance.

“I am sure that many of us will readily recall that there was once upon a time, when the governance process of Imo State was shrouded in secrecy. Not only did Imo people not know how their State was governed, there was in fact a big wedge between the people and the government. So wide was the wedge that those who attempted to cross it to know what was happening in government got marooned in it. I challenge anyone to produce one single document of the previous administration where it showcased its report card to the people of the State.”

“It was this regrettable state of affairs that informed my resolve to run an open, transparent, accountable and inclusive government. As you very well know, on each of the six occasions we have met, I have documented an address detailing an account of my stewardship. This is accountability in action.

So, I can proudly declare at this point that with your support we have restored democracy to Imo State, because we have restored the process of open, accountable and inclusive governance. Yes, we have banished the dark ages of government by necromancy and replaced it with the government of the people, for the people and by the people. Congratulations to all of us,” the Governor declared.

The stakeholders meeting, which was chaired by Mr. Leo Stan Eke, Chairman Zenox Group and drew massive attendance from across the State, saw the Governor give an account of his stewardship as his administration nears its second anniversary.

Governor Hope Uzodimma, while delivering his account of stewardship, informed the people of the State of the accomplishment of his government in 16 broad sectors of governance within two years of his administration. The sectors included Road Infrastructure, Security, Local Government Administration, Revenue generation, Agriculture, Tourism Health, Land Administration, Commerce and Industry and Education, among others.

“For us one of our greatest achievements in the education sector is the recovery of the K. O. Mbadiwe University for Imo people. As you may well know, the University was built and furnished with tax-payers money of not less than 40 billion naira. Yet, an individual abusing his office as Governor, brazenly wanted to appropriate it to himself as a privately owned establishment. I am glad to report to you that at the second week of December, I received a certificate of ownership for the university on behalf of the Government and the people of Imo State. Today, as we speak, that university is now the rightful property of Imo State,” he disclosed.

On Commerce and Industry, the Governor said his administration had commenced moves to revamp all moribund industries in the State.

“This administration has paid off debts owed to Assets Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) by successive administration in the State in respect of the Imo Standard Shoe Industry. The sum of 1.3 billion naira was negotiated down and full and final payment made. I am hopeful that operations will commence in the industry in the next few months.

On infrastructural development, the Governor disclosed that no fewer than 90 roads have either been completed or about to be completed across the State. According to Governor Uzodimma, the infrastructural projects cut across urban and rural areas within the three senatorial zones of the state with an urban renewal program that has given Owerri the State capital a facelift.

On health, the Governor informed the people of the State of giant strides made through the provision of basic medical services in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Health sectors. He emphasized the efforts made to contain the Covid-19 pandemic in the State including the rehabilitation of 305 health centres across the State to enable Imo people live healthier lives even as he appealed to the people of the State to get vaccinated due to the dangers of the Delta and Omicron variants of the virus.

The high point of the event was the vote of confidence passed on the Governor by the stakeholders of Imo State. The motion for a vote of confidence was moved by Chief Dan Nwanyanwu, the National Chairman of Zenith Labour Party.

Chief Nwanyanwu before moving the motion for the vote of confidence said “I was unable to attend the last 4 meetings. I want to say that our state has been good since the governor came on board. The chairman said he is not a politician; I am not an APC member. I am not a PDP person. I have been in opposition since 1999 and I have never shifted, but when you see something that is good, you need not to pretend as if it's not good.

“I am known in the country because I speak the truth and I'm never afraid to say so. I want to say that just as you came in you saw Owerri, I went to Orlu and I can see that the state is working. All we have to do is to pray for those who have eyes and have refused to see.

“I have not come to Imo State for the past 5 years, but I am happy with what I am seeing. We should call our people to come home. I want to thank you for the recoveries you have made. That is the things that has attracted me the most. I have spoken about it publicly and if that is the only thing you do for Imo people, Imo people will be grateful to you because it has never been done before.

“You have rolled out the constructions that are completed and those that are ongoing. We are all from those areas. They are not voodoo projects. They exist. Those of us in opposition we see it and we should not be afraid to speak the truth.

“We as a people need to stop what we are doing; painting a bad image of our state. Why are we not speaking out? Why are we keeping quiet? I will not run away. We should not. We did so for eight years that is why things went wrong; because we kept quiet and we did nothing. We did not interrogate the man at the helm of affairs.

“But we have a governor now who is calling us from time to time to listen to him, that is what we call transparency, leadership and engagement. So as we leave here today, it behooves on us to talk about the things our governor is doing because we believe that our state should grow. On our own we must play our own part. Everything should not be left to the government.

For me, this is the midterm results of this government, even though it's not up to two years. Because you must remove nine months of COVID-19, so this government has worked for 1 year and 3 months. I think I'm satisfied and I hereby move that this house pass a vote of confidence on the Government. Following his motion, Dr. Mrs. Dorathy Nnaji, the Chairman of Imo State Chapter of National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) rose in secondment with the overwhelming support of all Stakeholders.

Among those who graced the event were Chief Eng. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former Governor Ikedi Ohakim, former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prof. George Obiozor, retired banker and member of the Imo Economic Summit Group, Dr. CNC Nwachukwu, Chief Greg Mbadiwe, Onyeka Onwenu and a host of others, all of whom commended Governor Uzodimma for an outstanding performance within a short period in office and collectively sued for peace for the government to do more.

*SUSPENSE AS IMO STATE HOLDS STAKEHOLDERS MEETING TODAY*

The popular axiom that "Government is the people as much as the people are the Government," holds true in every society and through ages.

This ideology is rooted in the very tenets of democracy and entails the involvement of the people at all times in governance vis-a-vis policy formulation, program designs, infrastructural development and progress reporting.

Drawing strength from the above, upon resumption of office, His Excellency the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma declared that his leadership and administration would be purposeful and beneficial to the vast majority of Imo people. Anchoring his governance on agelong principles of democracy, he christened his mandate "Shared Prosperity...to the people". This ideology has since come with a lot of engagement with the people in every decision-making process of governance, inclusive of measures that have led to enhanced security in Imo State. The highlight of these efforts, as the good people of Imo State have seen, is the repeated communal and nonpartisan fora that the government has organized to communicate the milestone accomplishments, challenges and progress-reports of government’s work as both representatives of the people and custodians in trust of their common patrimony.

Governor Hope Uzodimma has kept this practice of organizing Stakeholders Meeting in which critical and relevant Stakeholders drawn from all communities in Imo, gather periodically for detailed briefing on the activities and challenges to the Government. The feedback mechanism embedded in this meeting aids the Government in charting its course towards sustaining existing gains and tackling challenges to pave way for constant progress and development.

Being the 6th in its series, today's edition of the Imo State Stakeholders Meeting comes with lots of national suspense, intrigues by opposition elements and expectations by the good people of Imo State. A lot has happened in Imo State since the last Stakeholders meeting. Feelers indicate that Imo people eagerly await Government's report on her activities and her efforts in addressing prevailing challenges. Most importantly they await the revelations of the sponsors of insecurity in the State as promised by His Excellency, the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, who has stated his intention to make public the names.

As the clock ticks, approaching the time of the meeting, Imolites home and abroad have all prepared for the big gathering and account rendering by the people's Governor, His Excellency the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma - a principled leader to the core with the mandate of rehabilitating the system, and institutions of the State; reconstructing its infrastructure and recovering the misappropriated commonwealth of our people.

The Imo Stakeholders meeting is arguably the most anticipated event in Nigeria today. It holds at 12 noon Nigerian time and would be broadcast live via Channels TV and AIT. You can also follow the event through @ImoStateMedia on Facebook and Instagram.

Complements of the season.

Government of Imo State


Press Release


Plot to orchestrate arrest of Uzodimma's Security Officers fails


Plot by those believed to be fueling insecurity, particularly kidnapping, banditry, arson and cannibalism  in Imo State ahead of January 4, 2022 Imo Stakeholders meeting got to a head on Monday with false news of the alleged arrest of the security officers attached to Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Governor Uzodimma, it is believed, will  use the Stakeholders meeting to expose the identities of those behind insecurity and other forms of criminality in Imo State. This has prompted Imo citizens to become more curious to discover the identities of those undermining their peace and prosperity. Thus, the current media frenzy by both Rochas Okorocha and Uche Nwosu appears to be strengthening the notion of their culpability.


To discredit the government and undermine the peace which the Governor has achieved so far, as was evident in the large number of Imo people who came back home from around the world for Christmas and New Year festivities, the duo have resorted to publishing falsehood yet again about security officers in the State Government House.

Their claim of the arrest and detention of a certain Shaba, whom they falsely allege to be the CSO to the Imo State Governor is strange as the Governor's CSO is not known by the name of Shaba both officially and otherwise.  In addition, no security officer in the Governor's security team was either arrested or is currently unaccounted for. As such, the entire story can best be described as a poorly scripted fabrication aimed at misleading the unsuspecting public.


For the avoidance of doubt, Okorocha and Nwosu have been specifically mentioned by suspects who are in the custody of security agents, as being sponsors of kidnapping and banditry in Imo State, using their relationship with former ex-militants to perpetrate the crimes.


Rather than clear their names, they appear bent on using both overt and covert means to blackmail the Police High Command, which legitimately arrested Uche Nwosu.  They are also actively seeking to dent the image of the fine security officers attached to the Governor of Imo State.


The public must be informed that the entire report is false and a failed attempt to frustrate the Imo  Stakeholders meeting taking place on Tuesday.


The mass of Imo People, who are undoubtedly peaceful and fun loving are enjoined to discountenance the serial falsehood that continue to be churned out by the embattled duo.  The focus and direction of the Gov. Uzodimma led government, it must be emphasized, will continue to be about the wellbeing of the people of the State, no matter what it takes.



Oguwike Nwachuku

Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser to the Governor

January, 3, 2022.

HOPE UZODIMMA HOSTS IMO STAKEHOLDERS MEETING


All is set for the Imo State Stakeholders meeting scheduled to hold on Tuesday, 4th January 2022 at Sam Mbakwe Exco Chambers, Government House, Owerri as all relevant stakeholders have been invited and Imolites expectant of the outcome.

In running an all inclusive governance, His Excellency the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma had upon resumption of office, announced a routine Stakeholders Meeting with Ndi Imo across board.

The meeting which is in series presents an opportunity for the Governor of Imo State to account to Ndi Imo the activities and direction of the Government in fast-tracking development to the State and as well, a discuss on the recent events in the State.

The Governor has kept to his pledge of running an all inclusive Government with transparency to the people. The meeting usually held periodically has greatly contributed in the policies and programs of the administration as reactions form the participants are usually taken into account afterwards by the Government.

This Edition is filled with intrigues and suspense especially with the hint from His Excellency on the announcement, on that day, of the sponsors of insecurity in the State and subsequent prosecution. As preparations remain on top gear, Imolites home and abroad remain glued to the commencement of the event for revelations.

ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS (APC)

PRESS RELEASE

NEW YEAR MESSAGE

APC WILL CONTINUE TO FUNCTION AS CRITICAL PARTNER IN IMO DEVELOPMENT

...We remain committed to creating egalitarian society

The All Progressives Congress, APC, Imo State chapter ably led by Hon Macdonald K. Ebere, PhD, KSJI, with a profound sense of joy and optimism; extends her New Year greetings to all Imolites at the dawn of 2022.


It is APC’s hope that the New Year brings prosperity, peace and the spirit of goodwill as the party continues to chart a path towards growth and development. This is in keeping with the vision of the Shared Prosperity Administration of Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.


A New Year brings with it a renewed sense of optimism, vigour and hope for a brighter and greater future. The APC shares this feeling of optimism, which is anchored on the progress Imo State has made over the past two years under the visionary leadership of Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.


Our party in the New Year will continue to function as a critical partner in the development of Imo State and its people.


In this New Year, the APC remains committed to working towards ameliorating the difficulties and challenges our people face on daily basis, through provision of democracy dividends and prosperity.


The APC will continue to address all matters affecting the welfare of our members, supporters and all Imo people.


We remain faithful to the vision of creating an egalitarian society in which there is inclusive governance.


The APC is of the view that critical to the realization of the above objectives is the need to build trust at the political level and create political space for all. Confrontation and threats must give way to dialogue and the good of Imo State should remain paramount in all our political engagements and discourse.


We appreciate the sustained solidarity and support of Imo people for our government and party and look forward to more commitment to the party even as we promise Imo people will enjoy more dividends of democracy in 2022.


This is wishing everyone a happy and prosperous New Year.



Signed:

CAJETAN DUKE,
State Publicity Secretary.
Saturday, January 1, 2022.

CHIEF UCHE NWOSU FINGERED IN THE SPONSORSHIP OF INSECURITY IN IMO STATE

Chief Uche Nwosu, son in-law to the former Governor Rochas Okorocha have been fingered in the sponsorship of insecurity that has been rocking the once peaceful Imo State all in the bid to make the State ungovernable for the incumbent Governor Hope Uzodimma.

In an intelligence explicitly obtained by our News House from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), a suspect made useful confessional statements which indicated the former Governor Rochas Okorocha, Chief Uche Nwosu and one Kingsley Uju in the recruitment of ex-militants for shady business.

According to the suspect, former Governor Rochas Okorocha, Chief Uche Nwosu and Kingsley Uju approached one General Banga aka Chike and General Felix aka Sharma (both ex-militants) for recruitment, after the pancake amnesty he, Rochas, offered the Militants in exchange for arm-surrender.

The duo Generals sealed the deal with former Governor Rochas Okorocha and his son in-law, ever since then, they have been unleashing mayhem on the people of Imo State during and after the expiration of his tenure as the Executive Governor of Imo State.

Consequent upon this expository, the authority of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) had on several occasions, invited Chief Uche Nwosu for questioning, a geature he had neglected hence the manner in which the operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) effected his arrest warrant, for investigation cannot be stalled.

Various implicatory statements from the suspect, revealed the frequent funding of these criminals and their activities by the former Governor Rochas Okorocha through his son in-law, Chief Uche Nwosu, at various locations in Owerri.

Little wonder while the people of Imo State were thrown into turmoil, the Okorocha's and their dynasty enjoy affluence brewed with the commonwealth of Imo State. It is believed that his arrest would throw more light into the insecurity that had ravaged Imo State in recent time.

CHIEF UCHE NWOSU FINGERED IN THE SPONSORSHIP OF INSECURITY IN IMO STATE

Chief Uche Nwosu, son in-law to the former Governor Rochas Okorocha have been fingered in the sponsorship of insecurity that has been rocking the once peaceful Imo State all in the bid to make the State ungovernable for the incumbent Governor Hope Uzodimma.

In an intelligence explicitly obtained by our News House from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), a suspect made useful confessional statements which indicated the former Governor Rochas Okorocha, Chief Uche Nwosu and one Kingsley Uju in the recruitment of ex-militants for shady business.

According to the suspect, former Governor Rochas Okorocha, Chief Uche Nwosu and Kingsley Uju approached one General Banga aka Chike and General Felix aka Sharma (both ex-militants) for recruitment, after the pancake amnesty he, Rochas, offered the Militants in exchange for arm-surrender.

The duo Generals sealed the deal with former Governor Rochas Okorocha and his son in-law, ever since then, they have been unleashing mayhem on the people of Imo State during and after the expiration of his tenure as the Executive Governor of Imo State.

Consequent upon this expository, the authority of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) had on several occasions, invited Chief Uche Nwosu for questioning, a geature he had neglected hence the manner in which the operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) effected his arrest warrant, for investigation cannot be stalled.

Various implicatory statements from the suspect, revealed the frequent funding of these criminals and their activities by the former Governor Rochas Okorocha through his son in-law, Chief Uche Nwosu, at various locations in Owerri.

Little wonder while the people of Imo State were thrown into turmoil, the Okorocha's and their dynasty enjoy affluence brewed with the commonwealth of Imo State. It is believed that his arrest would throw more light into the insecurity that had ravaged Imo State in recent time.

What Emeka Ihedioha said about Rochas!!

Culled from Punch.ng of September 7, 2019.

“It is important to recall that we took over the reins of government without even a handover report. A handover report, traditionally, is the least responsibility an outgoing administration owes an incoming one. Unfortunately, this was not done.

“We discovered upon inception that the inability to provide the necessary documentation was due to a total abuse and neglect of laid down procedures of good governance. The most shocking were the litany of ‘garnishee absolute orders’ amounting to over N30bn, in addition to six years’ unpaid pension, as well as salary arrears.

“Projects were poorly conceived, shabbily executed or hastily abandoned. We have even found some of them very hazardous to human safety.

“It is worthy of note that with our wage bill, at an average of N2.5bn per month, almost N1b monthly pension bill and in an atmosphere of very low IGR, leaves very little for development

This is compounded by the almost N1bn statutory deduction on our FAAC, mainly for the repayment of the N26.8bn bailout funds given to the last administration by the FG.”

“As a government that espouses the rule of law, we will never endorse any manifestation of arbitrary powers. As a result, we have set up two judicial panels of inquiry – the Judicial Panel of Inquiry into Land Allocation from 2005 to 2019 – and the Judicial Panel of Inquiry into the Award of Contracts from 2005 to 2019.

“We have also set up an inquiry into the management of local government finances from 2011 to 2019. These panels are made up of very credible Imo citizens with impeccable track records and we are certain they will give Imo people justice.”

- Can a man who is genuinely interested in the development and progress of Imo State be found in an alliance with a man of obvious questionable past??

When the gathering is not of the Lord, it shall surely scattered!!

May Imo prevail.

- Cajetan Duke

*FERMA BAGS AWARD OF "BEST FEDERAL AGENCY IN IMO FOR THE YEAR 2021."*


The Nigerian Youth Congress which is the Apex youth body of the of the federal government coordinated from the office of the Special Adviser to the President on Youth and Students Affairs.

The Imo State chapter of the Nigerian Youth Congress in her annual merit award declared FERMA the winner of the BEST FEDERAL AGENCY/ PARASTATAL beating NDE and NDLEA with a total of 53 votes out of 103 votes.

The Imo State Chapter of NYC speaking through the state chairman Barr. Ihejirika Emeka Eunan said that FERMA this year has been outstanding in the discharge of her duties following some landmark achievements which included the construction of bridge that link Imo State and Anambra State.

He went further to extol the leadership qualities of the Federal Engineer incharge of Imo State Field Office of FERMA, Sir. Engr Chukwuemeka Maduagwu in delivering a people oriented leadership that helped the agency FERMA to be in tune with the people of Imo State.


The Award will be officially presented on the 24th of December, 2021, at the FERMA office Premises.

OCDA EMBARKS ON OPERATION ZERO SHANTIES IN OWERRI.

Imo State government through one of her agencies Owerri Capital Development Authority, OCDA, launched "Operation reclaim the streets of Owerri Capital Territory from shanties", on Tuesday.

Leading his team on a long campaign road walk, the Special Adviser and General Manager of the agency, Engr Francis Chukwu, visited major streets of the city, they include; Hospital junction Ph road, World bank roundabout,Dream land junction,Control Post junction,Douglas, Wetheral road, Emmanuel College junction,Naze number one bus stop,Imsu junction and Akwakuma junction.

He appealed to occupants of Shanties and street traders to relocate to designated approved markets by the State government on or before 10th January, 2022, while opining that failure to do this will result to the agency taking drastic measures in restoring sanity on the streets.

Engr. Chukwu noted that his OCDA led Administration is one that operates with a human face, adding that the awareness campaign has become necessary in order to sensitize people on the inherent dangers of Street Trading and other related hazards such as accidents, loss of lives and Properties as well as road congestion resulting to traffic gridlock among others.

While describing Gov. Hope Uzodimma as a due process and compassionate leader, he implored them to cooperate with the Shared Prosperity Government saying that the Governor is passionate about the safety, welfare and wellbeing of Imolites hence the need for all to join hands to safeguard lives and Properties.

#OCDAMEDIAUNIT

Love is the best

OCDA GM INAUGURATES STATUTORY AGENTS, CALLS FOR PUBLIC TOLERANCE.

...AS RENOWED PROFESSORS LECTURE THEM ON ETHICS

The Special Adviser to the Governor and General Manager of Owerri Capital Development Authority, OCDA, Engr. Francis Chukwu, on Wednesday inaugurated newly appointed Revenue Collection Agents, Debt Recovery and Special Taskforce Agents, who performed creditably during an organised interview exercise by the agency recently.

In his address at the event which held at the OCDA chapel, Engr. Francis Chukwu maintained that their appointment was a meritorious one in view of the fact of the transparent interview conducted for them, which he said is in line of following due process in sanitizing the system.

The OCDA helmsman who maintained that their appointment is a call to serve, opined that certain changes have been made in the mode of operation for the agents as this he said is in conformity with the sacrosanct mandate of ensuring sanity and restoration of confidence of the general public towards the state government agency. Some of the changes include; No trespassing into another agents zone as this will attract a fine, also that no RCA and Debt Recovery agent is allowed to impound any property from a construction site because of Site Analysis Report and letter of structural fitness.

Chukwu charged the agents to discharged their duties with highest level of discipline, professionalism, civility and integrity, adding that they should resist every form of compromise, in addition, that they should always inform and explain to developers the reason for coming to seal their site when need arises.

According to him, OCDA is poised to assisting Gov. Hope Uzodimma realise his administration developmental agenda which is anchored on the 3R mantra of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Recovery, therefore their actions must align to the zero tolerance to corruption, illegality and lack of due process.

In their separate lectures at the event two renowned academicians Prof. Benedict Ozurumba, and Prof. Thaddeus Ebiringa from FUTO, urged the agents to be the image of OCDA by being accountable and transparent in conduct.

Guest at the event include, Hon. Ugochukwu Nzekwe, SA to Governor on Public Utility, Prince Eze Ugochukwu,(Public Enlightenment), Sir. Modestus Nwamkpa, among others. While highlight of event was the presentation of engagement letters to the Appointees.

The Senate, on Wednesday, set in motion steps to make life more tolerable for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the country.

Following the submission of the senator, representing Imo North, Sir Frank IIbezim, the Senate moved to ensure that the IDPs are not only protected but also rehabilitated and reintegrated into the society.



The Senate by a Bill on the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons In Africa (Domestication And Enforcement) Bill, 2021), noted that domesticating the Kampala Convention will pave way for a paradigm shift from relief and humanitarian assistance to IDPs which appears to be the focus of most IDP intervention in Nigeria, to other germane issues pertaining to IDPs nationwide.”

Ibezim, sponsor of the bill, had argued that “the latter aspects of IDP management are not adequately addressed under existing legal and institutional framework as a result of the overlap of statutory responsibilities or poor delineation of mandates.

Consequently, he reasoned, several IDPs are abandoned to their fate after the initial relief phase or even left without assistance at all.

The senator noted that domesticating the provisions of the Kampala Convention signed by the Federal Government in October 2009, and ratified in April 2012, will comply with “the requirements of Section 12 of the 1999 Constitution, which requires that treaties signed between Nigeria and other countries or international bodies should first be domesticated by an Act of the National Assembly with further ratification by a majority of the Houses of Assembly in the federation.”

He called for the provision of education opportunities for the IDPs, “as an empowerment right, education is the primary vehicle by which economically and socially marginalised adults and children can lift themselves out of poverty and obtain the means to participate fully in their communities. We are also aware that people uprooted from their homes are even more vulnerable if they cannot read and write.”



The senator also charged government to create a new framework to adequately monitor the implementation of the Kampala Convention and future policies on IDPs in the country.

According to him: intervention agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, should continue to “provide humanitarian assistance to natural/man-made disasters as provided in the enabling Act, the National Commission for Refugees (NCR) will be concentrating on the refugee crisis.

GOVERNMENT OF IMO STATE OF NIGERIA

OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY & COMMISSIONER FOR JUSTICE

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE

PRESS RELEASE

THE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF IMO STATE IS NOT INVOLVED IN ANY CHILD TRAFFICKING MATTER

The attention of the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Imo State has been drawn to the malicious, procured and orchestrated news item being circulated by media outfits suggesting that the Honourable Attorney General of Imo State is subverting Justice in a case of child trafficking for which he has been summoned by a Magistrate Court for explanation. We are also aware that this is a fall out of a Press Conference granted by one Igboayaka O. Igboayaka of the acclaimed Ohaneze Youth Council, who made the erroneous and unfounded allegations against the Chief Law officer of Imo State.

While the Attorney General is not surprised over the continued evil orchestration against his person by opposition elements with parochial intent to serve, he is however surprised that responsible media establishments could go to town with such false and malicious news without first seeking clarification from the office of the Attorney General. It is important to note that the office of the Attorney General is vested with the full constitutional powers of prosecution in the State with the right to determine who to prosecute, when to prosecute and where to prosecute. He also has the unquestionable right to review all cases pending in court to determine whether to continue the prosecution or to withdraw same. The present Attorney General of Imo State is a seasoned legal practitioner who will not be taught how to exercise his powers by merchants of preconceived intentions. Every citizen of Imo State standing trial in our courts is presumed innocent until proven guilty and the instruments of the state legal processes will not lend itself into any attempt to find any person guilty before the end of his or her trial. The office of the Honourable Attorney General cannot also be blackmailed or hastened into making a wrong decision in any matter as it's decisions are usually made after seriously thought-out legal opinion by the State Legal officers.

Categorically, the office of the Imo Attorney General holds as follows:

1. That it has recalled from the courts, the case files in the following charges:

(a). OW/505C/2021 - Cop. Vs. Ohanyere Lilian & Anor.

(b). OW/562/2021 - Cop. Vs. Anayo Don & Anor.

(c). OW/54C/2021 - Cop. Vs. Ebuzoaju

2. That the office of the Director of Public Prosecution will review the case files and present the Attorney General with appropriate legal opinions on the cases.

3. That presently, the Attorney General has not ruled out the possibility of sending the casefiles back to the Police for proper investigation in view of the petitions received from the suspects on the nature of special interest interference in the investigation into the matter by the former SARS Commander.

4. That further investigations on the matter may lead to the conduct of a DNA test if found necessary.

Furthermore, it is instructive to mention that the Honourable Attorney General of Imo State was not summoned by any Magistrate to appear before her for any explanation as regards the case of child trafficking. Rather, the Court invited the office of the Attorney General as represented by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to clarify the Court with the decision whether to continue the case at the Magistrate Court or arraign the suspects on information before the High Court in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Law of Imo State.

This clarification has become necessary because of the wrong impression conveyed by the malicious and mischievous presentation of the reports by some media and Internet news platforms.

The Attorney General of Imo State will continue to strive for a better Imo State where the rule of law reigns Supreme. And we seize this medium to plead with mischief makers to henceforth, stop these unwarranted attacks on the office and person of the Attorney General of Imo State.

Thank you and God bless you all.

I. A Ositadimma
Special Adviser, Media.
03 December, 2021

The Bill for an Act to make provision for the Establishment of federal college of Horticulture in Okigwe, Imo State passes second reading.

The Bill is sponsored by Hon Princess Miriam Onuoha ( HPMO) our member representing Isiala Mbano/ Onuimo / Okigwe Federal Constituency.
When passed, this Bill will contribute to the socio - Economic advancement and overall Infrastructural development of the constituency, Imo state and the entire country.

It is on record that the only Federal College of Horticulture in Nigeria is in DadinKowa, Gombe state.

INVESTIGATE ROCHAS OKOROCHA: GROUP CALL ON IGP


The peaceful atmospher in Imo state and the South East of Nigeria was unbalanced shortly after the Imo State Government activated the recovery of illegally acquired and forcefully grabbed properties of the State and private citizens under the administration of former Governor Rochas Okorocha.

The Senator has been fingered as a sponsor of the insecurity in Imo State and must be investigated to ascertain the level of his complicity and subsequent prosecution. The Spokesperson of the Imo Patriot, Hon. Ibeneme Humphrey made the call in reaction to the recent expository on Okorocha's sponsorship of insecurity in the State.

Recall that during one of the major recoveries - the Royal Spring Palm Estate which Okorocha acquired under the wife's name, Rochas committed crime of breaking the Government's seal and forcefully gaining entrance into a Government property with his thugs in Police Uniform. The failed gangsterism approach inspired his gang-up in attacking the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Imo State Command and the Nigeria Correctional Facility, Owerri thereby breaking out criminal inmates.

Ever since then, the peaceful Imo State has experienced high level of attacks by these armed men who were operating from an axis in Orji and believed to have been camped in the Residence of Senator Rochas Okorocha. Under the guise of unknown gunmen, these agents recruited by Rochas Okorocha as Imo Security Networks (ISN) during his tenure as Imo State Governor has now metamorphosed into the present day Eastern Security Network (ESN).

So pertinent, is the whereabouts of the 3,338 12 rounds English Pump Action procured by the former Governor Rochas Okorocha for the operation of his Imo Security Network (ISN) now Eastern Security Network (ESN). The membership and leadership of the dreaded Unknown Gunmen constitutes of Okorocha's allies and associates with one Dragon, a former gateman to Rochas Okorocha, as a commander of the group. He died during a cross fire with the security agencies while attempting to attack the State CID.

Hon. Ibeneme added that Okorocha cannot was his hands off the insecurity in Imo state and it is on this note that we call on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to swing into action and cause an immediate investigation of former Governor Rochas Okorocha.

FG ORDERS IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF THE INAUGURATION OF NNPC BOARD CHAIRMAN SEN. IFEANYI ARARUME

- FORMER PRESIDENT OBASANJO FINGERED AS RIFT BETWEEN THE TWO DEEPENS


Sen. Ifeanyi Ararume seems not to be on the good side of fate despite how hard luck tries to smile at him. A look at his political journey reveals that it hasn’t been rosy for him, hence, the jumping from one party to another yet it seems like the popular saying that what causes the pungent smell of the shrew(Nkapi/Nkakwu) is from its body.

The recent appointment of Sen. Ifeanyi Ararume as the Chairman NNPC Board came as a surprise to many and to others a political compensation but whatever it may be, all seems not to be sitting well with Sen. Ararume and the Presidency.

President Buhari has ordered the suspension of the inauguration of the new NNPC board indefinitely of which Sen. Ararume is the Chairman which is scheduled for today 24th November. According to inside source from the Aso Villa, it seems that the rift between Sen. Ararume and Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has continued to affect the political advancement of Sen. Ararume.

According to the source who pleased anonymity, former President Obasanjo has been fingered over the indefinite suspension of the inauguration as several calls was placed by him to the President and given the personality of Obasanjo, it wouldn’t be hard for Mr. President to give in to his request.

Although it may not be clear if there is a new issue between Sen. Ararume and former President Obasanjo but given to the stand of the former on Sen. Ararume’s political progress, it is obvious he can go the extra mile to kill the remaining political life of Sen. Ararume.

You may recall that the former President Obasanjo had one time ago declared that Sen. Ifeanyi Ararume was not worthy to ever become the Governor of Imo State due to his shady antecedents especially during his time at the National Assembly and vowed to stop him from advancing politically.

While the camp of Sen. Ararume is yet to react on this new development, it has become clear that he cannot continue to fight the man that made him and therefore should swallow his pride and seek for his forgiveness and reconciliation as things might change politically for him since he is not the first and neither the last that will embrace peace with their political masters to attain the position they are today.

IMO ATTACKS: GROUP FAULTS IMO PDP

- Accuses The Party For Sponsoring Insecurity Ahead Of 2024 Guber Election


Democracy Advocacy Forum(DAF) has joined the call to sue for peace in Imo State as well as warn the Imo PDP to steer clear of making unguarded utterances that the jeopardized the peace of the state and over heat the polity ahead of 2024 gubernatorial election in the state.

It has become clear to us that the Imo PDP and its desperate politician have started making moves to push their inordinate ambition ahead of 2024 guber election in the state thereby imploring all devices including sponsoring several attacks to discredit the efforts of the state government and force Imolites to look towards the way of the party for rescue.

We have noticed that since the landmark judgement that dislodged the Imo PDP from the seat of power, they have continued to exhibit traits of bitterness through name calling, propaganda, campaigns of calumny, etc. They have gone as far as supporting and inciting violence in different areas of the state through the unknown gunmen and these they have been doing through the collaborative efforts of some displaced politicians in the state for their selfish interest.

The Egbu declaration is another obvious desperate move to get to power by the PDP even when the electoral umpire is yet to lift ban on political activities for 2024. Hiding under the guise of calling for equity, Imo PDP is already preparing grounds to arm to the teeth several groups and individuals to wreck havoc in all the zones of the state in a make-believe move for the agitation of equity in the state.

Paragraphs 14-18 of the Press release signed by one Ikenna Onuoha who posed as the SA media to Senator Samuel Anyanwu who is the National Secretary of PDP confirms our fears and the plan of Imo PDP to force Imolites to look their way since Imolites have rejected PDP and their antics.

Democracy Advocacy Forum(DAF) therefore call on Imolites to be on the know of the plans of Imo PDP to unleash terror in the state and appeal to the state government to beef up security in all the parts of the state as well as ensure that politicians found encouraging or sponsoring any act of terrorism in the state are dealt with in accordance with the law.

GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA TRANSMITS COMMISSIONERS NOMINEES LIST TO IMO STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY.


His Excellency, the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has transmitted to the Imo State House of Assembly (IMHA), the list of Commissioners Nominee for screening and consideration, which is expected to be expedited.

The names that made it to the list are as listed below.

1. PROF. DURU EMMANUEL JOSEPH CHUKWUMA

2. DR. PROSPER OHAYAGHA SUCCESS OBINNA CHINONS0

3. PROF. IFUNANYA OKORODUDU

4. PROF. C.O. NWOSU

5. MR. KEZIECHI OGAZIECHI

6. BARR. REX ANUNOBI

7. LADY LOVE INEH

8. MRS. RUBBY EMELE

9. SIMON EBEGBULEM

10. MR. ANUKWUEM OKECHUKWU CHUKWUNYERE

11. CHIEF FORD OZURUMBA

12. HON. STANLEY OBIDIEGGWU

13. RT. HON. GOODLUCK NANA OPIA

14. MRS. ANN DOZIE

15. PROF. KENNETH AMAESHI (CHIEF ECONOMIC ADVISER)

16. HAUIA RABBI IBRAHIM

17. DR. ELIAS EMEDOM

*HON PRINCESS MIRIAM ONUOHA BILL FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF FEDERAL COLLEGE OF NURSING, MIDWIFERY AND HEALTH SCIENCES IN ISIALA MBANO PASSES SECOND READING.*

©️by Ukaigwe Chukwuemeka. Abuja.

The honorable member representing Onuimo, Isiala Mbano and Okigwe (Okigwe North) Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Princess Miriam Onuoha bill for the establishment of federal college of Nursing, Midwifery and Health sciences in Isiala Mbano passes second reading.

The bill when passed, will bring massive human capacity, Economic and infrastructural Development to Okigwe North in particular and imo state at large.

When besieged by the press after the house plenary for briefing, the Hon.member reiterated that her desire to see to fruition of the bill, is to bridge the gap caused by lack of professional health care personnel, who can render quality services in different public medical facilities located in Imo State and it's environs.

CHANGE OF BATON @ OCDA: ENGR. FRANCIS CHUKWU ASSUMES DUTY AS NEW SPECIAL ADVISER/GENERAL MANAGER, OCDA.

By Comrade Eberechukwu Okechukwu

The New General Manager of Owerri Capital Development Authority OCDA Hon. Engr. Francis Chukwu has assumed duty at the Organization as he was handed over by the immediate past General Manager Engr. Innocent Ikpamezie earlier today.

Receiving the hand over note from Engr Ikpamezie Hon. Engr Francis Chukwu expressed his gratitude to the Governor His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzondimma for giving him the opportunity to serve in the prestigious position.

Hon. Engr. Chukwu commended Engr. Ikpamezie for his achievements at the Organization promising to consolidate on the achievements on ground. He thanked the immediate past General Manager for the smooth transition.

The new General Manager of OCDA pledged that he will run an open door policy that will be anchored on Transparency, Accountability, dilligence and honesty amongst others, that will go along way towards actualizing the 3R Agenda of the Governor His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzondimma

Addressing the OCDA staff after the brief formal handover at the General Manager's Office, Engr. Innocent Ikpamezie expressed his gratitude to them for the support and cooperation he received while overseeing the affairs of the Organization and charged them to accord same to the new General Manager Hon. Engr Francis Chukwu.

The change of baton at OCDA followed approval of the appointment of Hon. Engr Francis Chukwu as the Special Adviser/General Manager of OCDA by the Governor Senator Hope Uzondimma.