spyder880:
Some call it blocks while others call it 'sandcrete', this is an important building material which we get by mixing powdered cement, sharp sand and water in a ratio made to suit the job it was produced for. You might wonder why I used the phrase 'in a ratio made to suit the job it was produced for'? Okay,  there are many uses for blocks apart from using it to raise the walls in homes and fences. Blocks could be used for a variety of works, including

1. Walling of a house
2. Making a fence
3. Building a generator house or any other house that have vibrating machines inside it.
4. Toilet pits or soak away tanks.

Because of the various uses for blocks, the mixing ratio cannot be the same, we tend to reduce the ratio of sand to a bag of cement if we want a more solid mix or a block product which can do more than covering the walls in a house. I will like to mention here that most houses, especially those built with reinforced concrete columns and metal rods, blocks don't bear any loads, this is why you see houses built without blocks at first, the builder will first raise the columns and deck the first floor, then continue with another set of columns which will bear the next floor, and up and up we go.
There are many different types of blocks in modern building, these include

1. 9" hollow blocks
2. 6" hollow blocks
3. 6" solid blocks
4. 5" solid blocks

These blocks could be used according to the specifications of the building plan you are using. Most houses with more than one floors uses the 9" blocks on the ground floor and maybe the next few floors, but as a house rises in height, it is recommended that the weight of the blocks on the top floors be reduced, ie. If you use 9" blocks to do a ground floor, use 6" to do the top floors to ease the weight on the columns, beams and foundation.

Many more things to say about blocks, let me rest and come back to the topic later.

How many 6'' solid blocks can a Five bedroom flat take?

temitope27:
Dr. princess rabi Ibrahim ?

Yes from Oguta Lga

Bonesbreaker:
Lol lets be watching to win IMO state you go need Jesus and Mary help plus Muhammad too join am with devil

Most people said he can never be Governor in 2019 but today God rewrite the story. I am not worried since you are not God.

The Governor of State, His Excellency, Sen. Hope Uzodimma has approved a reshuffle of the State Executive Council with immediate effect.

In a press release, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba said the list of commissioners and their portfolios as approved by the Governor is as follows.


#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

WHY SEN OSITA IZUNASO IS BEST SUITED FOR ORLU SENATE.

By Nwamkpa Modestus

Imo West (Orlu Zone) will on February 25, next year elect somebody that will stand in for them by way of representation at the senate. Actually, anybody can be elected to represent a people but it is a different kattle of fish when a people want a representative that is classical and top notch. And this is where Sen Osita Izunaso comes in. Orlu zone, is the highest zone in Imo, South East and among the biggest in the country. What USA is to the world, is what Orlu zone is to Imo state and South East. That is the zone with the highest number of LGAs in the entire South East geo political zone. The zone cannot afford to have anyhow person to represent her at the senate because all eyes are the zone.

Other zones are looking up to Orlu zone for direction and to show a good example. So this is where a man in the personage and gab of Sen. Osita Izunaso come in. This time is critical and the zone needs a notable voice and a visible face nationally as a senator. Orlu zone needs somebody who does not need introduction at the senate. Orlu zone requires to send somebody who really understands the business and not a person who will learn on the job. The zone cannot, under whatever petty political gerrymandering affords to disappoint the rest of the zones in Imo state and South East.

In 2023, other zones will be sending their first class brains for the competition and Orlu zone must fellow suit. The best striker to Send for the political premiership in Abuja is Sen Izunaso. It is not for nothing that he is the only person with the richest resume. He was a former House of Rep member, a former Senator, a former and pioneer National Organizing Secretary of APC and a current Chairman of a federal Board among other National and state positions held. He is going to the senate next year with a rich experience. In all of these positions, Sen Izunaso showed class and competence. He distinguished himself and is known nationally.

The zone cannot look at somebody like Sen Izunaso who is a National Honours recipient; somebody with national clout and settle for less a personality. Senate is a place for big 'boys' where you must be profiled before you are placed. And where you are placed will determine to a large extent where your zone will be placed in terms of sharing the booty. That is why it is very important to be careful who to send for the job.

Granted, when preferable is not available, available can become preferable but in this case preferable is available and the preferable is Sen Izunaso OFR. You cannot settle for good when best is available. The truth is that Sen Izunaso towers over and above all his co contestants. I say this with every sense of responsibility.

Above all, being in the same political party at the centre and at the state is a huge advantage particularly in terms of attracting dividends of democracy to your people. The way our democracy is practiced here, members of the ruling party at the legislative arm get certain favours than none members of the ruling party. So the zone must leverage on this and elect Sen Izunaso next year. There is huge gain in sending him to the senate. I think he is going to a familiar terrain and not sending somebody who will need to be taken around for others to know him.

IMO PROFESSIONALS NETWORK WANTS IHEDIOHA TO VOLUNTARILY TURN HIMSELF TO SECURITY FOR INVESTIGATION OVER CRIMINAL TENDENCIES

Imo Professionals Network has urged the former Deputy Speaker House of representatives Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha to voluntarily turn himself to security agencies for investigations over what they described as 'criminal tendencies'.

The body made up of professionals bodies based in Imo State in a statement signed by their Secretary Engr. Emmanuel Uwalaeke stated that the former illegal governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha should repose himself of criminal tendencies and not take Imo people for granted.

They are reacting on the heels of the trending leaked call conversation where Ihedioha owned up to comments that suggest him to be behind the insecurity in the state.

Their statement read in parts: "We have seen the reply of Chief Emeka ihedioha towards the leaked phone conversation and his letter to the attorney general of the federation and minister of justice Mr. ABUBAKAR MALAMI (SAN). It is quite laughable the position of chief Emeka Ihedioha to critical issues that suggest complicit actions in insecurity.

"Recall that the apex court in its judgement stated that the concurrent judgments of the
lower court erred in law when it excluded votes totalling 213,295 from 388 poling units
from the total scores at the election.
According to the apex court, Ihedioha was returned as Governor of Imo State based on
wrong computation of the election results in the state.

"The supreme court consequently set aside the decision Court of Appeal which upheld the
election of Emeka Ihedioha on the grounds that he did not win majority of the votes cast
drina the March 9 governorship election.
In addition, the court held that the excluded votes from the 388 polling units be ascribed
to the appellants.

"Consequently the apex court ordered the lIndependent National Electoral Commission to
withdraw the Certificate of Return issued to Ihedioha and issued a fresh Certificate of
Return to candidate of the APC on grounds that he Won majority of lawtul votes cast at
the election.

"It should not be because chief Emkea ihedioha exploited the relationship with the late
Prof. Francis Otonta who was the Vice Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of
Agriculture, Umudike at the time to fraudulently declare him the winner of the 2019
ections.

"Chief Emeka Ihedioha did not score up to 25% up 18 LGAs of the State as required by
the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which requires a governorship
candidate to win 25% of votes in two thirds of his or her State, apart from winning the
highest number of votes, before he or she can be returned, elected Despitee the
knowledge of this the pdp candidate for 2019 elections was declared by INEG.

"The character of the former deputy speaker has been under scrutiny from the illegal
declaration ot the 2019 guber elections, the 19.8billion financial misconduct of which he
brought a suit to stop his probe and now the leaked phone conversation that showcases
the hatchet plan by chief Emeka ihedioha and his cronies to collaborate to make the state
plunge into chaos, insecurity and banditry that sought to set the state back.

"Imo Professionals Network (1PN) is a collaborative space for Nigerians across various fields of professional endeavor from imo state. This NetworK actively engages in
projecting positive narratives about Imo and Nigeria, fostering social integralion, and
harnessing the intellectual prowess as well as business acumen ot ndi lmo, with a view to
strengthen their impact both at home and abroad.

"To this end, IMO PROFESSIONALS NETWORK , being laW-abiding citizens of Nigeria,
has calls on security bodies to ensure that Chief Emeka Ihedioha be investigated to
ensure that those affected by the show of political bigotry be prosecuted for it.
We urge relevant bodies that prompt action will seek to protect the polity and not affect
the integrity of our democracy and will also not lead to any breach of law and order."

IMO MARKETERS AND TRADERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION

-RT HON EMEKA IHEDIOHA'S ACTION HAS CAUSED HARDSHIP FOR IMO TRADERS AND MARKETERS

The association noted with deep regret the leaked telephone conversation of the former Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha where he, in an unwholesome manner was govern for peace to reign," asserting that peace can only be restored if the current administration of Sen. Hope Uzodimma steps down.

Recent developments with severe economic consequences have however prompted us to address key issues that portend a grave danger for the ease of doing business as well as the practice of marketing in Imo State. That by the leaked phone conversation of Emeka Ihedioha he has pledged to render Imo State ungovernable for Gov. Hope Uzodimma this has therefore, facilitated grave economic consequences for marketers and traders in the State especially with "the Monday "sit at home".

Recall that countless marketers and traders have been harassed, beaten and lost their lives for simply making business transactions on Mondays.

We note that IMO MARKETERS AND TRADERS WELFARE ASSOCIATION (IMTWA) has worked closely with the Government through the years, collaborating in various capacities, to support policy implementation, towards the growth and advancement of the State. That Imo marketers and traders have suffered untold hardship as a result of the selfish desperation for political benefits of Emeka Ihedioha who has colluded with non state actors to deny Imo traders the peace for ease of doing business and transporting safely themselves as well as their goods and services. As a body which represents a critical sector of the State we call on the State Government and Nigerian police to investigate properly the former speaker chief Emeka Ihedioha on being

associated with insecurity that has demoralized businesses and livelihood in the state.

We would want to reiterate that economic growth is better served in an atmosphere of collaboration, mutual respect, and trust. We therefore, enjoin the State Government and other relevant bodies to take action and protect Imo marketers and traders from untold hardship.

SIGNED:

CHAIRMAN
CHIEF. EMMANUEL KALU

SECRETARY
MRS. MARGARET UZOMBA

YOUTHS AND STUDENTS COMMUNITY CELEBRATES MR. ELOCHUKWU KINGSLEY ADUMEKWE ON THE OCCASION OF HIS BIRTHDAY, AS HE RECEIVES MULTIPLE AWARDS




The leadership and entire stakeholders of the students community in Imo State under the aegis of Imo Comrade Community and The Leadership and Members of Imo Youth Parliament has poured in highfalutin encomiums on Mr. Elochukwu Kingsley Adumekwe as he celebrates his birthday today, 16th of October.

These organisation representing the entire gamut of the youths and students community in Imo State have described Mr. Elochukwu as an Imolite with a large heart whose philanthropic gestures are not just for public stunts and accolades but are directed to positively impact on the lives of people especially young people from Imo State.

Mr. Elochukwu Kingsley whose humble background can be traced to days when he was alongside his late father, managing the father's business in owerri before calving a niche for himself in the entertainment industry as producer before he left the shores of Nigeria to South America where he obtained his first degree and later became a Manager and Producer in the global entertainment industry with his global brand LaPinky Productions.

Mr. Elochukwu Kingsley is also a major player in the interiors and design industry where he is the Chairman and Chief Executive of Aezkings Nigeria Limited.

Mr. Elochukwu is a lover of the igbo culture as he has over the years sponsored several igbo socio cultural events in Imo State especially in his homestead Umuago Esimoma in Ideato South Local Government Area.

Mr. Elochukwu Adumekwe's love for humanity is beyond the ordinary as he is responsible for the survival of several families through his philanthropic gestures. He has single handedly established both in Nigeria and outside Nigeria over a hundred youths who are now big boys in their on right. He has trained over 50 youths in various tertiary institution through his scholarship schemes. Five youths from Imo State were sent oversees for studies by Mr Elochukwu just this year alone.

Mr. Elochukwu is a single father with a loving daughter hence his fatherly heart towards the plight of humanity. He believes in the saying " each one needs one" which underlies his life philosophy that everyone must endeavour to help each other if success must be achieved.

Hence, the leadership of Imo Comrade Community and the Imo Youth Parliaments have conferred on him two different awards of note on his birthday 16th of October.


Whereas the Imo Youth Parliament has conferred on him the prestigious honorary member of the Parliament award also known as the Partner of the Parliament award, The Imo Comrade Community conferred on him the award of Leadership and Entrepreneurship Excellence.


These two awards conferred on Mr. Elochukwu Kingsley Adumekwe aka LaPinky is a testament of his integrity, humility and commitment to human and community development.




Unegbu, Victor-Wallace.

Personal Assistant

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

Nwokomaizuchi:
Details have emerged on how powerful political players led by the late Abba Kyari, then Chief of Staff to President Buhari connived with the INEC Chairman, Prof Yakubu Mahmood, National Security Adviser, Gen. Babagana Monguno; then Interior Minister, Gen. Abdulrahman Dambauzza, South East Businessmen Tony Chukwu and Emeka Offor to stop Uche Nwosu from emerging as Imo Governor so as to whittle the home support base of former Governor Rochas Okorocha who has the brightest chance for the Presidency in 2023 from the south east region given his image as a unifier with wide acceptance in the north and other parts of country, his wealth creating credentials and charitable heart.

Excerpts from "Second Chance" a book written by Barr. Chief Willie Amadi, a frontline Imo politician stated that the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in Imo State and its candidate in the 2019 governorship election, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha were fraudulently declared winners of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The book reads in part with Willie Amadi, the author narrating:

“While the collation of votes was going on in the early hours of March 10, 2019, insider information from INEC showed a likelihood of a run-off between Nwosu and Ihedioha. I reached out to Chief Tony Chukwu whom I knew had access to the Presidential Villa, Abuja. As collation entered into a critical and determining stage, I drove to his residence at Civic Centre. I met him with Chief Longers Anyanwu sitting alone in his expansive parlour.

"I intimated them with the feelers I was getting from INEC and demanded to know from him, who, between Nwosu and Ihedioha, we should support. He replied angrily that Nwosu was a no-go area …. He explained that he was not ready to help sentencing Imolites to another gruesome eight years since he was certain that Nwosu was going to be a surrogate governor to his father-in-law, the outgoing governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha.

"On Ihedioha, he had mixed feelings based on the latter’s disrespect to him and an allegation that Ihedioha had told some powerful people in the Presidency that he, Chukwu, voted for Atiku Abubakar rather than Buhari the previous week. It took me close to forty minutes to placate him with an appeal that he should forgive Ihedioha since time was of essence. Longers intervened and spoke in a similar vein, pleading with Tony to help in delivering Ihedioha"

"Before going to Tony’s place, I had called Ihedioha to find out how he was faring and whether reports from his election control room was favourable. Typical of Ihedioha, he confessed that he was having problems with the issue of spread but that he was hoping that the six remaining local government areas would sway in his favour; a hope that was eventually dashed "

"While Tony was still trying to make up his mind, Chief Anyanwu took a step further by putting a call across to Chief Emeka Offor, a well known and influential business man from Anambra state and solicited for his intervention. Not too long after, Chief Offor called Tony and spoke with him. After their conversation, Tony received calls from Governors of Ebonyi and Abia states … "

"When I realized that Chief Chukwu had been captured emotionally, I conspired with Longers to take him to Senator Hope Uzodimma … We returned to Tony Chukwu’s house and once there, I called Ihedioha to alert him that action would soon commence"

"As soon as we got back to his house, Chief Chukwu called Mallam Abba Kyari, the late Chief of Staff to President Buhari; the Minister of Interior, Major General Dambauzzau the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami as well as the National Security Adviser, Major-General Monguno. According to him, they all agreed with him that Okorocha’s candidate, Nwosu, was not favoured by the new power configuration for 2023"

"When it appeared that our efforts were beginning to yield fruits – in fact 70 per cent successful – with directives communicated to the INEC Chairman from the appropriate quarters, I suggested to Tony to invite Ihedioha and Jones Onyereri for the final capture and possession. While the two were in Tony’s house, the result was announced and Ihedioha was declared winner. An obviously dazed Ihedioha turned to Tony and asked: “What is the Source of Your Power? Tony brought out his Rosary, waved it before him.”.

This is how Ihedioha was unconstitutionally, illegally and illegitimately declared winner of the 2019 guber election without meeting the constitutionally stipulated condition of winning 25%of votes cast in 2/3 of the total number of local government areas in the state.

What Barr. Chief Willie Amadi directly said in his book by implication is that PDP and Ihedioha didn't win the 2019 governorship election in Imo State and that Uche Nwosu was prevented from getting into a run off that he would have won given his hold, lead in 12 local government areas during the election and state wide popularity/acceptance.

It was the thinking of the plotters who had other motives that an Uche Nwosu as Governor will galvanise a strong home base support in Okorocha's arsenal for 2023 Presidency. However there are strong sentiments in the country for political parties to zone the Presidency to the south east to give them a sense of belonging and also given Okorocha's antecedents, he remains the only formidable candidate to be trusted from the south east with the unity of the country.

Analysts are of the opinion that these developments are pointers to the speculations that Dr Andy Uba, the APC candidate in the just concluded Governorship election in Anambra state is cooking up a plot with some influential individuals in the corridors of power in Abuja and a South East Governor to wrestle power from Prof Chukwuma Soludo, the Governor-elect. Some sources point to a repeat of tendering of unknown polling booth results as was the case in the 2019 Imo Governorship elections by the then APC candidate who eventually made it it to the Government House through the machinations of INEC and the Supreme court.

Credible sources said Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and his camp have already put in some formidable measures to forestall such perceived plans.

This is Complete Trash for Ndị Imo State stood against Familiocracy of Rochas Okorocha not for anything but to prove to Rochas that he is not God.

GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA CONDOLES WITH THE FAMILY OF LATE COL. (DR.) HERBERT OBI EZEH

His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma joined the family of Late Col. Dr. Herbert Obi Ezeh in the burial ceremony of the retired Colonel.

Colonel Herbert Obi Ezeh who hails from the "Ikemba Town" of Ubahaeze Awo-Idemili in Orsu LGA of Imo State, was the Military Governor of old Anambra State from August 1990 to August 1991 and when Enugu State was created in 1991, he served as the first Military Governor of old Enugu State from August 1991 to January 1992.

"Eze War" as fondly called by his colleagues in the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Colonel Obi Ezeh lived above this unique identity to the point that he was decorated with the Chieftaincy titles of Ochendo 1 of Enugu State and Ikemba 1 of Orlu - a title that bequeath an identity of "Ikemba Town" to Ubahaeze.

In his condolence message, His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma eulogized the Late Colonel for his love to the unity of our fatherland and described his death as a great loss to the nation. The Governor commiserated with the Nigeria Military and the family, praying for fortitude in bearing the loss.

#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA AWARDS SCHOLARSHIP TO MISS CONFIDENCE CHINAZA NWOZUZU

It was a joyous moment as Miss Confidence Chinaza Nwozuzu received standing ovation from the Imo State Government Executive during her reception by Governor Hope Uzodimma at the Government House Executive Chambers today.

Miss Chinaza who hails from Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, had straight 9As including Science Subjects in the 2020 Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) thereby setting a meritorious record that has brought honour to the State.

In his remarks, His Excellency awarded State Scholarship up to any height as desired by Miss Chinaza while encouraging other sons and daughters of Imo State to remain dedicated in their educational pursuits as it remains the greatest developmental tool.


#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

ANAMBRA DECIDES!

WHY THE STATE SHOULD GO THE WAY OF APC

BY OBI TRICE

Historically, the month of November is significant and symbolic to Ndigbo's hostoric struggle for freedom, equity and equal opportunity in the Nigerian sociopolitical template. While the legendary great Zik of Africa, the courageous and sensational Ojukwu and maverick Francis A. Nzeribe were born in November, the Anambra election will be taking place a day after the birthday anniversary of yours sincerely.

Politically, Anambra State is now the focus of attention as it goes to the poll tomorrow to determine what happens to the future of the State in the next four years. Anambra holds a lot of importance to the people of South East and Nigeria however way it is looked at. No wonder the attention shift. The contenders representing the major political parties in the game are no push overs and have acquitted themselves in one endeavor or another, thus the keen contest.

For some time now, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) have made the state its fortress, the only state its presence is strongly felt in the country. But everything appears to indicate that it will lose the monopoly this time by tomorrow. Anambra election is significant for Ndigbo because it sign posts its readiness to actualize the dream of producing an Igbo president which the South East has been clamouring for. There is no better time to grab the opportunity than now that it beckons. Anambra election is the first right foot to put.

A zone that is clamouring for power rotation is expected to put every foot right leaving no opportunity to chance. Those who root for APGA to maintain their hold are only interested in the narrow individualistic political concern at the expense of the broader interest of ndi Igbo. At a period, every average well-meaning Igbo man is desirous of steering the wheel of political vehicle of this nation drowning ethnic interest and promoting national interest is of utmost priority, hence the conscientious, brilliant and strategic effort by Governor Hope Uzodimma to mobilize the greater percentage of our people into the larger national ship which the All Progressives Congress (APC) represents.

Identifying ourselves with the centre of action through strong participation would certainly provide us with the leverage to contest for a larger portion of the national cake as well as claim everything that rightfully belongs to us. In the Nigeria's political sphere, APGA is like an inconsequential, occupying a small space even among the Igbo it claims to represent its interest. The PDP is like a withering tree tothering and risks collapse any moment.

The massive influx of people from its fold into the APC everywhere you go (apologies to MTN) speaks volumes. More of its people and structures reports indicate, will still collapse into the ruling party. The loss of APGA's deputy governor and six legislators with their constituents and supporters is enough message to Anambra people to make hay while the Sun shines. Anambra people are highly reckoned as wise and intelligent people who makes good choices and decisions that guarantee them huge succeses in business and other endeavors. There is no doubt that they would bring that to bear in tomorrow's election.

A new APC governor in Anambra, plus Dave Umahi of Ebonyi and ever hard working irrepressible Gov Hope Uzodimma of Imo, the chances of Ndigbo securing the presidential ticket would further be strengthened and consolidated. Politics is a game of numbers and unfortunately Ndigbo appears naturally shortchanged in both the number of states, the population and the registered voters. It cannot further withdraw itself by voting APGA with all the baggages and yet expect to reap from the support of others.

To improve the stake of Ndigbo there is every reason for Anambra people to join the national conversation through the instrumentality of the ruling party-the All Progresssives Congress (APC). For ndi Anambra, voting APC tomorrow will broaden the political landscape of unlimited opportunities, economic prosperity and human empowerment. Fortunately, Senator Andy Uba, the governorship candidate of APC is an experienced administrator, skilled power broker and seasoned political team player who have an established network and goodwill across the niger to leverage on for the collective interest of Anambra state in particular and Ndigbo in general.

The political movement of former governors of Anambra moment after living office, points to the incontrovertible fact that AGPA in an instrument for the actualization of the narrow interest of it's operators. All the former governors elected on the APGA platform had all joined a national party immediately after leaving office to engage in national competitiveness- the outgoing governor Willie Obiano will not be an exception!. It is time for brothers and sisters in Anambra to wake up and take their destiny in their hands. There is no better time to do so than now.

It is on this note we call on all Anambrians to file out in their numbers tomorrow November 6, and break the shackles of political stagnation and isolation of over 16 years of their collective life.

Professor" Dora Akunyili
Nigerian Minister of Information and Communications


“I came down to my village to join my family, relations and well wishers to pay my last respect to my late sister Gloria but unknown to me, my family and invited guests, a large number of thugs loyal to Prof. Charles Soludo were carefully organized to disrupt my participation in my sister’s burial ceremony. I have never seen the number of thugs I saw on Friday in any event. The thugs were also instructed to embarrass my invited guests. As you may be aware, [b]Prof. Charles Soludo is marrying my late elder sister’s d[/b]aughter Nonye. So we are in-laws, but since he lost the last gubernatorial election in Anambra State, Prof. Soludo has singled me out as the source of his failure to win the election, and he convinced my sister to believe that I was the cause of his failure. All efforts by people to make him understand that I alone cannot make him Governor have failed. So he brought that anger, grudge and frustration to the burial of his mother in-law who is also my elder sister. All arrangements made by me and my other siblings to receive guests at Isuofia, where my late sister was residing (which is also Soludo’s village) were vandalized by Soludo’s hired thugs. They followed this up with text messages of blackmail to my guests, friends and well wishers. When the environment in Isuofia became too insecure, tense and hostile, I quietly relocated to my father’s compound at Nanka which is few kilometres away just to avoid trouble. But Soludo’s thugs also trailed us to my own village Nanka to commence trouble but the security agents quietly dismissed them.

I want to remark that my late sister Gloria was a very peaceful, Godly and well brought up woman. While she was alive, I enjoyed her love and friendship as a sister no matter what Soludo and his hired thugs think. Because of this, even in death, I will do nothing to dishonour her because what Soludo and his thugs has done is to dishonour her but God has taken control. I therefore wish to thank all my invited guest for their understanding and the church for their prayers and co-operation.”

"Professor" Charles Soludo
Immediate past Governor and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)


http://www.saharareporters.com/letters/press-releases/6578-how-prof-charles-soludo-sent-thugs-to-disrupt-my-sisters-burial-dora-akunyili-.html

Offtopic, am shocked by Madams bad use of English

We all know Soludo

The speaker of Imo state House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Paul Emeziem reportedly share 10m naira each to the 7 House members who purportedly impeached his deputy, Rt Hon Amarachi Iwuanyanwu, but the impeachment has been thwarted by the other house members.

UNDERSTANDING UZODIMMA’S TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN LEADERSHIP.

The Shared Prosperity administration's outstanding approach is obviously different from what we are used to - where past administrations converted public funds to private funds through contract frauds, diversion of public funds and forceful acquisition of government properties.

The HOPE of the common man is restored again in Imo, with due processes as exemplified in the recruitment excercise that has been carried out under this administration, the merit by which promotions were carried out in the State Civil Service even up to the positions of Permanent Secretary.

The Shared Prosperity administration has offered avenue for fair play both to the bourgeoisie and the commoners delineating what APC as a political party stands for - fairness for all.

The importance of opposition in a government cannot be underestimated but constructive criticism is what spices the pudding for result therefore, I encourage all IMO citizens both young and old, fair and dark, APC or Other parties, great and might etc to be patient with random observation on the outcome of this valuable God destined Governance to IMO people. It’s crystally clear that at the end, we will all eat the fattest flesh.


#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter.

IMOLITES WANT GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA TO SUCCEED IN HIS RECOVERY CRUSADE

... for the restoration of public confidence on government


In Imo State today, the common desire of the people is to see their Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma succeed in his works targeted at making Imo State better.

Imo people who have suffered bad leadership accompanied by abuse of power, lust for citizens' lands and properties, diversion and conversion of public funds into private ownership and many more in the past, look up to the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma as he has in his actions demonstrated that he has come to change the ugly narratives that militated the growth and development of Imo State.

Imo people want their Governor, Hope Uzodimma to succeed in recovering and returning back to the people their lands and properties that were illegally and forcefully taken away in the past by few people who were privileged to be in the corridor of power. For most Imo people, if the Governor succeeds in this, he has earned a pass mark in his service to the State.

It has therefore become obvious that Imolites are eagerly supporting Gov. Hope Uzodimma if not for any other thing but to continue with the uncommon transformation going on in the state as never been witnessed before.

#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

Governor Hope Uzodimma who has represented the interest of South-East and has always taken matters relating to the region personally, remains the Pride of Igbo land.

Without mincing words, Governor Hope Uzodimma has shown exemplary capacity as a unifier and the Rising Sun of Igbo nation. It will be recalled that during the working visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to Imo State, which on the auspices of Governor Hope Uzodimma, the President tagged Ndi Igbo as industrious and business-oriented people. Like never before, the President rated Igbo Nation excellently and accepted to visit the State despite the security alert.

Recently, Governor Hope Uzodimma stood firm to demand for compensation for Ndị Igbo insisting that the region suffered more during Civil War.

He also made demand for the creation of a sixth State for the Southeast. Few days later, the President approved payment of gratuities of 102 ex-Biafran soldiers.

One may wish to ask "who are the enemies of Igbo Nation?" The enemies of Igbo Nation are the individuals or group of persons disturbing and distorting the peace of Ndi Igbo. These set of people are driven by hate, bitterness and jealousy which has frustrated them into wrecking untold havoc in the once peaceful Igbo Nation.

Gov. Hope Uzodimma as a man of peace is going round the region, preaching peace, and unity to Ndi Igbo.

Governor hope as a governor has succeeded in influencing notable leaders in the region to join him, in search of peace to ensure a bright future for the youth.

We can only Pray for the Sun to continue shining, for the Progress of Igbo Nation.

BREATH OF FRESH AIR FOR LOCAL COUNCILS IN IMO UNDER UZODIMMA

It is a sad fact, as records have it, that outside the early 2000s, Governance at the local level in Imo State has been relegated to the background. In this our era, Legislators and State Governors, literally sit on the Local Government administration and grind it to a halt.

Ideally, State Governments should have no business fixing those pothole infested roads in local neighbourhoods, providing pipe-borne water in rural areas or providing desks for primary schools. That should be the primary responsibility of the local councils and local constituencies. The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria stipulates that the Local Government should be the closest to the people and should provide the basis for good governance in a democracy.

The cheering news is that the Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, has announced the readiness of the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) to conduct elections for the third tier of Government.

In a recent address, the Governor stated; "Any moment from now, the State Independent Electoral Commission will be rolling out the timetable for Local Government elections. We are going to encourage them, so that we can properly constitute the various organs of Government at Local Government.”

This news heralds Hope. Hope for a significant come back to days that the concerns of the citizenry can be addressed by the local council. All the issues raised about restructuring the Nigerian federation without empowering the local governments and making that arm of government the most functional in a federation in order to ensure development from the grassroots, won’t mean a thing, without proper council elections.

Even with the many battles and constraints the Uzodimma led administration is faced with, no focus has been lost as to empowering the local councils to be more productive and effective, with moves to also rejuvenate our Local Government Development Areas as it were.

There’s truly Hope in Imo.

#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

Imo State Civil Service: Gov. Uzodimma Has Restored The Lost Glory Through Quality Reforms In The System.

Before the Shared Prosperity Government came into power, Imo State Civil Service was at its lowest point in the history of our dear state because of the malfeasance of the former state administration that nearly destroyed the entire system.

The People's Governor, Hope Uzodimma upon taking the oath of office and knowing fully, that urgent attention was needed for the narratives to change, immediately swung into action with some quality reforms to restore the lost glory of the State Civil Service.

Apart from sponsoring the training and retraining of the civil servants to meet up to contemporary standards required of them to produce good results at work, the governor went ahead to introduce the best welfare package ever seen before for civil servants, in the State, by launching a free buses for them within the Owerri metropolis and also promised to extend it to other parts of the state to restore the dignity and pride of the workers.

In his interactions with Imo Stakeholders few months ago, Gov. Uzodimma brought to their notice, the return of merrit as a policy thrust in the State Civil Service which is evident in the latest appointment of 11 new Permanent Secretaries having emerged from a transparent promotion exercise.

"The reforms we instituted in the civil service, including but not limited to the automation of staff welfare settlements, has returned the consciousness of the staff and their attitude to work. I am confident to announce that based on this automation, civil servants and pensioners are paid as at when due and we would continue to clear others who have not received their entitlements due to discrepancies" the Governor said.

Imo is truly wining.

#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

GOVERNOR HOPE UZODIMMA FELICITATES WITH THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY ON EID-EL-MAULUD.

HIS Excellency, the Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has expressed felicitation with the Muslim Community in Imo State, and the world over as they commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad today.

In his message, the Governor prayed for the peace and blessings associated with the celebration to be upon the Muslim faithfuls now and always while urging a transmission of same in their daily life for the enthronement of peace and unity amongst all.

His Excellency further called for continued peaceful coexistence as it remains the only means to achieving development in the land.


#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

LA PINKY: A MAN WORTHY OF CELEBRATION.

October 16th of every year, is usually a day great men and women are celebrated marking their birthday. Among them is Mr. Elochukwu Kingsley AKA La Pinky.

La Pinky hails from Umuago Esimoma in Ideato South of Imo State.

First born child of the sage and legal luminary Barr. Samuel Adumekwe, the oldest African to bag an LL.B degree.

LaPinky is the chairman and chief executive officer of LaPinky Productions and Aezkings Nigeria limited.

He has distinguished himself as a lover of humanity where he has given out scholarships and help to establish alot of youths in their various business.

Pinky as he is fondly called by friends and close associate is the state patron of Nigeria Youth Congress an apex youth body in Nigeria.

Pinky has a guiding philosophy of "each one need one" which underline his principle that no man can survive alone as an island.

Little wonder thousands of people whom he has empowered are pouring eulogies on him celebrating him his birthday.

Truly Elochukwu Kingsley Adumekwe aka LaPinky is worthy of Celebration. We say a happy birthday to him !

Gov. Uzodimma and the Magic wand.

In spite of disturbances arising from economic down time occasioned by the Covid - 19 pandemic, to Youth restiveness nicknamed, "END SARS PROTESTS" and now the politically motivated insecurity and unrest, in Imo State, the man Uzodimma has not rested on his oars or give excuses and justifications. He went straight to the workshop where Imo was dumped by his predecessors, and has continued to up with strategies to confront the dire needs of the state.

The roads in Imo:- This sector yearned for attention for a very long time but suffered huge neglect by successive administrations but Uzodimma's Midas touch is being felt, currently, as roads in the State are getting a facelift, gradually but steadily.

Civil service:- This sector experienced so much decay and was in a near comatose situation until Gov. Uzodimma arrived. He quickly provided free buses to convey workers to and fro, daily, to ease the burden of transport fare on the workers. The digitalisation of the sector promises great succour to speed up the recovery of the Civil Service in the State.

IGR:- Gov. Uzodimma introduced Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy in the state, which aided in plugging all the loop holes through which our common patrimony was being siphoned and this resulted to increased revenue generation monthly.

Youth emancipation: The Governor pioneered an all encompassing youth empowerment program and currently embarking on a youth based Agropreneur Programme which is geared towards an Agro -revolution in the state. It is aptly tagged "one man, one farm".

Security: The issue security, in Imo State, is one that would have become a national discourse, had Gov. Uzodimma not courageously risen to the occasion to reverse the trend. Though, believed to be a politically motivated insecurity, Gov. Hope Uzodimma has refused to allow the lives of Imo people to be used to settle political scores. He has made far reaching engagement of the critical stakeholders in the State, and this is yielding fruits and in no distant time the issue of insecurity in Imo State would have completely been a thing of the past.

The practised ease with which Gov. Uzodimma attends to the needs of Imo people has led to the conception, by people, that this must be some sort of the legendary magic wand, yet he doesn't hide the fact that all he desires is a better Imo State that we can all be proud of.

#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter
#Udokanma
#HopeNewandElectronicMediaCenterMbaitoliChapter

FORUM FOR OIL COMMUNITIES IN IMO STATES

RE: JUSTICE MARY ODILI AND THE MARCABA DANCE ON 17 OIL WELLS BELONGING TO IMO STATE

Indigenes of the oil communities in Imo State have registered their displeasure over the recent interim order by the Supreme Court restraining the Federal Government of Nigeria from returning the 17 oil wells cedded to the Rivers State back to Imo State Government.

Their displeasure was heightened on realizing that the said justice Mary odili is from mbaise in Imo state but married to the Odin's in River state and led the squad of questionable character of justices who granted the infamous ex- past order against against the federal government in such a contentious matter without recourse to elementary judicial principle of fair hearing, thus stalling the administrative process of returning the 17 oil wells and areas of income generated by these olu wells from 5he being created to Imo state government which expectedly will cescade to infrastructural and social development of the oil communities.

Further inquiries were made by the angry youth of the communities who made public their findings to the effect that the said justice Mary odili was employed in the Nigerian judiciary with slot from Imo state as an indegene and take the biblical Judas iscariot and sold the future of Imo state for a Porrage of yam and shackles from the tongue wagging government of River state NYESOM WIKE. Consideration for the peanut was enough to sway the mind of a high ranking judicial officer in the person of marry odili who ought to show that justice is not for sale by recasting herself of fair hearing, her origin and citizenship of River state by marriage are fact which have made the youth accept without any doubt that justice mary odili is compromised. The most honourable thing would have been her recuse from the panel but she prevailed in her evil against Imo state with her curruptale and biase demeanor/disposition murdered justice and fairness, the below was quite resounding against her state of origin. The wound and economic cost of this betrayal remains indelible to Imolites. It is appalling that such high ranking judicial officer could stoop so low as to allow such consideration from crumbs falling off wike's table to sway the course of justice. Justice indeed is for sale at the highest stage to the dirtiest player. This conduct of justice mary odili can be likened to the story of the washer man's donkey that lagged to allow her take a shade under the washer man canopy and ended up wrecking the canopy ingratitude and wickedness are responsible for such wicked acts

It is obvious that she is returning favour to the Rivers state government for crumbs her family receives as stipend from the governor of Rivers State to herself & larger family members.

The of justice Mary Odili in this regard is a ridicule to the Justice system and a shame. It shows that justice is for sale and that the concert is no longer the last hope of the common man, if the can manipulate the judicoil system of Nigeria at the highest point to rob the common Imo people of their economic, social & infrastructural development hopes.

These youths are weeping for the judicial system of our dear country. What a shame Odili! What a disgrace! What a daylight robbery.

Courtesy:
FORUM FOR OIL COMMUNITIES IN IMO STATE

FORUM FOR DEMOCRATIC ADVOCACY

The need has arisen for us to call to order imo state PDP chapter to desist from their culture of hawking fake news and creating undue tension in the land.

We are aware that IMO PDP has been sponsoring information that IPOB has been harming people and destroying life’s and properties in imo state. The aim of this fake news is to make imo state seem ungovernable and at war.
IMO PDP wants Nigerians to feel that this current state administration is to blame for the agitations of IPOB and hence IPOB is particularly aggrevied at imolites. We would like to dispel this narrative as it is dangerous for the peace and tranquility of imolites. Unfortunately for them imo lites are enjoying relative peace and progress at the moment and their bad intentions for imo lites won’t see the light of day as we are in Gods hands. Any criminal activity going on currently is being carried out by normal petty criminals which no state is exempted from as this administration has rooted out the main criminal elements that have been operating in imo state.

THE PDP as an opposition has detoriated beyond imagination. Instead of them to utilise social media as tool to constructively engage the government of the day, they have resulted to the activities of criminals by engaging in online bullying and fake news. The fake alarms and rumours that they peddle is currently being investigated by the relevant security agencies and we want to assure them that the sponsors would be brought to book very soon.

As for Emeka ihedioha, Gerard irona, Uche Onyeaguocha and imo state PDP, we want to assure them that IMO state is at peace and God is just starting with us in his good deeds and with his mercies, the good intentions we are working towards would be realised and imolites would benefits from the dividends of democracy they worked and fought to acheive.

IMO STATE GOVERNMENT TO COMMENCE AGRO BASED MASTERCLASS FOR IMO YOUTHS

Office of the Imo State Governor, Youth Affairs, has announced the commencement of an Agro-based Masterclass for Imo youths across the 27 Local Government Areas.

Speaking on this, the Special Adviser to His Excellency on Youth Affairs, Hon. Eric Uwakwe hinted on the engagement of Professionals in the agricultural industry for this all important Masterclass on Agricultural Farming for Imo Youths.

Themed One Youth; One Farm, the program is geared towards enriching Imo Youths with necessary skills and exposure to the agricultural industry as a lucrative alternate to economic growth and independence while promoting food security.

The training would commence on Monday 4th October and run through Saturday 9th October, 2021 and very much open to all Imo Youths across the state. Imolites are therefore enjoined to key into this program and harness the potentials thereof.

#HopeNewAndElectronicMediaCenter

OFFICE OF THE IMO STATE GOVERNOR, YOUTH AFFAIRS:

PRESS RELEASE:
The Imo State Government through the Office of the Governor on Youth Affairs will officially kick-off a One Week Agro based program tagged "PROJECT 1 YOUTH, 1 FARM” which will see several youths empowered in diverse agro based ventures such as crop production, livestock farming, business development, funding and feasibility studies.

The objective of this initiative is driven by the vision of the 3R Administration led by His Excellency, Dist. Sen. Hope Uzodinma to empower the youths by impacting meaningful skills that would uplift them from the doldrums of economic hardship whilst also making them employers of labor.

This human capital development project pioneered by the Office of the Governor, Youth Affairs is in tandem with the need for Imo Youths to create sustainable wealth by exploring the economic opportunities hidden in the agro sector.

And as part of this efforts, we would be engaging the services of renowned professionals who have been tested, proven and trusted across various agricultural lines to assist in grooming the over 500 participants in order to ensure maximum impact.

Having stated thus, on behalf of the Executive Governor of Imo State, Dist. Sen. Hope Uzodinma, I formally flag off the initiative “PROJECT 1 YOUTH, 1 FARM”

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

Long live Imo State!

Signed:
Hon Eric Uwakwe
SA to the Governor of Imo State on Youth Affairs.

GOVERNOR UZODIMMA ALLOCATES BRAND NEW BUSES TO MINISTRIES, DEPARTMENT & AGENCIES IN THE STATE

In the bid to improve performance in service rendered to Ndi Imo, the Proactive Governor, His Excellency distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma has allocated brand new Buses to different ministries, departments, and agencies of the State Government.

According to the Governor while briefing Government House Correspondents, stated that there is no way parastatals can work or navigate smoothly with improved productivity if easy movement of staff to places of assignments isn't considered .

“If you send someone to work, you have to give them tools to work with, and what we have done is to give them tools to work with to enhance productivity in services rendered to the people “. Governor Uzodimma stated.

#hopenewandelectronicmediacenter

Imo N-PDP welcomes the ouster of Uche Secondus. Describes former National Chairman as the harbinger of one man stranglehold over PDP in Imo State

The factional New PDP in Imo State has issued a statement welcoming the removal of Prince Uche Secondus as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party.

In a statement made available to journalists in Imo State, the N-PDP stated that the ouster of Secondus will open the Imo State PDP to broader participation by the silent majority of members of the party who has been excluded from party affairs since after the governorship primaries of the party in 2018.

Detailing the bias of Secondus in handling the affairs of the party in Imo State, the N-PDP posited that it was under the direction of the former chairman that Chief Osita Chidoka was sent to Imo State to mismanage the three man delegate election of the party which saw to the removal of the authentic delegates and their illegal and fraudulent substitution with a fake list from a known ally of Secondus who went on to win the party primaries.

The N-PDP also alleged in the statement that it was the same Secondus that brought in the compromised Senator Nwaka from Abia State to come and conduct the party primaries at the Kanu Nwankwo sports arena despite their written petition against Senator Nwaka.

Describing their three years of disenfranchisement from Imo State PDP as inhuman and despicable, the N-PDP thanked His Excellency Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State for coming to the rescue of PDP and by extension liberating the Imo State from the clutches of a known political tyrant and dictator who has foreclosed all avenues for reconciliation with a section of membership of the party who exercised their democratic rights to choose a candidate of their choice in the 2018 party primaries.

The Imo N-PDP while expressing a vote of confidence on Senator Samuel Anyanwu called on the new leadership of the party at the national level to convene a stakeholders meeting of Imo PDP where all shades of opinion will be heard with a view of disbanding the present state executive and the composition of an all inclusive party structure from the wards to the local government and at the State level.

Interrogate Your Consciences And Do The Right Thing ~Governor Uzodimma tasks striking tanker drivers.

*FULL STORY OF THE FUEL STRIKE IN IMO STATE*

"A road construction contractor not even during my regime destroyed some parts of a gas/filling station at Orlu.

"The owner of the station took the contractor to court. Imo State Government was just a party - the 4th defendant in the case.

Ridiculously, a judge ordered that Imo State should pay the contractor some money in excess of a hundred million.

"This case, Imo State government is not the main defendant. What we did was to issue a notice of appeal, apply for stay of execution.

Then the owner of the station haven being a tanker driver took undue advantage of his relationship with the association, and got the tanker drivers to embark on a strike.

"Now that we have appealed, they should be patient enough to hear what the Court of Appeal will say.

"Am appealing to them to interrogate their consciences and do the right thing by ensuring that they do their businesses too because by cutting the supply of fuel, they are also not doing their businesses and it's the poor people who are not able to travel out to buy fuel that the thing will affect.

~Governor Hope Uzodimma

OPEN GRAZING: GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA ON THE SAME PATH WITH THE PEOPLE

It is unfortunate that while the state government is busy working for the greater good of the people through various policies and programmes, some persons have already positioned their minds to always initiate actions that can pull down the administration through every means within their reach.

The recent statement by Gov. Hope Uzodimma on open grazing has been another point of misinterpretation, propaganda and a ploy to tarnish the image of the administration by some elements whose stock-in-trade never runs out of falsehood.

It has become necessary that we make it clear that Imo State since 2007 under the administration of Gov. Achike Udenwa enacted a law against grazing at restricted areas which has been in effect till date.

We are not oblivious of the fact that while other states may have this law in motion, these herders have gone ahead to defy it and cause havoc unabated despite the efforts of some state government to bring them to book.

Since cattle business is also a source of revenue to the Government, it is only fit and proper for the state government and the association of these herders to sign a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) on clear terms of operation in the state. This measure will bring about peaceful coexistence and help both parties to guard against herdsmen menace and cattle rustlers alike and ensure they are law-abiding.

Since law number 9 of 2006 (Imo state Prohibition of Grazing at Restricted Areas) which was assented to in 2007 has never been repealed or revoked and neither has there been a call for its amendment then we have no reason to misunderstand or worry as the opposition only see Imo people as pawns in their own game of chess.

Again, we are not surprise at the antics of the opposition as it is old fashioned and the people are no longer moved by their childish, comical conspiracies. The Governor never said anything about pulling out from the decisions of the Southern Governors Forum on Open grazing but only stated what was obtainable in the state, at the moment.

Imolites and the General Public should therefore disregard the insinuations and hearsay as being peddled by the enemies of the State and be rest assured that government policies are not anti-people but one that will promote peaceful coexistence and development in Imo State.

Ezeafurukwe Paul Ihunanya
#3r_masquerade
DG New Media