The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Hope Uzodinma

  • Garlands for Governor Hope Uzodinma

    Garlands for Governor Hope Uzodinma

    In an era where Nigerian workers across various states grapple with economic hardship and delayed salary payments, amidst other poor working conditions, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has emerged as a shining example of what leadership with a human face truly means. His recent approval of a groundbreaking N104,000 minimum wage for Imo State civil servants represents more than just a salary adjustment—it is a powerful statement about the dignity of public service and the transformative potential of good governance in Nigeria.

    Governor Uzodinma’s decision to increase the minimum wage from N76,000 to N104,000 transcends traditional wage adjustments, it is indeed revolutionary. This bold move represents a fundamental shift in how state governments can approach the welfare of their workforce. By setting the new minimum wage significantly above the national standard of N70,000, Uzodinma has demonstrated that Nigerian states can indeed prioritize the economic wellbeing of their citizens without compromising fiscal responsibility.

    This increase is not merely about numbers on a paycheck—it is about ensuring that Imo civil servants can earn a living income that upholds their dignity as state mandarins. For too long, public servants across Nigeria have endured wages that barely meet basic subsistence needs, forcing many into secondary employment , lack of motivation, corruption and financial distress. Uzodinma’s initiative acknowledges that civil servants are the backbone of effective governance and deserve compensation that reflects their vital contribution to state development.

    The governor’s vision extends far beyond the basic minimum wage adjustment. The comprehensive nature of his wage review demonstrates a deep understanding of the diverse needs within the civil service ecosystem. By increasing doctors’ salaries from N215,000 to N503,000, Uzodinma has recognized the critical role healthcare professionals play in ensuring the wellbeing of Imo citizens. This substantial increase can address the brain drain that has plagued Nigeria’s healthcare sector on one hand where qualified medical personnel often seek better opportunities abroad or in the private sector whilst making the state healthcare system more attractive and efficient.

    READ ALSO: How long can Wike walk the tightrope?

    Similarly, the increase in teachers’ salaries in tertiary institutions from N119,000 to N222,000 reflects Uzodinma’s commitment to educational excellence. By investing in educators, the governor is investing in the future of Imo State, ensuring that the next generation receives quality education from motivated and fairly compensated teachers. This holistic approach to wage adjustment demonstrates that Uzodinma views governance not as a series of isolated policies but as an interconnected system where each component’s wellbeing affects the whole.

    Governor Uzodinma’s achievement becomes even more remarkable when viewed against the backdrop of Nigeria’s current economic challenges. Across the nation, numerous state governments struggle to meet their basic obligations to workers, with salary arrears mounting and civil servants enduring months without pay. In this context, Uzodinma’s decision to not only pay regularly but to significantly increase wages represents a masterclass in fiscal management and priority setting.

    While his counterparts in other states cite revenue constraints and federal allocation dependencies as barriers to worker welfare, Uzodinma has proven that creative governance can overcome these challenges. His administration’s success in boosting internally generated revenue has provided the fiscal foundation for this wage increase, demonstrating that states can reduce their dependence on federal allocations through strategic economic policies and efficient revenue collection.

    Likewise, the  psychological and social impact of Uzodinma’s wage policy extends far beyond the immediate financial relief it provides. For years, civil servants across Nigeria have endured the indignity of wages that fail to reflect their education, experience, and contribution to society.

    By ensuring that civil servants earn a living wage, Governor Uzodinma has restored pride to public service in Imo State. When civil servants can afford decent housing, quality education for their children, and healthcare for their families without financial stress, they can focus entirely on their professional responsibilities. This creates a virtuous cycle where improved worker welfare translates to better service delivery and enhanced public satisfaction with government performance.

    The ripple effects of Uzodinma’s progressive wage policy extend beyond Imo State’s borders. The Nigeria Labour Congress has already called on federal and other state governments to emulate Imo’s example, recognizing the transformative potential of such policies. This external validation underscores the national significance of Uzodinma’s achievement and positions him as a thought leader in Nigerian governance.

    Other governors now face increased pressure from their civil servants and organized labor to justify why they cannot replicate Imo’s success. This healthy competition among states could catalyze a nationwide improvement in worker welfare, potentially breaking the cycle of poverty wages that have characterized public service in Nigeria for decades.

    Beyond the immediate impact on civil servants, Uzodinma’s wage increase will generate significant economic multiplier effects throughout Imo State. When workers have more disposable income, they increase their consumption of goods and services, stimulating local businesses and creating additional employment opportunities. This increased economic activity generates more tax revenue for the state, creating a sustainable cycle of prosperity.

    Local markets, housing sectors, educational institutions, and service providers will all benefit from the increased purchasing power of civil servants. This economic stimulus effect demonstrates that investing in worker welfare is not just a moral imperative but also a sound economic strategy that benefits the entire state.

    Governor Hope Uzodinma’s minimum wage initiative stands as a testament to what is possible when Nigerian leaders prioritize the welfare of their citizens over personal aggrandizement. His administration has proven that the oft-cited excuse of insufficient resources is often a reflection of misplaced priorities rather than genuine fiscal constraints.

    In a political landscape often characterized by unfulfilled promises and policy reversals, Uzodinma’s swift implementation of this wage increase demonstrates his commitment to action over rhetoric. This decisive leadership style has not only improved the lives of Imo civil servants but has also restored faith in the possibility of responsive, caring governance in Nigeria.

    As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges and social tensions, Governor Hope Uzodinma’s example provides a roadmap for how dedicated leadership can make a tangible difference in citizens’ lives. His minimum wage policy is more than a salary adjustment—it is a powerful demonstration that governance in Nigeria can indeed have a human face, prioritizing the dignity and welfare of those who serve the public good. Through this bold initiative, Uzodinma has not only transformed the lives of Imo civil servants but has also set a new standard for compassionate leadership across Nigeria.

  • Heartland lauds  Uzodinma for retaining  Amuneke as Imo Sports Ambassador

    Heartland lauds  Uzodinma for retaining  Amuneke as Imo Sports Ambassador

    Heartland FC has expressed deep appreciation to Imo State  Governor Hope Uzodinma for retaining the club’s Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke, as the Grand Ambassador of Sports Development in the state.

    In an official statement, the club lauded the governor’s commitment to youth development through sports, describing the reconfirmation as a recognition of Amuneke’s ongoing contributions to football and sports in Imo.

    The club noted that Amuneke has been serving in the ambassadorial role for some time and emphasized that his renewed appointment underscores the governor’s appreciation for his work. They further stated that Amuneke remains fully focused on his primary mission at Heartland FC, despite the additional state-wide responsibilities.

    “We are using this medium to express our profound appreciation and gratitude to the Imo State Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma for reaffirming our Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke as the Grand Ambassador of Sports Development in the state,” the club disclosed.

    Read Also: FG fulfills promise of house allocations to 94 Super Eagles

    “We know that our Technical Manager has been serving in this capacity for quite some time now and your reconfirmation showed that you  appreciate all what Emmanuel Amuneke has been doing to change the face of Imo through sports most especially his calling- football.

    “We are aware of your desire to make Imo the hub of sports and your bid to make sports a vehicle for youth engagement and job creation is commendable with Amuneke at the centre of it.”

    Heartland FC also praised Governor Uzodinma’s efforts in supporting the club and reiterated its commitment to ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the team for greater success.

    “Knowing the impeccable role he is to play as the Grand Ambassador of Sports Development in Imo State, our Technical Manager has insisted that he would not be distracted by his main mission at Heartland FC.

    “We praise the Governor for all that he has been doing for the club and while thanking him for the recognition on our Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke we also want to assure him that the plan to ensure that the club is properly reformed remains unshakable.”

  • Continuity as Strategy: The APC’s Path to Stability and Continued Dominance led by President Tinubu, Ganduje and Gov Hope Uzodinma

    Continuity as Strategy: The APC’s Path to Stability and Continued Dominance led by President Tinubu, Ganduje and Gov Hope Uzodinma

    Nigeria’s political history is filled with well-intentioned policies derailed by legislative turnover. Just as a football team would never bench its star players before a crucial match, a serious political party cannot afford to discard its most effective lawmakers at the height of their productivity. As the 2027 elections approach, the All Progressives Congress (APC) faces a defining choice: embrace continuity and stability, or risk the familiar chaos of divisive primaries and factional disputes that have undermined governance in the past.  

    The Tinubu administration has spent two years laying the groundwork for long-term reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda. But without experienced hands in the National Assembly, these efforts could unravel. Each election cycle, Nigeria loses seasoned legislators to political turnover. This forces the executive to restart negotiations, rebuild alliances, and re-explain policies to new lawmakers. The result is delayed progress, stalled projects, and squandered momentum. These are luxuries Nigeria cannot afford.  

    The solution lies in rewarding performance and ensuring stability. By supporting the return of lawmakers who have delivered for their constituents and aligned with the party’s vision, the APC can maintain focus on governance rather than internal battles. More importantly, this approach prevents the prolonged political distraction that accompanies primary season. This is typically a period where governance takes a backseat to survival politics.  

    READ ALSO; A Bold Step for Stability and Progress: Tinubu and Ganduje’s Vision for Legislative Continuity

    This is not merely a suggestion. It is the official position of the party’s leadership, backed by President Tinubu, Chairman Ganduje, and pragmatic governors like Hope Uzodinma. Any resistance, particularly from within the party’s ranks, must be recognized for what it represents. It is a challenge to both the President’s authority and the collective decision of the APC. At this critical juncture, the party cannot afford internal divisions. The stakes are simply too high.  

    Critics may argue that this limits competition, but they miss the broader point. This is not about suppressing democracy. It is about recognizing and retaining competence. Lawmakers who have proven their ability to govern, legislate, and win elections deserve the chance to build on their achievements. Why replace them with untested candidates when continuity offers stability and a stronger path to electoral success?  

    This indeed is a practice by the very innovators of the type of democracy we practice as a Nation, – the United States of America. The two main political parties in the USA; The Republican Party and The Democratic Party practice a protection and almost a right of first refusal to its Congressmen and Senators which has led to incomparable legislative experience between US Lawmakers as against lawmakers across the world.

    The APC’s 2023 victory was no accident. It was the product of unity, strategic planning, and a clear governance agenda. To replicate that success in 2027, the party must remain disciplined and focused. Those who undermine this vision risk not only the party’s future but also Nigeria’s progress.  

    The message is clear. Stand with the party’s decision, or stand aside. The APC will not tolerate internal sabotage. Not when the nation’s stability and the party’s legacy hang in the balance.  

    This is the party’s position. This is the President’s vision. And this is how the APC will secure another decisive victory in 2027. By prioritizing governance, rewarding excellence, and ensuring continuity where it matters most.

  • Africa needs home-grown solution to insecurity, says Uzodimma

    Africa needs home-grown solution to insecurity, says Uzodimma

    Insecurity is a global challenge. African countries are now realising that terrorism, banditry and other forms of violence which affect their socio-economic development can be effectively tackled through synergy, knowledge exchange and collaboration.

    Among the initiatives jointly sponsored by a number of contigious countries are joint border patrols, and the exchange of intelligence to counter the extensive terrorist networks and possibly track their sources of funding and arms supply.

    How the Armed Forces, particularly the Airforce, can frontally improve on air security, drawing from the cooperation of their counterparts across the globe was the focus of the Fourth Africa Air Forces Forum held in Lagos at the weekend.

    The theme of the brainstorming session hosted by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Hassan Abubakar, was: ‘Strengthening Collaboration in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security.’

    At the conference, Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) Chairman and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma set the tone for the robust discussion by high-profile professionals and aerospace technology experts, who converged on the conference hall of Eko Hotel, Victoria Island.

    In his view, the forum is both timely and auspicious because of the shared security vision that it embodies, noting that Air Marshal Abubakar hosted the conference due to his resolve to inspire confidence in defence capability in the region.

    Airspace defines sovereignty. In today’s world, it also shapes a nation’s survival. Across Africa, countries are being increasingly confronted by a complex web of transboundary threats. These range from terrorism and banditry to cyber incursions and resource-based conflicts.

    Also, borders or timelines do not confine these challenges, as noted by Uzodimma, who believes that “as the threats evolve, so must our responses, not only in tactical precision but also in collaborative foresight.”

    The governor is not an expert in military science. Nor is he a security expert. But as a statesman, he has been involved in security policy formulation as head of a sub-national unit within the Nigerian federation that has been battling with threats to peace in more than a decade. He also has access to intelligence that can make him realistically asses the gravity of the situation as a key actor in the country.

    What is important, in the opinion of Uzodimma, is for Nigeria, and indeed other African countries, to look for a home-grown solution to terror and banditry,  even as they collaborate with their distant technological countries in the western world.

    Uzodimma believes that airpower remains one of the most versatile tools of modern defence, offering speed, reach, deterrence, and intelligence superiority. However, although some African nations have built impressive capabilities, they are inadequate 

    “Egypt has over 1,000 military aircraft, Algeria has 600-plus, and Nigeria maintains 163 aircraft. These numbers alone are insufficient. We need not only more aircraft but smarter integration of our air assets into a collective security architecture,” he said.

    Uzodinma acknowledged that the Multinational Joint Task Force, established in 2014  by the Lake Chad Commission in response to the threat of Boko Haram, was a right step in the right direction. Nigeria, Benin Republic, Cameron,  Chad and Niger constituted the joint force. Through the joint operations, the countries had achieved real gains in their efforts to secure their territories.

    Hailing the initiative, he said: “We have neutralised terrorist strongholds, restored communities, and enabled safe resettlement.”

     However, there are still obvious gaps in intelligence coordination, operational interoperability, and shared logistics. “These must be addressed not in theory but through mechanisms we build together,” Uzodimma added.

    The governor said the continent must realise its limitations and work on their deficiencies as they plan for the future. He said the hard truth is that “Africa remains largely dependent on external suppliers for critical aerospace and defence needs,” stress that “this reliance leaves us vulnerable to both market volatility and strategic manipulation.”

    However, is not hopeless, Uzodimma pointed out that across the continent, signs of transformation are emerging.

    “The Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation is producing small arms and experimenting with advanced platforms. Private firms like Proforce are manufacturing world-class Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, already deployed in Chad, Niger, and Rwanda.

     “South Africa has doubled its defence exports since 2020, supplying advanced systems and electronic warfare equipment. Morocco has become a trusted aerospace manufacturing hub, producing for Airbus and other global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

    “Egypt and Algeria maintain mature domestic defence industries, while Ethiopia and Zambia have made strides in self-sufficiency and technology integration,” he stressed.

    Besides, the governor noted that, at least, 35 indigenous drone models are in development or active service across Africa, adding that “Nigeria leads in this domain, with 28 drone systems operational or undergoing tests.

    “This is a powerful signal that we are not passive consumers of security technology; we are increasingly becoming architects of our solutions,” he said.

    However, the PGF Chairman said that intention must now meet execution.

     His words: “We must translate our shared aspirations into binding frameworks: mutual defence agreements, co-development pacts, pooled logistics platforms, shared research infrastructure, and joint training protocols. These are not luxuries. In the face of 21st-century threats, they are necessary instruments of survival.”

    Read Also: Police extradite Nigerian fugitive from UAE Over $307,500 fraud

    Uzodimma justified the increased defence budgets across Africa, saying that they are dictated by the prevailing security challenges. He said the increased defence spending ($25 billion in Algeria, $13.4 billion in Morocco, $3.1 billion in Nigeria) shows that the continent is willing to invest.

    However, the governor said these countries must align these investments with coherent goals of  “technology transfer, indigenous innovation, and workforce development.” Nigeria, he said, should learn from them.

    “ South Africa and Morocco have shown how aerospace progress fuels economic growth and job creation. We must take a cue from these countries,” he added.

    Uzodimma praised the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force for adopting a self-reliant approach, reactivating long-abandoned aircraft, deploying locally developed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) like the Tsaigumi, and incorporating academic research into mission planning and systems design. In his view, the innovative paradigm shift is redefining the scope of African-led innovation in defence.

    The governor said the forum should look inward and embrace what he described as a new doctrine; an African aerospace doctrine rooted in local capacity, governed by shared standards and fuelled by political commitment.

    “Our continent has the institutions. The African Union and regional economic communities already provide frameworks for collective action. What is left is the courage to act, the will to fund, and the discipline to implement,” he added.

    The governor pointed out that “the era when air superiority was seen as a privilege is gone,” stressing that it is now a requirement for sovereignty and peace. Urging participants to reflect on these realities, Uzodinma said the Airforce should move from principles to policies so that their deliberations can advance the cause of peace, prosperity and security

    “African skies must not remain exposed and unprotected, and African solutions can no longer wait,” he said.

  • NSF: Uzodinma cheers Bros, Festival Ambassadors in Owerri

    NSF: Uzodinma cheers Bros, Festival Ambassadors in Owerri

     Governor Hope Uzodinma has described the unveiling of Bros, the Mascot for the forthcoming Niger Delta Sports Festival Mascot, in Owerri, as ‘an important event in Imo State’, adding he looks forward to more collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    Friday’s event  which was held amid pomp and ceremony  at the Landmark Event Centre in the posh New Owerri Development Area, had in attendance top echelon of the NDDC led by the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye as well as members of the Imo State Executive Council, Senators and some members of the House of Representatives.

    Heralded by traditional dancers and serenaded by the Imo State choral group, Bros emerged digitally and live with a pose that had audience in a standing applause.

    “The Mascot is derived from the Dolphin, which like the Niger Delta in Nigeria, has presence, prominence and respect in its environment,”Itiako Ikpokpo, the Lead Consultant at Dunamis Icon and Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee for the NDSF, told the audience the story of Bros.

    Read Also: NPFL: Rivers United close gap on leaders Remo Stars

    He added: “The name, Bros, is a short form for ‘Brother’ which is commonly used in the Niger Delta, depicting the oneness, friendship and camaraderie that they share. Simply put, all Niger Deltans are brothers and they call themselves ‘Bros’.

    The presence of Festival Ambassadors led by two former African Footballers of the Year, Victor Ikpeba and Emmanuel Amuneke added colour and excitement as guests eagerly sought to pose for pictures and videos with them.

    Other Ambassadors who were unveiled alongside the duo were World women wrestling champion, Blessing Oborodudu, former Africa sprints champion, Seun Ogunkoya, Tamunosiki Atorudibo, Olympic medallist, Patience Igbiti and former Falcons captain, Efionwan Ekpo.

    Earlier in his welcome address at the event which was also a celebration of the NDDC 25th  years of operation, Ogbuku said: “the festival aims to promote regional integration and discover new sporting talents in the Niger Delta region.”

    Concluding the  introduction of Bros, Ikpokpo added: “Dolphins are also very sociable and cultural. They entertain, learn, teach their young ones, build social bonds and have a high sense of cooperation and mutual existence.

    “Importantly, Dolphins communicate in various ways, just like we have various languages and ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta, but all united in diversity.

    “Niger Deltans are all Bros,” he added. .

  • Court threatens to order Senator Uzodinma’s arrest

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has threatened to order the issuance of arrest warrant against Senator Hope Uzodinma should his lawyer renege on his pledge to produce him in court on April 18.

    The Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property (SPIP) said it has, since filing a criminal charge against Uzodinma in October last year, been unable to have him attend court to plea to the charge.

    Lawyer to SPIP, Celcius Ukpong, on Friday, recounted efforts made by his agency since filing the charge, to make Uzodinma honour court’s hearing notices, but without success.

    Ukpong told the court that the SPIP was also investigating the Senator, representing Imo West in respect of a $10million contract for the dredging of Calabar Port, which he and his company allegedly failed to execute after being paid by the government.

    He faulted claim by Uzodinma’s lawyer, I. E.Ogueju-Dike that the senator, who was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last governorship election in Imo State, was abroad on medical grounds.

    Ukpong said it was impossible for Uzodinma to lawfully travel out of the country without being arrested.

    He said having jumped the administrative bail granted him by SPIP, he has since been placed on watch list and would be arrested anytime he attempts to leave the country.

    Ukpong then urged the court to order Uzodinma for deliberately refusing to attend court despite being served with the charge and several hearing notices.

    Ogueju-Dike faulted Ukpong’s claim and accused him of unduly portraying his client as a criminalm

    He said the case before the court was in relation to allegation of non-declaration of assets. He said the prosecution’s reference to a purported unexecuted contract was extraneous.

    Ogueju-Dike said his client was not aware of the charge on time and that he (Uzodinma) was currently outside the country on health ground.

    He prayed the court to adjourned the case to a later date to enable his client attend court.

    Ogueju-Dike undertook to ensure that Uzodinma was in court on the next adjourned date.

    Ruling, Justice Okon Abang said he would consider the passionate plea by lawyer to the defendant and his undertaking to produce the defendant in court by adjourning the case to a later date for him to attend court.

    Justice Abang said the prosecution was at liberty to repeat his application for a bench warrant against the defendant should he fail to attend court at the next adjourned date.

    The judge, who noted that no one is above the law, adjourned to April 18 for arraignment.

    Read Also: Ogun, Lagos to get Joint Development Commission – Abiodun

    The two-count charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/107/2018, pending against Uzodinma before the court, reads as follow:

    “That you, Senator Hope Uzodinma (M) on or about the 5th day of March 2018, being a public officer with the National Assembly Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, committed an offence to wit: refused to declare your assets without reasonable excuse and upon notice to declare your assets before the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Abuja, contrary to and punishable under S. 3 (3) (1) (a) of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provision) Act 2004.”

    “That you Senator Hope Uzodmma (M) on or about 5th day of March 2018 being a public officer that the National Assembly Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, committed an offence to wit: neglected to declare your assets without reasonable excuse and upon notice to declare your assets before the Special Presidential Investigation Panel for the Recovery of Public Property, Abuja, contrary to and punishable under S. 3 (3) (1) (a) of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provision) Act 2004.”

  • Nwosu, Uzodinma, others sign peace pact

    Security agencies in Imo State on Tuesday politicians ahead of the general elections to desist from acts capable of jeopardising public peace and security.

    The warning was coming at the heels of a peace Parley organised for politicians by the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC).

    The Security Chiefs warned that any politician caught inciting violence in the state during and after the elections will be severely dealt with in accordance with the law.

    Meanwhile the governorship candidates of the Action Alliance (AA), Uche Nwosu; All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator Hope Uzodinma; People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Emeka Ihedioha;  Change Advocacy Party (CAP)  Ikenna Emmanuel; Young Progressive Party (YPP)  Linus Okorie and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Ifeanyi Araraume, among others signed agreement to be of peaceful conduct during the election.

    Addressing the candidates shortly before the signing of the Agreement witnessed by security chiefs, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), religious leaders and journalists, Commissioner of Police, Dasuki Galadanchi, urged the politicians to play by the rules and jettison all forms of violence.

    Read Also: Imo: Uzodinma, Araraume boycott Peace Parley

    According to him, the state has witnessed relative peace when compared to others Federation, as a result of the “cooperation and support of the people of the state”.

    He said: “You will agree with me that this hard earned peace and tranquility we enjoy and experience in Imo State should be guarded jealously, thus, we have no other option than to ensure this endures before, during and after the elections”.

    Resident Electoral Commissioner Francis Ezeonu assured INEC is prepared to conduct credible election that will meet the aspirations of all the parties.

    He restated his commitment to provide level playing ground for all the political parties participating in the election while pleading with the candidates to abide by rules and regulations guiding the election.

    Meanwhile, fake soldiers escorting and unnamed politician were paraded at the event at the State Police Headquarters.

    Parading the suspects, who were fully dressed in military fatigue, during a peace parley for candidates, the Commander 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, Brigadier General H. I Bature, disclosed that fake soldiers have infiltrated the state to cause chaos during the general elections.

    He stated desperate politicians have equipped hoodlums with army uniforms and weapons to perpetrate violence in the state, warning all those involved in the ignoble act will be fished out and dealt with.

     

  • Imo: Uzodinma, Araraume boycott Peace Parley

    …as Nwosu, others sign pact

     

    The governorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Hope Uzodinma and that of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Ifeanyi Araraume, Tuesday boycotted the signing of a Peace pact by candidates participating in the general election in Imo State.

    Also absent at the event organised by the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) was a former governor of the State and candidate of the Accord party, Ikedi Ohakim.

    Meanwhile the governorship candidates of the Action Alliance (AA), Uche Nwosu and that of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Emeka Ihedioha, signed the Agreement alongside other candidates including Ikenna Emmanuel of the Change Advocacy Party (CAP), Linus Okorie of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), among others.

    Addressing the candidates shortly before the signing of the Agreement which was witnessed by Security Chiefs, Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), religious leaders and journalists, the State Commissioner of Police, Dasuki Galadanchi, urged the politicians to play by the rules and jettison all forms of violence.

    According to him, the State has witnessed relative peace when compared to other states in the Federation, as a result of the “cooperation and support of the people of the state”.

    He said, “You will agree with me that this hard earned peace and tranquility we enjoy and experience in Imo State should be guarded jealously, thus, we have no other option than to ensure this endures before, during and after the elections”.

    In his brief speech, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Pro. Francis Ezeonu assured that INEC is prepared to conduct credible election that will meet the aspirations of all the parties

    He restated his commitment to provide level playing ground for all the political parties participating in the election, while pleading with the candidates to abide by rules and regulations guiding the election.

  • Breaking: Imo APC expels Uzodinma

    The Imo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress ( APC ), on Thursday, expelled its governorship candidate, Senator Hope Uzodinma over alleged anti-party activities.

    The state Chairman of the party, Hon Daniel Nwafor, who announced the expulsion during a media briefing at the party’s secretariat, said that the action became necessary to save the party from disintegration.

    According to him, it has been established that the APC governorship candidate is sponsoring opposition candidates against the party’s candidates in the state, adding that such action is capable of ruining the chances of the APC in the elections.

    “Senator Hope has been sponsoring the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Senatorial candidate, Senator Osita Izunaso as against the APC Senatorial candidate in Imo West, Governor Rochas Okorocha, he has also been running parallel Exco in his Omuma Ward and issuing party cards without recourse to party Exco”, Nwafor alleges.

    Read Also: APC enraged over PDP’s N388m U.S. lobbying deal

    A statement jointly signed by the Chairman (Daniel Nwafor) and the Secretary, Hon Obioma Ireagwu, reads “this is to inform you that the All Progressives Congress (APC) Omuma Ward of Oru East Local Government Area in Imo State has expelled Senator Hope Uzodinma from the party due to certain inordinate and anti-party activities perpetrated by him and his cohorts.

    “The Imo State Working Committee (SWC) of our great party has examined the processes and procedures of the sanction on Senator Hope Uzodinma by his Ward as affirmed by the Local Government organ of the party in Oru East. Conclusively, the State Working Committee satisfied with the procedures and decision of Omuma Ward, hereby affirm the expulsion order as well”.

    Further justifying the expulsion, Nwafor submitted that “we are saving the party, we have an election in three weeks time and we cannot allow our governorship candidate to be sponsoring opposition candidates. We will no longer recognize Senator Hope Uzodinma as our governorship candidate because he is no longer a member of our party”.

    He continued that, “we will not allow one candidate to jeopardize the chances of our other candidates who are vying for various positions across the state. We have communicated the National Working Committee of our party on our decision and we have also instructed all APC members in the state not to have anything to do with Senator Hope Uzodinma and his ambition forthwith”.

  • Okorocha missing as Imo APC guber campaign kicks off

     

    • Oshiomhole accuse Imo Gov of anti-party

    The governorship campaign of the All Progressives Congress(APC) kicked off on Friday in Owerri with Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha conspicuously missing.

    But the National Chairman Comrade Adams Oshiomole led other national officers of the party to the event.

    Members of the State Executive Committee of the party were also absent at the scantily attended ceremony.

    The usual crowd that attends APC gatherings in the state was missing as only supporters of the governorship candidate, Hope Uzodinma, gathered at his Campaign Headquarters along Okigwe road where the event held.

    Oshiomhole, who has been in a running battle with the Imo governor, accused him (Okorocha) of frustrating the APC candidate, an action he described as anti-party.

    He stated by denying the APC candidate use of the stadium, the governor has shown he is working against the party.

    But the Okorocha swiftly described claim he locked the stadium as false.

    Oshiomole said the stadium was built with tax payers’ money and not Okorocha’s personal fund, recalling how Okorocha cried out in 2011 when the then governor, Ikedi Ohakim, stopped him from using the stadium for his campaign.

    Oshiomhole also accused the governor of neglecting the people of the state with his style of governance.

    He said: “Let me appreciate the members of the National Working Committee for coming to join the governorship candidate of our party, we approach with one simple message.

    “It is a message of Hope, not a message of lamentation. I want you to listen because for me campaign is not about entertainment.

    “Today, we have come to deliver the message of Hope although things have gone wrong in the past.

    “We have come to return the government of Imo state to the great people of Imo state.

    Read Also: Dickson proposes N275.8bn budget for 2019

    “We have come to tell you that we have respect for you people.  The next governor in the person of Senator Hope Uzodimma will restore all that have been destroyed.

    “Please Imo people cool temper. Today is a day to pass a message of Hope. Today we desire to talk to the young people especially to my fellow colleagues the civil servants.

    “The days are gone for a governor who will look at people and say there is money to do other things and not to pay civil servants”.

    He went on: “I want to tell you that those governors that were given money including the governor of Imo state that did not use it for that purpose will be retrieved.

    “Buhari has adopted Hope Uzodimma as the governor of Imo state. I want you to go and tell people what I said.

    “Nigeria needs to produce political leaders that have political concentration.

    “How will you believe that an APC governor will lock the stadium against an APC, governorship candidate?

    “It is the tax payers’ money that is used to build that stadium and not his personal money”.