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  • IMO STATE TRANSPORT: NURTW Commends Gov Uzodinma, Hon. Osuji .

    IMO STATE TRANSPORT: NURTW Commends Gov Uzodinma, Hon. Osuji .

    ….Pledges to reciprocate his good gesture by reducing transport fare transport fare.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    Following the call by the Member Representing Isiala Mbano State Constituency for members of National Union Of Road Transport lmo State Chapter to reduce transport fares inorder for traders to reduce prices of commodities in the lmo state,has continued to receive massive commendation from within the state and beyond.

    To this end, the Executives of lmo state chapter of National Union Of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) paid a courtesy visit to the Member Representing lsiala Mbano State Constituency,Hon Sam Osuji to commend him for taking the bold step and patriotic move to call for the reduction of transport fares.

    The State Chairman of NURTW, Comrade Sam Ude in his speech, described the Lawmaker as a “Voice”, stating that the Lawmaker is the first and only House Committee Chairman on Transport in the history of lmo State House of Assembly who has ever made such call.

    Comrade Ude, went further to pledge the union in the state would continue to work closely with the state government, through the transport sector so as to ensure that the economy of the state becomes better and stronger, while appreciating the Governor for taking steps to make the business environment more friendly, easier and safer for transporters.

    ” Our Governor is NURTW friendly. He has solved the major challenges facing transporters in the state, having fixed all the major roads, thereby saving cost for transporters, and indeed, lives. Road accidents have reduced considerably. We have noted your request and will respond more practically. In two weeks time, the NURTW will organize a statewide workshop to sensitize all our members in the 27 LGAs. It is our turn to reciprocate the good gestures of His Excellency,all the Executives of NURTW in the state, including the three zonal Executives are in this meeting “.he stated.

    The NURTW boss also lauded the collaborative efforts between the State Government and the Private sector in advancing geometric economic growth in the state, including sometimes providing free fuel for transporters.

    However, he complained of the high cost of fuel, which stands at between N700 and N720 per litre, describing it as unfair.

    According to him,”when $1 was exchanging for N1850, PMS(Fuel) was being sold for between N700 and N720 per litre,now that the Naira is gaining strength against the Dollar, the same PMS (Fuel) has remained at the same price. The Federal Government should help us by reducing the price of fuel. I want to also equally appeal to the Federal Government, through the Nigeria Customs Service to reduce the high cost of import duties on vehicles and other goods imported into the country. However, we are going to pledged out by reaching out to our members to appreciate and compliment the efforts of government by effecting reduction in transport fares,since the commuters are our brothers and sisters as well”.he submitted.

    Responding,Hon Sam Osuji, who is the House Committee Chairman on Transport, thanked the NURTW for the courtesy visit which shows that they have the people of lmo state at heart, while appealing to them once again to reduce transport fares, now that the nation’s currency, the Naira, has continued to gain strength against other currencies, especially, the dollar.

    . Hon Osuji explained that the downward movement of the dollar (from N1850 to N1150 for $1) has presented an irrevocable opportunity for transport fares and the prices of essential commodities to reduce, thereby offering great sign of relief to Imo citizens, who have been facing the economic fallout of recent times.

    The Isiala Mbano lawmaker further said that as soon as transport fares are reduced, other economic variables would come into play, thereby, reducing prices of commodities in the market.

    He reminded members of the transport union that the State Government led by His Excellentcy Governor Hope Uzodimma, having made the Imo Environment business friendly, by constructing quality and durable roads across the state, which have considerably reduced motor accidents, saving lives of drivers, saving lives of passengers, safeguarding goods and less frequenting mechanic workshop for repairs etc, that transporters (and traders alike) ought to compliment these efforts by reducing transport fares.

    In his words,”This meeting is sequel to my earlier Press Statement after interacting with the Press, calling for price reduction for commodities and transport fares.

    Today, I have followed the call up by inviting you, the members of the Imo State Chapter of NURTW, for an interface.

    Despite the reduction in exchange rate, with our Naira gaining more strength, transport fares and prices of other commodities have remained high.”

    ” I am calling on you to appreciate the efforts of His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodimma by reducing transport fares. If Allen Onyema could do that to compliment the efforts of the federal government, which tirelessly worked hard, through strategic policies, procedures and actions, to strengthen the Naira at the exchange rate market, you too can do same, to compliment the efforts of the Shared Prosperity 3R Government that has tirelessly worked hard, through strategic policies, procedures and actions that have given you, transporters, quality and durable roads across the state. Again, through strategic foreign bank partnership by Governor Uzodimma, billions of dollars worth of investments are already on the way to the state”.he stated.

    Hon Sam Ikechukwu Osuji, who is also a member of the Committee on Agriculture went further to state that farmers after harvesting their farm produce and would need transportation to move them from the farm to the market.

    “If the transport fare is high, the farmers would naturally add it to what they would eventually sell to consumers, who may be food vendors, and who would go and prepare it to become cooked food and thereafter sell at high cost. Let us stop this trend. There is a reason why I am the Chairman of House Committee On Transport. If we succeed, Glory be to God. But if we fail, we will face the consequences. Let us use our positions to save the situation for our fellow Imo citizens”.he stated.

    He also commended the leadership of NURTW in the State led by Comrade Sam Ude, for coming to interface with him and his Committee on the subject matter.
    In a vote of thanks, Comrade Chief Emma Ugwoegbulam (Emma Nkirisi)thanked the Chairman of the House Committee on Transport, Hon Sam Osuji, for his steadfastness and desire to have a better society, describing the move as bold and commendable.

    He also appreciated Governor Uzodimma for his sacrifices, assuring that NURTW would make an official statement, in line with the State government’s directive.

  • Hike ln Foodstuff: Lawmaker Urges Transporters To Reduce Fare.

    Hike ln Foodstuff: Lawmaker Urges Transporters To Reduce Fare.

    …Says Exchange rate is reducing.

    Emmanuel Clement, Owerri.

    The rate at which prices of foodstuff continue to rise has generated a serious concern from citizens. This has become a topic of discussion by many as there is fear that acute hunger would persist, to this end the Member Representing Isiala Mbano State Constituency in the Imo State House Of Assembly, Hon Sam Ikechukwu Osuji has charged traders in the State to compliment the efforts of the Shared Prosperity 3R Administration led by His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodimma by reducing the prices of commodities in the market, especially now that the exchange rate of the naira has considerably improved against other major currencies, especially, the dollars and pounds sterling.

    Hon Osuji who made the remark in his office on Monday,while addressing members of the press said traders, importers and other business and economic actors in Imo State should consider the commendable performance of the naira against the dollar, in the last one month, by reducing the prices of goods, especially, essential commodities in the market.

    Read also:Gov Soludo Host Anambra Muslim Community Leaders, Break Ramadan Fast Together

    The vibrant lawmaker, who is the House Committee Chairman On Transport equally appealed to transporters in the State to bring down transport fares, arguing that, with the current realities on the performance of the naira against the dollar, the prices of imported spare parts ought not to be expensive again and this should reflect on transport fares.

     Local women selling fresh fish at seafood market in Owerri

    He said” The major reason why prices of commodities went up in the market was because of the high exchange rate of the naira, particularly, against the dollar, which exchanged for as much as N1850 to $1. But today, the Naira has gained more value and is exchanging for about N1,150 to $1. ”

    “This should reflect on the prices of commodities in the market and transport fares. Our traders and business actors should be considerate, especially, now that His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodimma has concluded arrangement to invest over $1.5 Billion in the state, through Afrexim Bank, which will definitely enhance the quality of life we live, enhance the quality of education and quality of infrastructure, including creating massive employment opportunities for millions of Imo State youths”.he stated

    Hon Osuji who is also the Vice Chairman Of House Committee On Environment, therefore urged traders and transporters in the state to quickly align the prices of their commodities and transports fares with the current improved exchange rate of the naira, insisting that the ordinary masses in the state should have a breath of fresh air and that Imo State environment is business friendly,so he can’t fathom why traders cannot reciprocate this good gesture by ameliorating the sufferings of the masses through the reduction of prices of commodities.

    The Isiala Mbano Representative thereafter appealed to the leadership of traders Association in all the markets across the state,the lmo state chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers to prevail on their members to, without further delay, bring down the prices of their commodities and reduce transport fares, in the interest of the downtrodden and in appreciation for the State Government’s efforts in the development of the state, in all the sectors of the economy.

     

  • Ideato South: Lawmaker Assures Constituent Of More Constituency Projects

    Ideato South: Lawmaker Assures Constituent Of More Constituency Projects

    …says he will not disappoint ldeato South LGA.
    ….Ideato South leaders urges Governor to intervene in the kidnap of Rtd Major General Duru.

    Emmanuel Clement.

    The Member Representing Ideato South State Constituency at the lmo State House of Assembly,Rt Hon Engr Johnson Iheonukara Duru has pledged not to disappoint his constituents,as he has promised to use his second term as a lawmaker to consolidate on people oriented programmes for Ideato South, such as quality bills and motions, constituency projects, facilitating employment and tertiary institution admission opportunities for Ideato indigenes etc.


    The Lawmaker stated this in “Thank you ceremony” held at the Local Government Headquarters Dikenafai , ldeato South to appreciate the people of ldeato South local government area of lmo state for reelecting him into the lmo State House of Assembly.

    Hon Duru thanked the people for finding him worthy and reelecting him back to House of Assembly, noting that he is working hard to ensure that matters that concerns his constituency is always heard abd address at the floor of house.

    ” It is with a heart full of immense gratitude to God almighty that l welcome all of you to this event,l thank in a special way, those of you who inspite of your tight schedule you still honored me. It is an emotional reminder of tough road we traveled to get justice,l equally appreciate the judiciary for being the last hope of the common man,we must also appreciate and recognize the hand of God in the restoration of my mandate, which you all freely gave to me”


    ” We are celebrating victory for the people of ldeato South,l have no enemy,l may have offended some people and many may have also offended me, however l have forgiven all and l apologize to all those that l may have offended. We are one and we only have ldeato South as our own. This is the time to unite and build a more formidable ldeato South especially now we an amazing daughter,who is the first lady of lmo state ”

    “His Excellency Senator Hope Uzodinma has done tremendously well, therefore let us continue to support him whether you voted him or not so that we can together bring ldeato South to the front burner, which l am already doing by sponsoring and co-sponsoring bills for the development of Ideato South local government, from rehabilitation of roads to erosion menace and our Electricity powerplant rehabilitation and the Governor has assured me that ldeato South will receive accelerated development attention, note that your concerns are also my concern”he submitted

    The ceremony which was attended by who is who in Ideato politics across political party lines, sociocultural organizations, market unions, transport unions, student unions etc, was indeed a festival of praises, both to Hon Engr Johnson Duru and to His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Executive Governor Of Imo State, in consideration of their respective roles in the development of Ideato South, Ideato Nation and the larger Imo State.

    Earlier, the immediate past Sole Administrator of Ideato South Local Government Area, Hon Pastor Bede Ikeaka, welcomed the mammoth crowd, but said the ceremony was not a political party affair, rather, was a gathering of all Ideato South indigenes, who came to listen to their son and their representative,Hon Engr Johnson Duru.

    Contributing, the APC Apex Leader Of Ideato South, Chief Humphrey Ikeaka appreciated Hon Engr Johnson Duru for his programmes for the local government, describing him as a worthy Ideato son who means well. He also commended the lawmaker for giving 25 Ideato indigenes political appointments.

    Read also:Murder of 38yrs Ubanna: Activist hopeful justice will be served

    The opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, Apex leader in the local government, Hon Chief Bonny Ebili, Odokaraomee of Ideato Nation, also appreciated Hon Engr Johnson Duru for his giant efforts to reposition Ideato South for good.

    In his words, he said, “Pajay respects me and I respect him. This gathering is apolitical and I attended because he invited me to come. As a lawmaker, he is doing well. The Governor is equally doing well. However, I have only one request to make : “I want our illustrious son, Rtd Major General R. C. Duru, who was kidnapped some months ago to be rescued from his abductors”.

    Read also:WHY IMO STATE SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO PRODUCE THE NEXT VICE CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA NSUKKA (UNN), PART ONE

    The Apex Leader of the Opposition Labour Party in Ideato South, Hon Barrister C. O. Duru congratulated Hon Engr Johnson Duru for bringing all of them together to celebrate, irrespective of political party affiliation, describing the action as that of an emerging leader with foresight. He also aligned himself with all the contributions of Hon Chief Bonny Ebili.

    While Dr Chris Eke described Hon Johnson Duru as a lawmaker who plays politics without bitterness, the Woman Leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC in the local government, Mrs Nneka Ndukwu, described the lawmaker as a leader with a golden heart. She also appreciated His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma, for his giant strides.

    The event was graced by many political actors from APC, PDP and the Labour Party, including members of the Oganihu Organization, Former Development Centre Coordinators, Community President Generals, Hon Chief Bon Ohiri, Chief Akwaaakwuru, Chief Ikechukwu Okpara, Chief Iyke Uzoma, Chief Ebere Kpakpando, Hon Barrister Chidi Nwankata Senior Legislative Assistant/General Duties to the Ideato South lawmaker and hosts of other dignitaries.

  • Murder of 38yrs Ubanna: Activist hopeful justice will be served

    Murder of 38yrs Ubanna: Activist hopeful justice will be served

    By Joy Kalu, Owerri

    An advocate of protection of human rights who has been facilitating the case and the Executive Director of Grooming Leadership Network Amb Okey J-T Anyanwu informed that justice will be served.

    In a document presented to the Investigator news, he said, though he is not quite at home with legal interpretation of the No-Case Submission, however, he has every reason to believe that it means the Suspect has submitted himself guilty, as he has nothing to defend himself with.

    According to him, ‘I have great confidence in the Presiding Judge who has displayed intelligence and high wisdom since this case began, would certainly uphold justice. It is equally important to appreciate the judiciary as Social Architect that would not permit a criminal to escape unpunished or provide a clause which could promote criminality, especially with the prevailing and increasing level violent crimes in Nigeria in general and Imo state in particular’.

    Amb Okey further buttressed that marshalling out a deserved justice and punishment against crimes and criminals are surest deterrents to continuous and increasing spate of killings, kidnappings, and other violent crimes that have bedeviled our nation. It is a common maxim that Justice for One is Justice for All.

    It would be recalled that on Friday 15th of March 2024, the Owerri High Court in Imo State of Nigeria witnessed continued hearing on the murder of Late Engr. Ubanna Henry Iroegbu, the 38yrs graduate of Agricultural Engineering from Umuoma Onicha, in Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA of Imo State. It would be recalled from previous reports on this criminal matter that witnessed during the prosecution proceedings, informed the court how this promising Late Engr. Ubanna, a 2019 Agricultural Engineering graduate of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike was gruesomely shot to death on the 28th of December, 2021. On that ill-fated day, he was said to had gone to Umueleagwa in the same Onicha clan of Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA, following a distress call from his junior sister Mrs Ugomma Judith Aguwa- Nee Iroegbu complained of an attack and threats to kill her by one Chief Michael Ugorji Aguwa an in-Law (brother to Ugomma’s father-in-law).

    According to the police investigation report and confirmed by eye-witnesses’ account, Mrs. Ugomma Aguwa whose husband Mr. Celestine Aguwa is resident in United Kingdom, came home from her base in Port Harcourt for the 2021 Christmas celebration. In the morning hours of that 28th day of December 2021, Chief Michael Ugorji Aguwa, an uncle to her husband, attacked and further threaten to shoot her to death when next he sets eyes on her, for a yet to be justified reason.

    Late Engr Ubanna Henry Iroegbu, who went on an arbitration mission to Chief Michael’s house, ended up a dead corpse out of gun shot inside the suspect’s compound. Besides his earlier threats, eye-witnesses, including Chief Ugorji’s personal guest and his brother, clearly indicts him as the murderer. These accusing fingers are in addition to other accounts testifying of seeing Chief Michael Ugorji Aguwa openly shooting sporadically to scare away onlookers and sympathizers from apprehending him or rescuing the dying Engr. Ubanna Henry Iroegbu.

    “Following an earlier closure of prosecution to enable the suspect commence his defense, resumption of proceedings on that Friday 15th of March 2024 witnessed the Defense Counsel presenting and adopting a ‘No Case Address’. The Counsel insisted that the presiding Judge should discard and consider all accusations and witnesses against his client (Suspect) in respect of Late Engr Ubanna, Henry Iroegbu’s death as mere speculations”.

    “According to the Defense Counsel, who did not deny cross-examining the witnesses, the Suspect (Chief Michael Aguwa) being at the point and time of the incident with a gun and shooting as presented by the witnesses, implies no clear evidence that the suspect shot directly at Late Ubanna or was responsible for his death. It is therefore mere speculation that having a gun and shooting makes his client the murderer of the deceased, Defense Counsel submitted.
    The Prosecuting Counsel in his response, reminded the court the all accounts from eye witnesses as presented in the court during prosecution, clearly pointed accusing fingers on Michael Ugorji Aguwa as being responsible for Late Ubanna’s untimely death”.

    “According to the Prosecutor, this is with particular reference to PW-1 who was a personal guest to the suspect and was physically present in his (suspect’s) house when and where this murder was committed. This witness presented enough eye witness account to convince court that the suspect was the only person holding a gun within his premises and at the time of the incident”. He equally substantiated his witness by stated that he saw the suspect bring out his gun and from beside him (witness) shot. This position according to the Prosecuting Counsel is collaborated by other witnesses who saw the suspect with the gun and shooting sporadically to scare people away after the deceased has fallen from the gun shoot and was bleeding.

    “Further clear evidence was from Mr Edmund Aguwa a senior brother to the suspect, who personally admitted directing Late Engr. Ubanna Iroegbu to his younger brother’s house and heard his younger brother (Chief Michael Aguwa) ordering Late Ubanna to leave his compound or he (Michael) would shoot him (Ubanna) to death and nobody is capable of challenging his (Michael’s) action. Mr Edmund Aguwa further testified that the suspect has in the last decade being very notorious for brandishing his gun publicly and always when provoked to any slightest level, would threaten to shot someone”.

    “According to Mr. Edmund, he personally as his senior brother, has been living as a fugitive in his own compound after this his younger brother (Michael Ugorji Aguwa) has in December 2019, walked up to him (Edmund) before his (Edmund’s) wife, children and grandchildren and warned him to prepare himself and put his house in order, with a stern threat that he (Michael) would in December 2021 shot him (Edmund) to death and off-set the cost of the burial and would entertain no challenge from any quarter.”

    “Buttressing why the suspect has a case to answer, the Prosecutor reminded the court that the ‘No-Case Address’ by the Defense Counsel should be demised as derailing the cause of Justice, considering that it is tantamount to rubbishing all the testimonies from eye-witnesses against the suspect in the proceedings before the Judge”.

    “Equally, a No-case submission amounts to declaring that a civilian should freely possess gun, publicly use same to threaten and harass fellow citizen. This is most worrisome with the high level of insecurity in the country. Moreover, in this particular case there was an earlier threat to kill with a gun by the suspect according to witnesses, later this same suspect had a visitor die by gun shot inside his compound, there is therefore enough cause to the case for the suspect to answer before the law”.

    “This No-Case Address should vehemently be discarded as unacceptable, considering that there are no contradictions between the incident, witnesses and evidences presented before court”.

    The deceased was confirmed to have visited the suspect’s house on that 28th of December! 2021, died of gun-shot inside the suspect’s compound with only the suspect being in possession of a gun at that point and time of the murder. This is confirmed by with the witness accounts of two medical experts certifying that the deceased died as a result of gun shot through his scapula or shoulder’, the Prosecuting Counsel submitted.

    According to Amb. Anyanwu, the Presiding Judge at this point called for closure of further arguments, reminding both Counsels that they have all made written submissions that he (The Judge) needs to study. He therefore adjourned the matter till 6th of June, 2024 for further deliberation and ruling.

    The general public, Ahiara Mbaise Catholic Community, Onicha clan and other ardent followers of this high profile murder case, which has been on since January 2022 would patiently wait for further updates come June 6th, 2024. Certainly, so many questions would meet answers before the Presiding Judge when both the Prosecuting and Defense Counsels meet on the next adjourned date.

    Read also:Wrestling: Explosive Professional Storms Lagos, Friday 

    Meanwhile, when questioned on their expectation from the proceedings so far, the bereaved family expressed that this murder case is a very straight one, with the murder clearly identified and they have very strong faith in God to grant them justice.

  • lmo : I Will Do Everything Possible To See A United, Prosperous APC In Isu LGA—— Hon Ozurumba Assures.

    lmo : I Will Do Everything Possible To See A United, Prosperous APC In Isu LGA—— Hon Ozurumba Assures.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    The Member Representing Isu State Constituency in the Imo State House Of Assembly, Hon Barrister Emeka Ozurumba, has assured the All Progresses Congress, APC, Party Executive in Isu local government area of support, pledging to ensure a more united and prosperous party in the LGA.

    Hon Emeka Ozurumba gave the assurance when he received LGA and Ward Executives of APC when they paid him a courtesy visit in his office at the Imo State House of Assembly complex.

    The Lawmaker who expressed joy to receive the party executives in his office.stated that he would ensure to make the people of Isu proud through productive legislation, while pledging that he has come to the House of Assembly to work for the betterment of everybody in the local government.

    Hon Ozurumba who is also the House Committee Chairman On Labour/Productivity, Civil Service And Pension stated that he would ensure to restore peace, carry everybody along, in decision making, attract more constituency projects,provide job opportunities in the State civil service, in human capital developments and giving out empowerments.

    ” I am here to serve and make you proud. Few days ago, I appointed 60 Special Assistants, with designated offices. I am paying them from my pocket. Before my inauguration as Honourable Member, I established a formidable income yielding platform that would fund all my projects, promises and pledges. My personal commitment and bond is that I will serve you with all my heart “he stated.

    He thereafter beckoned on the Party Executives to join hands with him to build Isu of their collective aspiration and dream,noting that the fatherly disposition of His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodimma,has selflessly repositioned the State for good.

    Speaking earlier, the LGA Party Chairperson, Hon Lillian Obi congratulated Hon Ozurumba on his inauguration as the lawmaker representing Isu State Constituency,describing the lawmaker as a man of zeal.

    According to her”God’s time is the best. We have come to appreciate you and your position, which is Isu mandate. You have also set the ball rolling, with the appointment of 60 Special Assistants. We are very grateful,but please, I urge you to remember the party executives, both at the LGA level and at the Ward level. Consult us in all your decision making plans and we will assist you to succeed, to the glory of God Almighty “she submitted.

    In another development,the party executives visited the Apex leader Hon Chief Cosmos Maduba to express their appreciation for the role he played to ensure victory, both for the Assembly seat and Governorship election in November 2023.

    They also thanked him for his impact in Human Capital Development in the local government.

    Responding, Hon Maduba thanked the Party Executives for stopping by to honour him, before continuing their journey to see Hon Emeka Ozurumba.

    He advised them to shun grudges, but concentrate in making APC stronger, better and in every home in Isu LGA, while assuring them that their labour would not be in vain, if they remained steadfast and hopeful for better days.

     

  • Extolling a woman with heart of human kindness

    Extolling a woman with heart of human kindness

    “Hon. Chika Uju radiates conviviality, humility and to say the least, her sense of humor is highly therapeutic.”

    By Joy Kalu, Owerri

    Hon. Lady Chika Uju is another woman that my searchlight has caught, caught in the very act of exuding rare display of heart of love, kindness and generosity.

    Hon. Chika Uju radiates conviviality, humility and to say the least, her sense of humor is highly therapeutic.

    A politician, a community person, a grassroot mobilizer, human rights activist and most of all, a renowned Journalist who has paid her dues and put her voice in shaping the society for the better. If you call her ‘Change Agent’ , your description is not out of place.

    This is a woman that gives to her colleagues without minding how much it takes. She gives because she understands that it’s more blessed to give than to receive.

    My Lady as I call her, knows that a candle loses nothing in lighting up another candle and that a bit of fragrance sticks to the hand that gives rose.

    As the mother per excellence continue to support her colleagues, her community and generation by her generosity even in the midst of economic crunch, the benefits of giving will rest upon her

    The Goodwill of doling out support shall beget greater replenishment that opens more vista of generosity.

    Indeed, your hand of giving has become longer than receiving.

  • Imo 2027: Former Lawmaker throws weight behind Ihedioha

    Imo 2027: Former Lawmaker throws weight behind Ihedioha

    By Chigozie Uzosike, Owerri

    As the call on the former Governor of Imo State, Chief Emeka Ihedioha to reposition himself to become the next Governor come 2027, a former lawmaker that represented Ahiazu Mbaise State Constituency at the Imo State House of Assembly, Ichie Ken Agbim has thrown his support behind Ihedioha

    Speaking to the investigator news  in Owerri, Agbim noted that Ihedioha remains the only sellable, acceptable and capable politician that has the political clout to wrestle power from the ruling party come 2027.

    The former Minority Leader who brought dividend of democracy to the people of Ahiazu Mbaise, Agbim posited that as long as Imo State is concerned, Ihedioha is being widely craved for given the human and infrastructural development he brought to bear within the short time he held the mantle of leadership as the 6th democratically elected Governor of Imo State through his Rebuild Imo Agenda.

    Agbim said Ihedioha through his Treasury Single Account (TSA) blocked all avenue through which funds were stolen, adding that the process created an increase in IGR. He said that Ihedioha brought sanctity to the civil service system. He returned ISOPADEC to the people of Oguta and Ohaji/Egbema, among other achievements he brought in a short while as Governor.

    Read also:Ohanaeze Ndigbo: South East Governors Urged to End Insecurity

    Agbim noted that having looked around, he has discovered that one man stands unmatchable and remarkable, insisting that, the man remains Chief Emeka Ihedioha who over the years has remained resolute and dogged in the face of murky waters of politics.

    Hear Agbim “I will support my boss to actualize his governorship ambition in any party he intends to berth with, stressing that he will equally galvanize his supporters and political faithful to Ihedioha’s ambition”.

    He however urged Ihedioha to make wide consultation to enable him root with the acceptable and popular party adding that Imolites are waiting for him to garner their support for him.

    Read also:FG declares Friday, Monday public holidays

    Agbim stated that Ihedioha has all takes to bring the needed development using national and international contacts having been the Former Speaker of Representatives and held various positions, adding that Imo needs an individual with wider experience to fix the state.

  • Imo Assembly: Group Pledges Support to Hon.James Esile

    Imo Assembly: Group Pledges Support to Hon.James Esile

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    A dynamic Sociopolitical and Cultural Organization in Okigwe zone, Mezie Okigwe Forum has expressed satisfaction with the legislative representation by the member representing Onuimo State Constituency in the lmo State House of Assembly,Hon Chief James Uba Esile.

    The group disclosed this when officials of the organization, Onuimo chapter, paid a courtesy visit to the Lawmaker in his office.

    The Director of Mezie Okigwe Forum , Hon Lawrence Okoroafor, who led the delegation stated that Onuimo State Constituency has for the first time elected a people’s representative, who is all out to give his best for the good of the society.

    He further explained that Hon James Uba Esile has proved detractors wrong by fulfilling his campaign promises within a short time and has gone ahead to consolidate on his mandate by ensuring that Onuino remains in the front burner of Imo politics.

    In his words, Hon Okoroafor said, “we came to appreciate you for the way and manner you have been representing us. You have sponsored and co-sponsored Bills and Motions. You have drawn the attention of the State Government to the condition of our roads.”

    “Above all, we have noted your empowerment programmes in Onuimo, especially, when you purchase JAMB forms, WAEC forms and NECO forms for Onuimo secondary school students. Your recent appointment of 45 Special Assistants is also commendable. We have come to thank and wish you well, and to inform you to always count on our support anytime, any day. We are very excited with your commitment to make Onuimo great and better”.he submitted.

    Hon Okoroafor went further to described the forum as a platform that is meant to criticize, associate, checkmate and promote any leader in power, stating that the organization was formed three years ago by Chief Anayo Tony Martins and is domiciled in the 6 local government areas of Okigwe zone, with Hon Iyke Anomara as Director General.

    Lending her voice, the immediate past Coordinator for Onuimo South Development Centre, Lolo Olivia Ijeomah, thanked the leaders of Mezie Okigwe Forum Onuimo Chapter, for piloting the affairs in the local government with maturity, dignity and respect.

    She reassured them that Hon Chief James Uba Esile, is a man of integrity and credibility, and will not let the people of Onuimo down, but will continue to labour in the legislative house for the betterment of the constituency.

    “Hon James Uba Esile’s Office is always busy attending to people from Onuimo. If he is not doing well, people will not be coming to see him. He is a good man and straightforward, unlike others before him, l want to implore the recent appointed 45 Special Assistants by the lawmaker to approach their commitment and responsibilities with dignity and high sense of resourcefulness, hard work and integrity, so as to win the reassurance of greater opportunities and upliftments.”she stated.

    In his response, Hon Chief James Uba Esile thanked the group for coming, while assuring them that he would continue to do his best for the progress, peace, unity and development of Onuimo.

    The Lawmaker also informed them that he and other Lawmakers are doing very well because His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodimma gave them the enabling environment to function as lawmakers, without any interference or teleguiding their legislative activities, unlike what is happening in other states.

    He therefore urged them to continue to support the Shared Prosperity 3R Administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma.

    Read also:IMO: Lawmakers Commends Governor Uzodinma Over $1.5 Billion lnvestment From Afrexim Bank For Infrastructure Development Of the State.

    “Governor Hope Uzodimma is an Oracle of leadership. He is a man who has brought fresh air to the larger Imo Constituency. Let us make our voice stronger in supporting the governor. Good things are coming. Let us forget Politics of Opposition, and support the governor, because he loves Onuimo and lmo in general.”

    “My next empowerment, which is coming soon, will be for farmers, within my four years as Lawmaker representing Onuimo, I will not fail you, I will continue to work with you, and may Almighty God continue to be with us. “He submitted.

  • IMO: Lawmakers Commends Governor Uzodinma Over $1.5 Billion lnvestment From Afrexim Bank For Infrastructure Development Of the State.

    IMO: Lawmakers Commends Governor Uzodinma Over $1.5 Billion lnvestment From Afrexim Bank For Infrastructure Development Of the State.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    Impressed with the continued patriotic commitment to make Imo State the Economic Hub of the Southeast in Nigeria and for stability, the Imo State House Of Assembly has commended the State Governor, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma over his latest move to inject $1.5 Billion infrastructure investment from African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank).

    The Member Representing Ngor-Okpala State Constituency, Rt Hon Prince Obinna Egu, PhD,in a motion at the floor of the house,described the action of Governor Uzodimma as a move aimed to spur economic growth, infrastructure development and job creation in the State,and by extension, the entire Southeast.

    Hon Obinna Egu, who described Governor Uzodimma as a great thinker who thinks outside the box, stated that since Imo State has the highest gas deposit in the country, there would be industrial clusters, with the current initiative, and electricity challenges will be a thing of the past.

    According to him,the Governor’s goal is to accelerate the pace of development in Imo State and create opportunities for Imo people and its residents, hence partnering with Afrexim Bank which unveils a unique opportunity to achieve this goal that will unlock the full economic potential of the State” he stated.

    Hon Egu, who is the House Committee Chairman On Science And Technology went further to explain the benefits of the collaboration between the State Governor and Afrexim Bank, while expressing joy that his Constituency would be one of the beneficiaries, as the Sam Mbakwe Cargo Airport would be upgraded and that the Internally Generated Revenue base of the State would also experience an increase.
    “The collaboration holds immense promise for the prosperity and geometric growth of Imo State, economically, socially and competitively. This is a Win-win situation for Ndimo. We must also note that in the governor’s first term, he attracted a lot of investment from development partners, taking advantage of his background in the private sector.”

    Read also:Opinion:Remembering Gen. Tunde Idiagbon 25yrs after exit Published 2 days ago on March 24, 2024By Arowona Abdulazeez

    “We saw his commendable achievements in all sectors of the economy,during the inauguration for his second term, just two months ago, His Excellency assured us that he would intensify efforts to explore other avenues that would make the abundant human and natural resources in the state exploitable. Two months later, we have seen the ongoing construction of flyover in the State capital, the reconstruction of Imo International Conference Center, IICC, and the dredging of Urashi river into the Atlantic ocean. It is therefore evident that Governor Uzodimma’s second term administration is focussing more on the commitment to the vision of transforming the state into a beacon of hope and changing the economic landscape for good”.Hon Egu Submitted.

    In their various submissions,the lawmakers agreed that Governor Uzodimma, having put the state on the global map noted that if part of the investment coming from Afrexim Bank,is channeled into electricity generation,it would make the State to be in a position to sell to other States and for export.

    The lawmakers expressed happiness that His Excellency has shown serious commitment to transform the state’s vast arable land,gas reserves and many other natural resources into a multi-revenue streams and employment opportunities for some of the unemployed population.

  • Imo: Group Seeks Synergy with Lawmaker for Development of lmo State

    Imo: Group Seeks Synergy with Lawmaker for Development of lmo State

    — Urges Hon Ozurumba to be focused.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    ln continuation of the efforts of the leadership of a socio-cultural association to engender a more cordial relationship that will further bring development and growth to the people of Isu Local Government Area in Imo State, the Executive of Amurie Omanze Development Union, (AODU), Owerri branch, on Monday paid a courtesy visit to the Member Representing Isu State Constituency in the Imo State House Of Assembly, Hon Barrister Emeka Kingsley Ozurumba.

    The leader of the delegation and Chairman Amurie Omanze Development Union, Engr Bede Agara stated that their visit was to seek a collaboration between the Lawmaker and the people of lsu local government for greater development of the local government and lmo state at large.

    Engr. Agara expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the warm reception afforded him and his members. He equally showed his delight and that of other members of the union over the victory of the honourable lawmaker.


    He reminded Hon Barrister Ozurumba of his promise to join Amurie Omanze Development Union, Owerri branch, as soon as he was declared victorious and inaugurated as a lawmaker.

    The Chairman went further to commend his Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma on his giant strides in the state, especially on the nomination of an Isu Son as Commissioner designate, while calling for a synergy between Hon Barrister Emeka Ozurumba and Commissioner designate Modestus Osakwe for the greater Isu local government.

    Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Union, Mr Childera Mere advised the Honourable Member to always welcome and listen to every visitor to his office, praying that he would succeed as a lawmaker.

    Responding the lawmaker,the Member Representing Isu State Constituency,Hon. Barrister Emeka Ozurumba thanked the union for their visit which he described as rare, unique and privileged, as this is the first official visit by his town union since after his inauguration as a lawmaker few weeks ago.


    The lawmaker noted that the quality of love shown to him by the people of Amurie Omanze Development Union is unquantifiable,as he promised not to relent in giving good representation to the people.

    “This is homecoming for me. Pardon me, I want to express myself better. This visit is so important to me because you have made me proud. This visit to me is golden and I will go extra mile to show my appreciation. My doors are always open. I need your advice and input to succeed as your only voice in the Legislative Arm Of Government”.

    Hon Ozurumba continued, “within one week of my inauguration of representing you. My voice is always heard on matters of State importance. Although I am the last Honourable Member to be inaugurate but was made the chairman of the most important committee, which is Labour/Productivity, Civil Service And Pension. This simply means that I am here to protect your jobs and your labours will not be in vain. I will represent you with the fear of God”.he stated.

    The Chairman Labour and Productivity,Civil Service and Pension Committee noted that he has no reason not to work in synergy with his brother, Hon Modestus Osakwe, for the progress and development of Isu local government.

    While assuring them of his commitment towards the development of Amurie Development Union and lsu at large.

    “I am happy you all have accepted to work with me, for the progress and development of Isu State Constituency,l will continue to show immense support to any activity presented by Amurie Omanze Development Union, for the upliftment of Isu local government. Presently, I have started making moves to restore electricity in Amurie. I will soon join the Owerri branch of Amurie Development Union”,Emeka Ozurumba concluded.

    Other members of Amurie Omanze Development Union who were present at the occasion are Barrister Pius Nwanyanwu, Mr Dominic Okoro, Sir Hyginus Okpara.,Mr Ben Egbuchulam, Chief Uju Oleribe,Mrs Clementina Nwanyanwu,President of the Women’s Wing,Prof Peter Nkeonye,Hon Okey Uzoho,TPO Kingsley Uzor among others.