Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has inaugurated a fact-finding Committee charged with the responsibility of investigating the prolonged insecurity and socio-economic devastation that have bedeviled Okigwe Zone for sometime now, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to rebuild the area and bring back peace, justice and enduring security.
Members of the Committee include the Prelate Emeritus of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Most Rev Dr. Samuel Uche (Chairman), foremost academic and legal luminary, Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri (Secretary), Anglican Archbishop of the Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Dr. David Onuoha (member), Monsignor John Iwe (member) and HRH Eze Iheanaco Ndukwe (member).
Other members are the Commissioner of Police, Imo State, and a Representative of the Department of State Services ( DSS).
Speaking at the inauguration held at the New Exco Chambers, weekend, the Governor who described the situation in Okigwe as “deeply troubling,” regretted that “violence and deprivation have persisted for more than four years.”
“This area has been a theatre of unfair violence, where lives have been lost and property destroyed. The situation demands urgent and honest intervention.”
Uzodimma emphasised that reconstruction alone would not solve the problem without accountability. “We can rebuild houses and reconstruct roads, but without justice, our efforts will be in vain,” he stated, urging the Committee to uncover the root causes of the crisis to deter reoccurrence.
He charged members of the Committee whom he said were selected for their integrity and track record, to engage directly with affected communities and assess their needs in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture and housing.
“The era of silence and suffering in Okigwe is over,” the governor declared and assured the Committee of full government support, including security backup where necessary.
While he advised the Committee to fish out those who worked both directly, indirectly and remotely to cause devastation in Okigwe, the Governor also encouraged residents to share information freely with the Committee members.
He was emphatic about youths who were drawn into violence in the zone, and promised support for rehabilitation and reintegration.
The Committee is expected to submit its preliminary report within 30 days.
Governor Uzodimma said the report will form the basis for a comprehensive rehabilitation package and peace-building programme for Okigwe.
In his acceptance speech on behalf of the Committee, the Chairman, Most Rev Dr. Samuel Uche, assured that his members will swing into action immediately and deliver results swiftly.
He reiterated that his members are tested and trusted persons whose sense of character, work ethics and love for community are impeccable.
Dr. Uche congratulated Governor Uzodimma over his six years anniversary, and for the visible improvements in security throughout the State, especially in Okigwe zone.
“I drove home after Sunday Service in about 40 minutes. Everywhere was calm, unlike before. This shows that peace is gradually returning,” he had reflected on his recent trip to his Ihube community in Okigwe.
Describing his appointment as a significant privilege with serious responsibility, he emphasised the necessity for “wisdom, accuracy, diligence, and resourcefulness” in tackling the Committee’s challenges.
“We are here to serve the people and do what is right,” he affirmed.
The Prelate expressed gratitude for the Governor’s support, promising that the Committee will not shy away from seeking guidance when needed.
He announced plans to temporarily relocate to Imo State from Lagos to facilitate effective engagement.
“I will literally relocate and live close to the people so we can do this work properly,” he added, noting that improved security allows for the decision.
While reflecting on his own past security challenges, including a kidnapping incident, Dr. Uche thanked the Governor and the community for their support.
He further lauded the choice of Prof Obiaraeri as Secretary to the Committee and assured of members collaboration with local political leaders to ensure success.
“We have studied our terms of reference and will align our work strictly with the assignment given to us. By God’s grace, our work will be commendable and a reference point,” he concluded, reaffirming the committee’s commitment to delivering impactful results.
The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, the Senator representing Okigwe Zone, Sen. Patrick Ndubueze, Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, members of the Imo State Expanded Executive Council and other stakeholders from Okigwe attended the inauguration ceremony.
*Oguwike Nwachuku
Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser Media to the Governor
