ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Governor Hope Uzodimma has said that justice, inclusion, and consensus remain fundamental to sustaining peace and political stability in Imo State, warning against any form of “hostile takeover of power” in the state.
Uzodimma spoke while addressing members of the Imo State Council of Elders at the Government House in Owerri, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance.
Reflecting on the political crisis that led to his emergence in 2020, the governor said the experience exposed the dangers of exclusion in governance.
He disclosed that a panel he constituted, headed by Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Anthony Obinna, identified marginalisation as a key driver of instability in the state.
“Anyone denied justice may not be committed to peace. We will eliminate any type of hostile takeover by building consensus among ourselves,” Uzodimma said.
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He described the Imo State Council of Elders as “the conscience of the state,” noting that it was established by law to guide governance beyond any sitting administration.
The governor also revealed plans to amend the law establishing the council to strengthen its authority, including provisions to sanction erring members.
On the Imo Charter of Equity recently presented to him by the council, Uzodimma expressed satisfaction that it promotes equitable distribution of key political offices among the state’s three senatorial zones; Okigwe, Owerri, and Orlu.
He urged political actors to respect zoning arrangements and avoid actions capable of deepening divisions within the state.
“The Charter of Equity has come to stay. We must listen to the voice of reason, support one another, and work towards a stable political future for Imo State,” he stated.
Uzodimma added that his administration would sustain consultations with stakeholders across the three zones to strengthen consensus and promote lasting peace.
Earlier, Chairman of the Council, Cletus Ilomuanya, called for full implementation of the Charter of Equity, stressing that it must go beyond rhetoric.
He urged the government to ensure fairness in appointments, distribution of projects, and access to opportunities across all parts of the state, noting that such measures would foster inclusiveness and strengthen unity.