By Mandy Park
IMO State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has appealed to members of the Imo Elders Council not to ignore critical issues in the state but rather to wade into the matters affecting the progress and development of Imo, especially on insecurity.
He made the plea on Friday when he met with the leadership of the State’s Elders Council.
The governor urged the leadership and entire membership of the council to speak to political detractors and the opposition in the state to interrogate their consciences over what they are doing and how it will help Imo State to either grow and develop or stunt progress.
Welcoming the elders led by their chairman, HRH Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Uzodimma expressed gratitude for their visit this new year and assured them of his continued readiness to cooperate with them at all times.
He told them that the Executive Bill on the establishment of the body had long been signed into law, informing them that his administration is appreciative of their activities and contributions.
Governor Uzodimma said that his government is open to dialogue and discussions with whoever that claims to be aggrieved “as long as the person or group comes up with what will move the state forward to the benefit of Imo people.”
He assured of the readiness of his government to restore order, repair dilapidated infrastructure and ensure peace and security of lives and property “as the sole responsibility of any government.” He however bemoaned the situation where none of the seven oil companies operating in Imo State pays taxes to the state government
Earlier in his address, Eze Ilomuanya said the elders came to convey their immense gratitude and thanks to the governor for standing by the Council since its inauguration on December 21, 2021, and for fulfilling every promise made to them since their inauguration.
