Justice, inclusion key to sustaining peace in Imo — Uzodimma

By Chidi Nkwopara, Owerri

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has said that justice, inclusion, and consensus remain critical to sustaining peace and stability in a democratic society.

Uzodimma stated this while addressing members of the Imo State Council of Elders at the Government House in Owerri, where he also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preventing what he described as any form of “hostile takeover of power” in the state.

Reflecting on past political challenges, the governor said the 2020 crisis that ushered in his administration highlighted the dangers of exclusion in governance.

He noted that a panel he constituted, led by Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Anthony Obinna, identified marginalisation as a major cause 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.

He described the Imo State Council of Elders as “the conscience of the state,” noting that it was established by law to provide guidance on governance beyond any administration.

The governor also disclosed plans to amend the law establishing the council to strengthen its authority, including provisions to sanction members for misconduct.

On the Imo Charter of Equity recently presented to him by the Council, Uzodimma expressed satisfaction that it promotes fair distribution of key political offices among the state’s three senatorial zones—Okigwe, Owerri, and Orlu.

He urged political stakeholders to respect zoning arrangements and avoid actions that could deepen divisions.

“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 said.

Uzodimma added that he would continue consultations with leaders across the three zones to strengthen consensus and promote lasting stability.

Earlier, Chairman of the Council, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, called for full implementation of the Charter of Equity, stressing that it should go beyond rhetoric.

He urged the government to ensure fairness in appointments, project distribution, and opportunities across all parts of the state, noting that such measures would promote inclusiveness and strengthen unity.

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