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CHIOMA OHAKIM
Ohakim in the Eyes of the People Capturing the achievements of Chief Ikedi Ohakim, the Governor of Imo State within his first one year in office is indeed a tall assignment. Amby Uneze in this report captures the feelings of a cross section of people both within and outside the state on the first 365 days of Ohakim In the words of former Nigerian Envoy to the United States of America, Professor George Obiozor "leadership is everything in governance and the general management of human and natural resources of nations. It simply means the ability to get people to follow voluntarily, and the ability to affect human behaviours so as to accomplish a mission designed by the leader. Consequently, leadership is a quality an individual possesses which distinguishes him or her from the crowd". Delivering a lecture on the topic: The New Face of Imo As a Metaphor for Leadership and Accelerated Development at the Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja in one of the programmes marking the one year anniversary of Ohakim's administration, Obiozor added for effect that leaders generate high productivity, lower costs and more opportunities than ineffective leaders. Again, effective leaders produce result, attain goals, and realize vision and their other objectives more quickly and at a higher level of quality than ineffective leaders. Simply put, some effective leaders are quite often associated with charisma and unique personality that can work wonders in areas of compliance, dedication and devotion to achieving the vision and mission of the leader. In his "Man and his Vision", a blue-prints for effective transformation of the State which Ohakim had put together in his quest to seek the support of Imo people to govern them, he had hitherto articulated his vision and mission of a way out for the people of Imo state in that booklet. According to him in his New Face of Imo Agenda "My vision is to transform Imo State into a modern model state with strong diversified manufacturing base economy anchored on the emerging skills, mid-wife by science and technology with guaranteed employment opportunities, create economic environment suitable for the introduction of a partial 'welfare state' where education and health delivery can be made available to all who cannot afford it 'free'. A model state that would place premium on entrenchment of law and order, peaceful co-existence and challenge the entrepreneurial and competitive spirit of our people which is the touchstone of Igbo high achievement. Above all, add value to leadership through accountability and responsibility in government". Piqued by the usual attitude of our people in handling issues and activities within the environment, occasioned by attendant lack-lustre nature of pursuing government-related duties, lesser-faire manner with which the state was hitherto left in the hands of undesirable elements and filth with reckless abandon, Ohakim in his acceptance speech as the governor-elect of the state promised to bring a new face to the state by departing from the old ways to an unusual way of doing things. He had also promised to carry every body along for purposes of restoring sanity to the state which was noted before as the cleaniest state in the country with the utmost aim of attracting both foreign and local investors to assist boost the economy and generate employment to the teaming youths and other unemployed, provide needed infrastructure such as good network, water, electricity and health care services. Being a man tested for human and material management, he has the knack to convince people on how to embrace peace, harmony, mutual trust and respect for one another, he then introduced into government system enlightenment programme to win the confidence of all stakeholders, and this idea worked out as people immediately embraced the message of the New Face of Imo as a collective project to realize the new Imo dream of creating an ideal modern model state. The same method was used to usher in mutual respect and harmonious relationship between the executive and the legislative arm of government. Not minding that the legislature produced majority members from a different political party (26 of them coming from the PDP while the governors' party PPA had only 1 member) the level of cooperation between the two major arms have been very cordially and worthy of emulation by other states in the country. It is on record that within one year of leadership in Imo State, Governor Ohakim assisted by his deputy, Lady Ada Okwuonu have indeed changed the face of Imo State through the construction and provision of overwhelming people-oriented projects scattered across the three zones of the state, namely Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe. Some of these projects which included over 192 roads, 100 classrooms to boost education, Emergency Obstetric Care Centres, electricity, and solar water schemes were commissioned recently to mark the one year in office of the administration. Worthy of mention here are the Nkume-Amucha road, which had ended the unfulfilled promise made in the second republic by former President Shehu Shagari to the Amucha people; Ezihe-Umunuma-Umunehi road; Umukabia-Eke Umuodu-Orji segment of the Umuelemai-Agbaja road; Nsu-Umuezegwu-Odenkume road; and the Orieagu-Ezeoke-Anglican Church road. Ohakim whose other slogan is hedged on a fast track turf believes that he is in a hurry to develop the state and there is no pretence about this, hence he continues to drive the state machinery with the latest design in model technology. This fact has been acknowledged deeply by his Deputy, Lady Ada Okwuonu, whose sentiment on the ability of the governor to deliver the goals is based on "the governor's fast lane approach and experience". According to her, "his drive towards achieving his set goals for the state is very clear and bold. Because of his vision and mission, he is on the fast lane and therefore has no room for indolence, story telling or delays in implementation of projects. He is a focused Youngman with determination and drive to achieve a lot with minimum delay. Deputy Governor's summation of Governor Ohakim's achievement in one year is captured in her word vis strategic planning which encapsulates clear set goals, objectives and working towards achieving those targets with minimum delay. The secret of the monumental achievement in one year is also based on good leadership. Her words "If you get a good leader, then the followers have to tow the lines. I must tell you that Imo state is blessed to have a great leader, a walker-holic, a man who is never tired, he is a great leader, he is a motivator, a visionary and an exemplary leader and once you see that your leader is doing the right thing, it will be stupid of you not to follow unless you want to fall out and that is why I, myself as a woman and an older person I move as he moves, so that we must reach to the target goal". X-raying the one year performance of Governor Ohakim, the Director General of the Imo State Orientation Agency (ISOA), Sir Angus Oguike praised the people of Imo State to have been wise enough to vote Ohakim as the Governor of the state. Commending the Governor for not disappointing the masses, he specifically pointed out that the clean and green programme of the state government had made the streets of the Owerri wear a pleasant look such that streets lights powered by solar energy adorned the roads; pedestrian walk ways, carves and generally the serenity in place gives one joy. Oguike stated that the restriction of motor-cyclists (Okada) in some major roads had indeed provided enough space for other motorists and cozy environment. He was full of praises to the Governor for the introduction of Imo Municipal Transport Services (IMTS) for the comfort of Imo people, who now travel in style. Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo while presenting a paper entitled "Financing Imo State Towards Greatness" on the occasion marking the one year anniversary of Governor Ohakim's administration in Imo State at the Concorde Hotel, Owerri on Tuesday, May 27, 2007 commended Ohakim's New Face of Imo Initiatives, adding that the programme was inspiring confidence and hope in a great many people, mostly investors who need to capitalize on the friendly environment provided by this government to invest heavily in the state. Describing Governor Ohakim as an inspirational and motivational leader, Professor Celestine Onwuliri, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) commended him for being a remarkable manager of men and materials, especially in the manner he had conquered filth and disorderliness in the state as well as recording resounding and phenomenal achievements in the past one year. In his words "The enthusiasm and effervescent zeal generated by the Chief Ohakim's administration especially in its quest to entrench new ways of doing things call for elaborate celebration beyond what we have already seen because no government in Imo State had recorded the kind of exponential and rapid transformation witnessed in all spheres of development like the Ohakim's administration. His being awarded the prestigious Governor of the Year 2007 at the 13 th Annual THISDAY Awards 2008 organized by the Management of THISDAY Newspaper is not a surprise. He is indeed the ideal Governor of Nigeria ". Determined to double his effort in the second year of his administration, Governor Ohakim in his one year broadcast to the people of Imo State has assured that based on the support of the people, he would work harder for this period. He, however, appealed to every body in the state to join hands with him to achieve that set goal. According to him, "development can only be achieved under a condition of peace, political stability and security. Therefore, as we start the second year of this administration, I call on all the citizens of Imo State to remain prayerful. I call on all those still on the fence to join hands with me to consolidate the gains of the last one year".
Imo Signs MOU With USAID, As Malaysian Team Visits Imo state government, during the week, embarked on three important activities to boost food crop production. This entailed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the officials of USAID on commercialisation of cultivation of rice farming and agriculture generally. Also, a Malaysian team led by Mr. Atanda Bashorun visited the state to commence bilateral talks on the transfer of technology of improved extraction and cultivation of palm seedlings. The team received by the state commissioner for Agriculture, Chief Longers Anyanwu, visited the major areas in the three zones of the state, namely: Owerri, Orlu and Okigwe. On the USAID officials visit, the leader, Dr. Richard Cook, signed for the body while, Imo state commissioner, Anyanwu, signed on behalf of Imo state government. While Dr.Cook promised to comply with the terms of the agreement, he urged the Imo state government to cooperate positively towards the goals of producing food for the state, the nation and across the borders. Anyanwu, while touring with the officials of both USAID and Malaysia, said the state government was interested in attracting investors in both agriculture and other sectors of the economy, adding that enabling environment had been created by the state governor, Chief Ikedi Godson Ohakim. He promised on behalf of government of Imo state to implement to the letter the terms of agreement as the state has always. "The state government is committed to adhering to the terms of agreement. We are going to uphold it so that we will produce enough food for our country and beyond." In a third development, the state House of Assembly has constituted a committee to oversee to the distribution of about 11, 000 tonnes of fertilizer it purchased to be distributed to farmers in the state's 27 local councils. The Speaker of the house, Chief Goodluck Nana Opiah, who constituted it urged the committee to liaise with the relevant ministry, Agriculture, agencies and local council transition chairmen for the distribution to genuine farmers.
Imo Assembly passes bill on use of siren WORRIED by the rampant and unauthorised use of siren in Imo State by some influential persons, the House of Assembly has passed a bill on its limitation. Also passed in the same vein was the bill on the establishment of Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO). Both were passed after intensive debates on the floor of the House and at the committee of the whole House chaired by the Speaker, Goodluck Opiah. In the case of the bill on the siren usage, only the governor, his wife, the deputy governor, Chief Judge of the state, Commissioner of Police, Commander of 34 Field Artillery Brigade, Obinze, near Owerri, the Chairman, State Council of Traditional Rulers and ambulances, fire service and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps on emergency duties are advised to use siren. The bill, which was sponsored by the Majority Leader, Dr. Chukwuemeka Egbuchulam, stated that offenders be made to serve six months' imprisonment or pay option of 50,000 or mandatory imprisonment of six months and fine of N100,000 in the case of second-time offenders. Similarly, the House placed embargo on the recruitment of principals and teachers in the state without clearance from the House Committee on Education. This was taken after the House received petition from Orlu on irregularities in the recruitment.
Ohakim tasks Imo elders on strategic development plan GOVERNOR Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State has urged Imo Elders Council, comprising the aged and experienced men in the state, to produce a well-thought-out strategic development plan for the upliftment of the state for the year ahead. Ohakim made the appeal when the council led by its Chairman, Innocent Nwoga, visited him at the weekend at the Government House, Owerri, the state capital. The members came to bare their minds on the assessment of the governor after one year in office. Ohakim noted with joy that the body he inaugurated as soon as he took over the mantle of leadership in the state last year and that of over 160-member transitional committee, had not disappointed him, adding that the monumental achievement he has made was due to the work-plan and advice they gave him. While using the opportunity to announce that a Court of Appeal established by the Federal Government will soon start sitting in the state, he said: "The establishment of the council is the best thing that has ever happened to the state. We want to set up a global committee to know where we are and move". He promised to consult the council regularly, adding that they should tilt their plans according to the needs of the people of the state. In his speech earlier, Nwoga said they had come to commend the governor for implementing their developmental plan for the state after years of inactivity, adding that they had gone into sub-groups since they were many, so as to achieve results. While expressing happiness that the Imo State University, Owerri striking lecturers would resume duties this week, he urged the governor to look into the issue of autonomous communities.
Ohakim asks govt to arm civil defence corps FOLLOWING the increasing security work load of the officers and men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Governor Ikedi Godson Ohakim of Imo State has urged the Federal Government to urgently initiate a bill to empower them to be armed. The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Ada Okwuonu, stated this at the weekend in Owerri, while commissioning some pick up vans, 15 motorcycles and seven welfare buses for the Zone 'E' Command of the corps. He noted that the officials of the corps were daily exposed to more sophisticated criminals, adding that they would perform better when armed. "They need arms to perform better in surveillance of federal, state and local governments' property against vandalism," he said. Ohakim, who promised that the state government would build two office blocks for the command in the state, promised to assist them in the discharge of their duties. Also, the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who was represented by his Special Adviser, Special Duties, Chidi Ekweh, assured the corps of legislative support, adding that they should not divert the weapon for other uses. Speaking, the Corps Assistant Commandant General in-charge of Zone Corps E, Haruna Idris, who commended government for the vehicles, said they would assist them tremendously in surveillance of governments' property. He noted with delight that the corps under the headship of Dr. Adewale Aboderin had witnessed acquisition of more operational vehicles and gadgets.
N4bn judgment debts strangle Imo councils OWERRI—MORE than N4 billion, resulting from an alleged “spurious judgment debts”, is currently threatening to effectively strangulate the smooth running of the 27 local government administrations in Imo State. Governor Ikedi Ohakim, in an interview in Owerri, also said that this is a new and deadly way crafted by the operators of the local council administrations to swallow the local government funds. “As at the last count, more than N4 billion judgment debt is hanging on the necks of the 27 local council administration. This is a new but deadly system carefully crafted by the operators of the local council administrations to swallow the local government funds,” Ohakim lamented. Explaining how the fraud is perpetrated, the Governor said that the operators award spurious contracts and when the contractors don’t get paid, they sue the local councils and claiming huge sums of money. “The matter will be called up in court a couple of times and when there is no representation from the defendants, the matter falls into the undefended list. “Faced with this situation, the court becomes constrained to give judgment in favour of the plaintiff,” the Governor said.
New face of Imo: The Ohakim story "I will not steal a victory, The end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue" - Alexander The Great. HE wears a perpetual boyish smile on his face that belies the iron resolve and man of action beneath. He radiates infectious charm that bespeaks the humble heart that powers it. He moves with the gait of a giraffe, that enables him take giant strides. He disagrees without being disagreeable. His odyssey from childhood, foretold of his ascent to the pinnacle. And inevitably, he dares the impossible to confront his own destiny-directed inevitability, and the outcome has, invariably and inevitably, been in his favour. Now Owerri city is clean, safe, orderly, odourless and tourism friendly. Four years ago who, in his wildest dreams would have thought that Owerri, the capital of Imo state, whose streets and alleys overflowed with garbage, and suffocated passersby with its stench, would within the twinkling of one year, become an odourless, well-groomed city? In the hands of this "can do Governor, Ohakim", thanks to his "keep Imo Clean and Green Campaign", Imo state has emerged as the "surprise package" of the year - among the states governed by new first-term governors. I will tell the secret of Ohakim's success. Some dream dreams that turn out to be just a mirage, the result on awakening, is blank despair. Some aspire to greatness, but without a vision. Some embark on a journey of a thousand miles, but have not prepared for the first step. Some even dream and have visions, but no road map for the journey ahead. Others seek power for the sake of power - which becomes an end in itself - and not a means to an end. But this boyish looking man Ohakim, beginning from the years of political adolescence, dreamt for Imo State, lived for Imo State, strategized for Imo state, had a game plan and a road map for advancing the fortunes of Imo state. I know, because he shares his hopes and vision with me, even without knowing how and when they would be actualized. When finally, by a fortuitous conjunction of events, as pre-ordained by God, he emerged from the ashes of burnt-out Gubernatorial gladiators as governor of Imo State, he knew exactly what needed to be done - and all things were placed on "fast track". At the end of Ohakim first year in power, Owerri pulsates to the rhythm of urban development and the jingles of people-empowerment programmes. In pursuit of his "Keep Imo Clean and Green campaign", dilapidated structures in the city have been mended, and all now wear a fresh coat of paint - a most refreshing spectacle. Urban Mass transit - buses and taxis - are now available to the masses, where hitherto Okada was the only visible and viable means of city transportation. Undreamt of new industrial development schemes, are now the subject of public discourse and expectations. Crime, which in Imo state occupied centre stage, and unleashed daily paroxysms of fear on the hapless citizens, has been defanged, and no more dares to show itself publicly with bravado. And critically for the future development of Imo state, the outflow of critical manpower from the state has been checkmated, and a reverse osmosis is now taking place, with returnees proud to proclaim their citizenship of Imo State. Dignity, self-esteem, confidence, self-assurance - and the hope - that most precious gift - are now the portion of the people of Imo state. On this first anniversary celebration of the Ohakim Administration, the people of Imo state have a lot to thank God for. And if what is happening in Imo state is what is described as "democratic dividend", then all Nigerians need more of it in their different states. In doing so, they will do well to remember, that God's work of love and mercy here on earth, is performed by his chosen vessels - which includes politicians and non-politicians alike. In the case of Imo state, and without prejudice to the exercise of the democratic rights of its citizens, god's chosen vessel and hammer to reconstruct the state is Ohakim, the governor of Imo state. Ohakim has not yet achieved greatness, but he is doing great things that are inspirational and fructifying. So Nigerians, please, don't spoil and contaminate and compromise him, with chieftaincy titles and "Awards for Excellence", including honorary doctorate degrees, before he has reached his full potential. Only the balance sheet, at the end of his eight years tenure as Governor, when his accountability, integrity and transparency are x-rayed and assessed, shall we be able to tell, whether he achieved greatness, or had greatness thrust upon him. I pray that the end of his tenure be resoundingly greater than as it has been, after his one full year in office. Above all things, the vital lesson from the Ohakim political odyssey is the need to keep the dream alive - and actualized - not deferred. For deferred dreams emasculate peoples' hope. And for what happens to a dream deferred, we can do no better than to turn to Langston Hughes' "Harlem" (1951). "What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raison in the sun? Or fester like a sore? And then run? Does it stink like a rotten meat? Or crust and sugar-over like a syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags like a heavy load. Or does it explode? Let me end with this observation from Victor Hugo: "Nothing else in the world.... Not all the armies.... is so powerful as a man of ideas whose time has come". Happily for Imo state, they have their man of idea and destiny in Ohakim. Therefore, they have reason to keep hope alive.
365 Days After, Ohakim Takes Stock Across Nigeria last week, governments at all levels rolled out the drums to mark their first year in office. In Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, the helmsman of the state took time out to share his thoughts with journalists on how he has been carrying on the task of governance in what used to be a politically volatile State. Ohakim does not see the anniversary as an end in itself. In his words, "we have a four year mandate and I have set for myself, a 14-point agenda which we expect to give vent to within the four years. The beautiful thing about our style here is that we have a programme of action, which is derived from my campaign manifesto." At the start of his administration, the odds were stacked against him. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which hitherto held sway in the state, suddenly imploded. Its Supreme Court declared candidate, Ifeanyi Ararume, was in reality not a candidate in the electoral contest. Ohakim was the beneficiary of the chaos in Imo PDP, as he coasted home to victory on the platform of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA). Beyond winning the governorship, the other challenge was how to maintain a harmonious relationship with the PDP dominated House of Assembly. How was the governor able to survive the murky political waters of the post April 2007 period? He ascribes the ability to carry on peacefully with the Assembly to God. His words: "When you hear that Imo State is in the hands of God, it reflects in the mindset of the key political players in the affairs of the state. If you know the depth of damage inflicted on the state by characters who had been fostering their selfish political interests over the years to the extent that they have distracted, deceived, negatively influenced successive governments, the break from the perfidious past was just inevitable. The people longed for the change and the state was ready to embrace it but the form the turning point would take was left to God to programme." He commented on other issues including his achievements after one year in office. On the level of cooperation enjoyed from the House of Assembly Much as I cannot speak for the House members but one can vouch that their body language and even utterances do not suggest anything different from that which promotes cordiality, harmony, peace and progress. You would recall that the leadership of the House had had cause in the past to warn mischief-makers and merchants of darkness to shop for clients elsewhere but not in Imo House of Assembly. Nothing can be more re-assuring that the House, as a team, believes that the period of politicking should give way to a regime of development of the people and the system. Well, of course, you would not rule out the gift of human relationship management, which in all modesty I have. When each arm of government sees transparency, openness, respect and trust from the other, it would naturally be reciprocated. That is the secret of the legislative- executive harmony in Imo State. On how he has he touched the lives of Imo people within one year I think it is better to ask the Imo people that question. If I may assist, I think the question is better posed this way: what has changed in the life of the average Imo person in the last twelve months that Ikedi Ohakim took over? I am sure the people would readily report there has been a significant change in their lives. The change we are talking about is not only in the materials sense but also at the intellectual realm. Before we came, the thinking was to regard our state as a civil service economy where economic activities were mainly dictated by salaries government paid. We resolved from day one that this is unacceptable. Of course, you cannot begin to question the old order without knowing what the problem was and have a vision for the future. Ours is an agriculturally endowed state. We believe we have the potentials to become, perhaps the food basket of the South-East if not the entire South-South. As I am talking to you, we have already entered into a partnership with an agro-allied giant in South Africa called Agronovo, to cultivate 500,000 hectares of land on an industrial scale. When they came, they started with a helicopter survey of the land to determine how best to cultivate the land for optimum yield. They are to grow food crops. We have established seven rice processing centres in Imo. With rise in the demand for grains globally, we are poised to help the nation achieve not only self-sufficiency at home, but also export to earn foreign exchange. That is the philosophy driving our vision. For instance, we committed over N1.3 billion to fertilizer at the commencement of this planting season. It is our vision to use Agronovo to jump-start an agric revolution in Imo in that existing small-scale farmers will begin to partner with them. Of course, by now, I am sure you are familiar with the Clean and Green initiative, which has changed the picture of Owerri from that of refuse-strewn city to that of an emerging garden city. The Clean and Green Initiative is integrated into our vision to engineer an agro revolution in Imo. Refuse can be recycled to serve as manure. That way, we are turning waste into wealth. I don't have to be belabour the issue. Again, we recognized the nexus between security of life and property and increase in economic activities. I tell you with volatility of the Niger Delta on account of the activities of the militants; those in the Oil and Gas in Port Harcourt are beginning to see the wisdom in taking advantage our relatively safer state as their place of bode. That is why it is now common to see work in oil fields in Rivers in the day and once it is evening they fly over in choppers to their Owerri residence. It is because of the kind of environment we are creating. That is why we have invested heavily in security. We have spent over N1.6b in the last one year to assist the police. In Imo, we have provided insurance cover for policemen engaged in security operations. We equipped them with bulletproof vests. We have built observation points across the state and equipped them with the most modem communication gadgets such that information can be quickly shared and utilized combat crime. Only in March, we went to London to sign an agreement with a petro-chemical firm. When it comes on stream, it is expected to create 3,000 instant jobs for youths. I can go on and on the number of bold steps we have taken in the last twelve months to change the Imo story. On the criticism that the Clean and Green is a misplaced priority As I stated, this government is properly guided by a programme outlay at inception that is tailored to address the basic problems of the state. Agreed, roads, water, electricity and creation of job opportunities are basic to the needs of the people. But that is not all to the problem of the state. Actually, we started off with the orientation agenda aptly tagged, The New Face of Imo Philosophy, which primarily was aimed at putting in place the needed superstructure for the government's transformation agenda. As a corollary to the realization of the new face of Imo, the Clean and Green Initiative was advisedly considered an integrated component given its imperative and value content that transcends refuse disposal. The few that initially adjudged the initiative as cosmetic soon realized that it goes beyond ridding the state of filth. When I promised the people of Imo State during the campaign preceding the elections that I would do a new thing, it was not a mere political statement. We really had in mind to constructively engage the problems of the state from a scientific point in order to have enduring solutions. I know that anything short of this approach would amount to settling for a flash in the pan strategy. On what his government has done in critical sectors In the educational sector, government embarked on infrastructural update by constructing 33 model classroom blocks across the state for adult and non-formal education; employed 490 new teachers to replace those sacked for certificate forgery and related offences; gave grant of N204 million for facility update to the Imo State University for the accreditation of vital courses in the University, and the College of Agriculture, Umuagwor recently upgraded to a polytechnic; donated buses to some tertiary institutions in the state to assist student's transportation and capacity building for the staff in the institutions of learning in the state. Health care delivery received a boast with the provision and update of equipment in primary healthcare centres for rural dwellers and provision of cancer screening laparoscopy equipment at the College of Medicine of the Imo State University. We have equally facilitated, within the period under review, the visit of three medical missions that contributed immensely in further creating access to quality medical care of the rural community level. To ensure that many of the Citizens have access to potable water, 33 water schemes have been rehabilitated, 27 micro water schemes put on stream in collaboration with the UNICEF while the Okigwe Regional Water Scheme that was abandoned over the years has been made functional and commissioned with the assistance of the Federal Government. In the area of security, the government has acquired 30 Multi-purpose built patrol vans equipped with communication gadgets, procured hundreds of bullet proof vests and provided needed logistics for the launching of the Operation Festival Joint Security Patrol outfit, which success has been commended by the sons and daughters of Imo State that came home during the last Christmas. Although we have recorded some bank robbery incidents lately, the government would tighten up the loose ends to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the security machinery. Vigilante groups have been set up in the 27 local governments to provide intelligence and information support to the security agencies. On Agriculture, the state government has successfully rehabilitated the moribund FADAMA II project, procured 23 farm tractors to boost mechanized farming and collected 30,000 outstanding orders of sprouted oil palm nuts from NIFOR which was paid for since 2005 and abandoned with a target of producing 1.5 million oil palm seedling for the 2008 planting period. The government has equally approved a cassava-planting project of five hectares per local government to increase cassava production preparatory for the processing plants we intend to set up in each of the zones of the state. The State is set to reclaim its prime position as a major producer of palm oil produce and cassava. All these are targeted at increasing our capacity to have food sufficiency, lead in to increase in internally generated revenue (IRG) and equally create jobs for the youths and women. On the strategy to attract investment in the power sector The Imo State government is looking beyond the generation and supply system as currently maintained. Our case is most pathetic given that there is only one supply line to the whole of the South East. We do not intend to rely 100 percent on the national grid. We have almost completed arrangements to have independent power projects located first in the areas we are mapping out for industrial clusters and latter other areas of high economic value. Already, most of the streetlights in Owerri are powered by Solar and we are comprehensively researching on other options available to us to complement the meagre supplies from the national grid. Definitely, we are working out alternatives to support the industrialization projects we are expecting. On implementation of 2008 budget Our budget of great opportunities will be implemented to the fullest. I don't know what you mean by the reality on ground but using your own words, I can assure you that the reality on ground is such that would enable us implement the budget effortlessly. And talking about this reality, you would notice that for the first time in the state, the budget is tilted in favour of capital projects: a ratio of almost 60: 40 percent, and if you are familiar with the level of infrastructural inadequacies in the state, you will agree that it couldn't be better for the people. On our part, we are more than encouraged to ensure the implementation of the budget for at least three major reasons. First because we have raised the expectations of our people and we cannot afford to disappoint them. Second, we enjoy an overwhelming support from the people and we have to reciprocate by giving them the dividends of democracy. Third, we are determined to make a change in the lives of the people of Imo state. On the Imo Wonder lake Project The project is on course; we have started with the site preparation. This is a project estimated to cost N60 billion and driven by foreign investment. If you would recall, one of the major reasons this government launched the Clean and Green Initiative, the Operation Festival Security and infrastructural update is to prepare the state to be a good host of the big tourism revolution we are launching. Unlike what obtains in some tourism locations, where the site is at one spot, Imo State intends to develop five tourism sites that would be engaging to tourists. It's a unique potential we have and this government wants to optimally leverage on it. The Imo Wonder Lake and conference centre would form the hob of our tourism development initiative. It would be big. On the importance of realizing unity in the South-East I still feel very strongly about that sentiment and I know that the South-East would be better for it because of the benefits and the value content. That idea cannot be said to have suffered effluxion of time. We will get there some day. Having said that, it is apposite to mention the issue of a mega project I have proposed to the Federal Government, which, when in place, would greatly improve transportation of people and goods and achieve the South's full developmental potentials. THE EAST-WEST railway when in place, would ease movement of goods and commuters along one of the most commercially active routes in Nigeria linking Calabar, Uyo, Umuahia, Owerri, Port Harcourt, Onitsha, Benin, Shagamu and Lagos. The proposed railway with standard gauge lines would operate 24 hours and is expected to boost passenger number which has dropped from 12 million per annum since 1985 to two million and goods from three million tonnes to 0.5 million. With the pressure on the roads, this alternate transportation option has the value content which would make TINAPA and the related projects in the state within the rail routes viable, create jobs for thousands of idle hands, create opportunities for strong economic activities and other corollary interests that are of social and economic importance. The project expected to cost about $3 billion dollars can be funded through concert of efforts. I, therefore, intend to call a meeting of the Governors in the benefiting states with a view to setting up an Implementation Task Force, invite the NDDC to participate, request for Federal Government support and call on international donor agencies to join hands in realizing this project.
Imo offers free medical care for children, pregnant women IN commemoration of his first year anniversary, Imo State Governor Ikedi Godson Ohakim yesterday offered free medical service to children under the age of five and pregnant women in the state. The governor disclosed this in on radio and television broadcast in Owerri, adding, however, that the free medical service must be obtained at the state university teaching hospital, Orlu, Imo State. Said he: "I have approved forthwith the introduction of free medical treatment for children under five years and pregnant women, obtainable for now at the Imo State University Teaching Hospital." He said the essence of the free medical service is to help people attain sound health and reduce unnecessary death in the state. Also, the governor told the people of the state that his government was investing heavily on education, adding that the efforts had led to the National Universities Commission (NUC) accrediting 19 programmes in the Imo State University, Owerri. Ohakim also used the opportunity to invite his political opponents, especially those he contested the polls with, to join hands with him in order to move the state forward. "I once more invite all those who contested last general election to put that election behind and join me to transform our state to a real modern one," Ohakim noted. He urged everyone to pray for the state's upliftment, stating that everyone should concern himself on what to do to reduce crime, among others. "I remain committed to serving you all with my heart, with all my strength and indeed with my life. This is my covenant with you," he added.
Imo launches anti-crime campaign WORRIED by the upsurge of crime in the state, Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim at the weekend in Owerri, inaugurated the state chapter of the National Crime Prevention Campaign (NCPC). In a speech at the occasion, the governor, represented by his Executive Assistant on Security, Law Biador, charged the body to help fight crime in the state and make the area a safe haven for the residents. He noted that it was better to prevent crime than to fight it, adding that it was economical to adopt crime prevention strategy. Ohakim urged all stakeholders to be proactive in the war against criminals in the state wherever they might be found. The governor added that the essence of the outfit was to fight crime headlong, urging that the rural areas be covered by the body's activities. In his speech, National Chairman of the NCPC, Samuel Gbolahan, promised to use the body to prevent crime. He noted that the NCPC was established in 1997 to assist all the security agencies in crime control. Meanwhile, the state government has urged journalists in the country to be proactive and work responsibly. Addressing executive members of the Correspondents of Imo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Owerri at the weekend, the governor's Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Steve Osuji, said due to the influx of non-professionals in the profession, there was need for practising journalists to be careful and discharge their duties within the ambits of the ethics and law. He told the group, led by its chairman, Mr. Everest Ezihe, that as a partner to the Ohakim-led administration, the state government was ready to partner fully with the media.
Police arrest Imo robbers, kidnappers — OHAKIM OWERRI—The Governor of Imo State, Chief Ikedi Ohakim, has said all the armed robbers and kidnappers, who have been terrorising innocent citizens in the state have been arrested by the police. Ohakim, who dropped the cheering news while speaking to journalists after commissioning several projects initiated and completed by his administration, reiterated his determination to make the state investor friendly.
Imo governor assures on security GOVERNOR Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State yesterday pledged to ensure the protection of lives and property in the state. Addressing a large congregation at an interdenominational church service in Owerri in commemoration of his administration's first anniversary, Ohakim disclosed that those behind the spate of kidnapping in the state have been arrested. He accused his political opponents, who lost the election of masterminding the deadly crime in order to make the state ungovernable, thus inviting the declaration of state of emergency. Said he: "We have arrested everybody involved in kidnapping of people in Imo State. Kidnapping in Imo State is man-made. Some people kidnap because they did not win election." He cited specifically the case of the kidnap of Mr. Frank Nneji's wife recently, adding that those arrested will face the wrath of the law. Ohakim did not give details of those arrested and what measures to further take, but he commended to the new Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Innocent Ilozuoke, for assisting in apprehending the kidnappers. He remarked that he was serving the people to create a vibrant economy that every Imo indigene would be proud of. The governor, who dotted his speech with a song, "What a friend we have in Jesus," boasted that he would not be deterred by any form of threat of his opponents. "I will not fear. The more you push me, the more harder I become. No body can threaten me. The best thing you can do is to come and build Imo State with us," the governor asserted. He lauded the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-dominated State House of Assembly, his wife, Chioma, his deputy, Dr. Ada Okwuonu and members of his cabinet for assisting him to achieve the much he had done so far.
Road dualisation: 300 shops for demolition in Imo OWERRI—NO fewer than 300 stalls along the by-pass to the Government House, Owerri, would be demolished next month to pave way for the dualisation of the road. Chief Raph Nwosu, the State Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport told reporters in Owerri that government would not pay compensation to the owners of the stalls because the shops were constructed in unauthorised places. He expressed the hope that the project would help decongest traffic on the road. He said the dualisation of other roads leading into the city had already commenced. Chief Aloysius Aguwa, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Environment, said that part of Modetel Hotel, owned by former vice-president Alex Ekwueme, would also give way for the project. Also contributing, Chief Willy Amadi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sanitation and Transport, announced a ban on the sale of sachet water in Owerri with immediate effect. He said that the Table Water Producers Association in the state had earlier reached an agreement with the government to ensure that used sachets were recollected and effectively disposed. He lamented that the beauty of Owerri, which the state government spent much money to give a face- lift, had been destroyed by littered sachets of used water. According to him, the drainage system has been blocked, causing untold hardship to the people during the rainy season.
‘Kidnapping will kill Imo economy if not checked’ A former National Publicity Secretary of the All Nigeria Peoples Party, Chief Nnamdi Olebara, has raised the alarm over the increasing spate of kidnapping in Imo State. Olebara said that the kidnap-for-ransom trend in the state could have serious detrimental effect on the state if not checked promptly. Olebara said that already, several potential investors and dignitaries were scared of visiting the state because of recorded incidents of successfully executed kidnaps currently put at eight. In all the kidnap cases, the families of the victims had yielded to the warnings of the kidnappers and had often shunned security agencies to pay the negotiated ransom for the release of their kidnapped relatives. Speaking in a telephone interview with our correspondent on Wednesday, Olebara said that it would be inconceivable for anybody to talk about investments and development without giving due recognition to the centrality of the security of lives and property in the society. He wondered why people were not being co-opted to complement the efforts of the security operatives in the bid to checkmate the disturbing development, stressing that the perpetrators of the heinous crime were individuals dwelling in the society. He also queried where and how the criminals who reportedly operated in fake Army and Police uniforms got their uniforms and why the various police roadblocks all over the state had not been able to apprehend any of them. He stated that the increasing incidents of violent crimes like robberies, kidnappings and others did not represent the face of Imo adding that the security situation in the state was abhorrent and sickening to people of repute with good intentions for the state. He advised Governor Ikedi Ohakim to re-strategise and not to believe that the acts of banditry being perpetrated in the state were political activities. He called on the Commissioner of Police in Imo, Mr. Innocent Ilozuoke, to ensure a proper management of the police in the state with a view to fishing out bad elements and assigning responsibilities to competent people. He also decried the abuse of the siren and rampant use of tinted glasses for cars in the state and urged the security agencies to enforce the laws against such errant people who went about with bogus titles in the society. Olebara also condemned the recent approval of police escorts for the members of the Imo state house of Assembly by the police authorities.
No plans to relocate Imo varsity, says Ohakim GOVERNOR Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State has refuted rumours that he was planning to relocate the state university from Owerri to his Okigwe zone. The university was relocated from Abia State in 1991 by the late governor Evan Enwerem-led administration Reacting to a speech at a reception in his honour in Nekede by the people of Owerri Federal Constituency, Ohakim noted that at the moment, he only instituted a visitation panel to look into the activities of the institution since 1992. He said the action followed allegation of malpractice, which had given the school a bad image, adding that nothing would stop him from sanitising the institution. The governor stressed that he would not do anything to hurt Owerri people and by extension, Imo indigenes, in the course of ruling the state. He said: "I will not do anything bad to hurt the people of Owerri Federal Constituency. I will not do anything bad to hurt the people of Imo State. If we are running a government of consultation, I can not take a decision alone. It must be a consensus issue. If Imo people say that the university must remain where it is, why should I, Ikedi Ohakim, relocate the institution? I don't have such power. I believe in the people. The mandate I have is the mandate of the people. I don't want to over-emphasise that. I feel bitter that people will make an address on mere rumour". The governor also disclosed that his administration was working in partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to reactivate the moribund Owerri Water Scheme. Ohakim stated that not minding the zone every citizen of the state came from, they would benefit from economic, social and developmental infrastructure. He also reminded the people that he would continue to bring investors to the state. In their separate addresses earlier, chairman of the occasion and one-time Commissioner for Finance in the state, Chris Asoluka and a member representing Owerri-North in the state House of Assembly, Ray Emeana, said the people of the area were ready to partner with the regime. They urged the governor to always remember them.
Udenwa Wanted To Kill Me, Says Ex-SSG Former Secretary to the Imo State Government (SSG), Nze Ignatius Umunna, has described the administration of his boss, ex-Governor Achike Udenwa as a total failure. He made the disclosure on a day he alleged that Udenwa wanted to kill him for reasons best known to the former governor. Umunna told Sunday Independent in an exclusive interview in Owerri that he resigned his position when he discovered that the ex-governor did not want to leave any worthwhile legacy behind, but rather preferred to engage in activities capable of enslaving the state and bringing a crack in the PDP's internal democracy. "I virtually turned the state into a one party state; the party was formidable then. I set up all those structures that were found at the local government areas under Redemption '98. And when I left, political pirates and buccaneers came in and seized the man Udenwa," he said. Umunna said he parted ways with Udenwa when the latter insisted on stopping some party members from contesting elections and probably nursing the ambition to kill him. "This, I told him, I'll not be part of. They (Udenwa, his kinsmen and sycophants) spent the next three years from 2004 fighting a war which I told him they can never win," adding that he advised Udenwa to allow anybody who wanted to run for any position to run. His words: "And I did advise him also to allow a level-playing ground; after all, we're in control of the party structure and machinery. At the appropriate time, we'll all sit down and take decisions as to where the party goes. It will be collective, it won't be an individual waking up and issuing instructions. "But all these fell on deaf ears and he went ahead to plant his own candidate and indeed, he brought one of the chaps he kept in the United States who happened to be doing his personal business in the name of government. It's interesting that he could not even deliver his own candidate. "Series of meetings aimed at bringing a truce and enthroning peace in the party were held to iron out things and ensure a level-playing ground for all, but the former Imo chief executive could not hear anything of such." Giving insight into what finally led to his exit from Udenwa's government, Umunna insisted that he (Umunna) was told to openly denounce Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, "and I told him I'll not do that. At the end of the day, we just could not agree." He said his departure from government on September 2006 unsettled the ex-governor and that attempts were made on his life twice. "I came back from abroad to find that there was so much bad blood in the party. I was surprised. I tried to talk to the governor to find out what was going on, but nearly gave me a ticket to an early grave. "I was almost killed by armed bandits and assassins in my house but I managed to escape. My escape was by the grace of God. I called the police, the police came and did their investigations and arrested somebody who happened to come from Government House. They went to court as I was told and asked the magistrate to dismiss the matter. He refused but did so after a lot of pressure because the police brought the case and disappeared. So, I went to Abuja and met the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) who now ordered Zone 9 to resurrect the matter. Zone 9 came, made an arrest. By then, I had started investigating myself. So, we got the kingpin who lived in Government House. He was arrested, the next day; he came back because Government House went to Umuahia to bring him back to Owerri. I went back to Umuahia and they also came back and rearrested the young man and kept him there for seven days. He made confessions, he named names and there was panic in Government House," he declared. He also explained: "My investigation showed that the planned assassination, was masterminded by Government House and the governor was aware of it. There was a plan to destroy the case. I just thank my God that I left government when I did." Reacting to the statement by Udenwa that the PDP and Governor Ikedi Ohakim's Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) had an understanding to install the later as governor in 2007 since PDP claimed it had no candidate during last year's general elections, Umunna asked rhetorically "what else would he say?" He said that Udenwa is worried by Ohakim's decision to dump him and his so-called agreement which he claimed led to his (Ohakim's) installation as governor of Imo in 2007 adding, "who told you that when a man becomes governor he cannot build his own structure? This is what the man Ohakim is doing now."
PDP chairman tackles Udenwa on deal with Ohakim The Imo State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Marcelinus Nlemigbo, has faulted the claim by the former Governor of the state, Chief Achike Udenwa, that the PDP had a pact with Governor Ikedi Ohakim to return him to power because the party did not have a candidate. Udenwa reportedly said in an interview he granted a Lagos-based newspaper that Ohakim, on his part of the agreement, would defect to the PDP after taking over the government of the state. But Nlemigbo disagreed with Udenwa on the alleged agreement in a telephone interview with Sunday PUNCH on Friday that the PDP did not have any such agreement with the governor and his political party. Nlemigbo, who was PDP chairman during the April 28, 2007 rescheduled governorship election in the state, denied an agreement on the contested governorship between the party under his leadership and the PPA or the governor. He stated that the issue of the governorship of Imo State was still being contested between the PDP and the PDP and should not have become a matter for deliberation if not for the fact that the country was lawless. Nlemigbo, whose leadership as party chairman was confirmed by the PDP Action Committee led by Dr. Jim Nwobodo, a former Governor of the old Anambra State, on Wednesday, said that since he was not privy to the said deal, it only meant that no such pact took place. “What he had with the governor was a private discussion and we are have not been briefed. The matter is in court. Udenwa has not briefed anybody on whatever they discussed with the governor. May be it is a private discussion. That is why I am not bothered,” he said. He stated that the members of the state executive committee of the party, under his leadership, were waiting for the former governor to brief them on the discussion he had with the governor. Nlemigbo insisted that the statement was a private one and that explained why no party leaders had been briefed on the details. He also said that it was impossible for the governor to join the PDP, even if he wanted to, especially when the issue of the governorship was still being contested in the Court of Appeal. Earlier, the Imo State PDP chapter had debunked reports attributed to Udenwa, that the PDP and the PPA had an agreement that led to the emergence of Ohakim in 2007. The Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, Dr. Love Ineh, who spoke on behalf of other members of the state executive committee, said that the PDP could not have gone into an agreement with anybody as its candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Araraume ran for the election.
Imo new police chief assumes duty NEWLY appointed Imo State Police Commissioner, Mr. Innocent Ilozuoke, has assumed duty in the state. According to a statement by the command's Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Linus Nwaiwu, Ilozuoke replaces Mr. Donald Iroham. The statement, which was made available to journalists, stated that the new commissioner who hails from Abia State was before his transfer to Imo State, in charge of Police Command in Cross River State. It added that Imo people should give him maximum cooperation in his resolve to fight crimes and protect life and property.
Ohakim tasks Igbo on unity NEARLY 40 years after the Civil War, Igbo leaders have been told that they cannot continue to blame anybody for their current condition. Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim yesterday took a look at the political landscape of the Igbo and said that the phase of self-doubt and self-abnegation was over. At the Aka Ikenga Inaugural Lecture and Governance Lecture series at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, the governor noted that the Igbo nation "needs to distance itself from all those inhibiting and debilitating traits, which constitute its weakness today". He stated that the Igbo question could only be answered by the Igbo just as the Igbo problem can be solved by the Igbo. He added that "lamentation and self-pity will not advance our cause. Rather, they will simply attempt to put the blame elsewhere and possibly lead to self-delusion. Blaming the Nigerian nation will no longer suffice as reasons for our retrogression or stagnation". In the lecture, titled: "Ndigbo: Re-branding for a changing world", Ohakim stated that with the emergence of President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, the cycle of self-doubt has come to an end. "President Yar'Adua appears less inclined to mind other people's business. His declared adherence to rule of law actually provides more scope for internal democracy within any group", he added. Restating the place and contribution of the Igbo nation to the development of Nigeria, he added: "We contributed immensely to the liberation of Nigeria from colonialism. Before the Civil War, we held our own in the civil service, military, commerce, education and sports. We can do great things again because we come from a great ancestry". The governor harped on the need to re-brand Igbo land "to make the rest of Nigeria less suspicious and less resentful of the Igbo". He stated: "Ndigbo cannot be respected by others unless they can, with the same vigour, develop Igbo land. Unless they do this, their economic activities elsewhere could be viewed as signs of oppression...If we must be relevant in the Vision 2020, we must be counted first as people who provide solutions to Nigeria's problems and not as predators". Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ike Nwachukwu, said the Igbo have contributed tremendously to the development of the country. He added | |||||
