The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has reiterated his government’s resolve to conduct Local Government elections that will usher in Executive Chairmen and Councilors at the third tier of government this year.
The Governor spoke while swearing-in the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC) Chairman, Chief Charles Ejiogu and two newly appointed members, Mr. Igbo Kenneth Chinyere and Chief Dominic Uzowuru, at the New Exco Chambers, Government House, Owerri on Monday.
Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma (centre); Chairman, Imo State Independent Electoral Commission, Chief Charles Ejiogu (3rd right); Hon Kenneth Igbo (3rd left); Hon Dominic Uzowuru (left); Hon Chief Charles Ohiri (right); Hon Mrs Jecinta Uchechukwu (2nd right); and Dr Henry Adielechi (2and left); at their swearing-in ceremony as chairman and members of ISIEC at the New Exco Chamber Govt house Owerri
Addressing the Chairman and members of the Commission, the Governor congratulated them for making themselves available to serve, informing that the inauguration is a process of strengthening the ISIEC as a body that will take the government to the rural areas.
He then charged the Chairman, the old and new members, to study the law establishing their office and do well to keep the principles of their oath.
Governor Uzodimma enjoined them to work hard to satisfy the yearnings and aspirations of Imo people who have longed for Local Government elections.
He seized the opportunity to remind Imo people that the events of past years which include insecurity, killings and maiming, banditry, actions of unknown gunmen, the #ENDSARS# and even the Covid-19 pandemic, did not create enabling environment for the conduct of Local Government elections.
He promised that now that the situation has changed and the environment becoming more conducive, his Government will conduct the Local election before the November governorship poll.
Concluding, the Governor said his idea of democracy in progress includes bringing it nearer to the people at the Councils.
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, Chief Ejiogu as the Chairman ISIEC expressed gratitude to the Governor for finding them worthy to serve at this critical time of political era.
He promised that they are duty bound to carry out their assignment according to the oath they took, noting that they are ready to work to satisfy the yearnings of Imo populace.
He promised that they will justify the confidence repose on them.
The swearing-in was witnessed by all members of Imo State Executive Council in session, as well as the old members of ISIEC – Dr. Henry Adimelechi, Mrs. Jacinta Uchechukwu and Chief Charles Ohiri – while Barr. Magnus Agu was unavoidably absent.