Governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo state has reiterated his advocacy for the enthronement of sustainable strong legal foundations for the achievement of enduring strength and stability of the state and the nation.
He made the call, Thursday, in an address at the swearing-in ceremony of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Imo State, Ndukwe Nnawuchi (SAN) and Special Advisers at the Government House, Owerri.
The Special Advisers sworn in are; Paschal Madu, (Chief Technical Officer), Steve Osuji, (Media), Chineme Ihuaku, (Trade and Investment), Raymond Nkemdirim (Security), Chukwudi Mayor Eze (Local Govt. and Chieftaincy Affairs), Nnaemeka Maduagwu (Legislative Matters).
Describing MNnawuchi as “a reputable gentleman and an astute personality who has eminently distinguished himself in the practice of the law, in the church and in the larger society”, he charged him to seize the opportunity of his appointment to demonstrate his unshakable commitment to the rule of law and promotion of good governance which constitutes the main policy thrust of his administration.
He reminded that his agenda to rebuild the state is anchored principally on several action plans, including; Introducing due process, openness, transparency and accountability in the conduct of government business; pursue reforms of administration of justice system for quicker dispensation of justice; introduce Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes via the multi door court system as well as guarantee the security of lives and properties of citizens.
Ihedioha said: “Without the requisite legal personnel, the above listed admirable objectives of my administration for the Justice sector, will become a mirage. I am confident that your appointment will herald a new dawn as you will work assiduously to put in place innovative, effective, workable reforms and strategies to deliver justice to Imo citizens within reasonable time. Therefore, you should ensure that the Law Officers apply the weapon of diligent prosecution as an effective tool of law enforcement.
“We will expect and demand accountability and due diligence from the appointees. The weight of expectation is enormous. Imo people, the South East and Nigerians expect so much from us. And while we understand these concerns, we however implore all and sundry to be patient, exhibit good citizenship and continue to support the government as we are committed to all we have set out to achieve.
“In choosing these resources, we were careful and deliberate as we considered it pertinent and imperative to board men and women of proven capacity, competence, capability, commitment and courage. We were also mindful of the fact that Imo is not just a state but also a pan Igbo – sub nation, whose actions and inactions are in the eyes and lips of many.”
The governor further implored them to strive to justify the confidence reposed in them so that the desired rebuilding and transformation in all the sectors of the state will be achieved.
In his response, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, thanked Ihedioha for appointing him, a member of the Inner Bar for the first time since the creation of Imo State, 43 years ago.
“The expectation is undoubtedly very high and perhaps underscores the excitement of many who have inundated my telephone with calls and text messages, expressing gratitude to God and to Your Excellency for this appointment”.
He, however, lamented the sorry state of the state and assured of his commitment towards actualizing the vision of the state government.
“Imo State is completely battered and in ruins. And as a result, I am apprehensive and conscious of the fact that this invitation to serve is coming at a time in the history of our state for an expectant people in their most challenging times since the most courageous genocide inflicted on them by the out-gone administration. I am however trusting God that given the enabling environment, I shall commit myself tirelessly and assiduously to assisting Your Excellency and the government in the task of rebuilding our state.”
Speaking on behalf of the Special Advisers, the Chief Technical Adviser, Paschal Madu, thanked the Governor for choosing them to serve and assured him of their loyalty, commitment and capacity to contribute meaningfully towards achieving his vision for the state.
Present at the ceremony were; Deputy Governor, Gerald Irona Irona; Secretary to State Government, Chief Justice of the State, represented by Justice Ukoha, Justice of the Court of Appeal, Chioma Nwosu-Iheme, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Uche Onyeagucha; Principal Secretary, Sir Theodore Nwokonkwo; former Chief Judge of Imo State, Paul Onumajuru; Chief of Staff, Government House, Chris Okewulonu; Head of Service, Alma Eluwa; Solicitor-General, Chinyere Ibe; Chairman Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Samuel Ohiri; Chief Mike Ahamba SAN, former Deputy Governor, Dr. Douglas Acholonu; President General of Ezuruezu Mbaise, Cyril Anyanwu; Chuma Nnaji, other key government functionaries and numerous friends and well wishers of the appointees