Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has inaugurated the Imo State Independent Electoral Commission (ISIEC), with a charge that members should use their position to strengthen democracy at the grassroots.
He told the five-man body led by Mrs. Pauline Onyeka as Chairman to go and strengthen the state electoral infrastructure that will conduct and produce credible elections in Imo State both now and in the future.
Performing the inauguration at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Chambers, Government House, Owerri on Tuesday, Governor Uzodimma said the new ISIEC was expected to “produce Chairmen and Councilors with political integrity, strong in character irrespective of political party, Local Government Area or Council.”
He harped on the need for credible and reliable data for future elections and other statistical needs of the state, especially as it relates to population.
The governor assured them of government’s support in funding and other logistics that will help them to produce credible and consistent elections that will stand the test of time, and enjoined them to discharge their duties without fear or favour. “If we don’t strengthen the democratic system at the LGA level, the political system will continue to be confronted with challenges in the state,” the governor said.
In her acceptance speech, Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. Pauline Onyeka promised, on behalf of her members, to put in their best and asked for the prayers of Imo people to enable them succeed.
She eulogised the Governor for being gender sensitive, noting that Imo State is the first to have a woman as the Chairman of a State Independent Electoral Commission. Mrs. Onyeka promised not to disappoint the Governor and the entire people of Imo State.
The Deputy Governor of Imo State, Prof. Placid Njoku; the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chiji Collins; His deputy, Rt. Hon. Amara Iwuanyanwu; and other members of the State Expanded Executive Council witnessed the swearing in.