By Matthew don
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has advised parents in the state not to allow their children and wards to be used by politicians staging all manner of selfish protests.
The governor also said though he would not be against protests that are within the ambit of the law, he reiterated his earlier resolve to ensure that the lives and property of Imo people are protected from the hands of agents of destabilisation and war.
In a statement on Wednesday by Uzodinma’s Chief Press/Media Adviser, Oguwike Nwachuku said the state government would not fold its hands and allow the peace of the state tampered with by politicians who only think self and were prepared to do everything to use the children of the poor and vulnerable to achieve their selfish aims.
The statement read in full:
“The attention of the State Government has been drawn to clandestine plans by some disgruntled elements hiding under the canopy of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to disturb the peace of the State through misguided demonstrations.
“Imo State Government under the able leadership of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma recognizes the rights of individuals and groups to protest within the confines of the law. Unfortunately, security feelers from the camp of the protesters paint a different picture as organizers of the protest have hired people who are not from Imo State to destabilize the peace and cause disaffection.
“It would be recalled that Governor Uzodimma had only last week issued a directive prohibiting further demonstrations in the state as such activities portend negative outcomes. The Governor had reiterated that those sponsoring such demonstrations do not mean well for our people as they are only pursuing their selfish interests.
“Because the primary task of Government is to secure the lives and property of her citizens, Governor Uzodimma will not fold his hands and allow some miscreants masquerading as protesters breach the peace Imo people have witnessed since his coming into office and has therefore directed Security Agencies to rise to the occasion. More importantly, the Governor has advised parents to guide their wards appropriately so as not to be used as tools in the hands of deceitful politicians.
“The General Public is hereby directed to go about their lawful business and ignore any call by some elements to be part of the unproductive exercise.
“Finally, Governor Uzodimma assures all Imolites that his administration is for peace and service, ready to provide equal opportunities for the overall development of the state and her citizens regardless of cadre, status, tribe or religion.”