Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has called on traditional rulers in the South East region to prioritize addressing insecurity during their discussions and daily governance activities at the state, local government, and community levels.
The Governor made this appeal at the South East Council of Traditional Rulers Expanded Executive Council Meeting held at the Eze Imo Palace, Mbari, Owerri, Imo State. Represented by Chief Cosmas Iwu, Secretary to the State Government, Uzodimma emphasized the critical role of monarchs in tackling the region’s security challenges.
He expressed concern over absentee traditional rulers who reside outside their communities, creating leadership voids that exacerbate internal crises and security issues. Uzodimma urged the monarchs to actively address these concerns as they are the legally and traditionally designated Chief Security Officers of their autonomous communities.
The Governor highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, noting that the success of these initiatives depends on the active involvement of traditional rulers. He reminded them of their inclusion in the State Security Council and Local Government Security Committees, urging closer collaboration with their President Generals to enhance community safety and development.
“No peace, no development,” Uzodimma stated, stressing the need for synergy to restore security and ensure progress in the region. He also encouraged the monarchs to provide constructive advice on governance to make the South East a model for other geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, and security, the Governor urged the traditional rulers to continue uniting for the welfare of the South East.
In his opening remarks, HRM Eze Dr. Emmanuel Okeke, Chairman of the Imo State and South East Council of Traditional Rulers, thanked Governor Uzodimma for hosting the meeting.
He acknowledged the importance of unity among monarchs in addressing the region’s challenges and emphasized sincerity of purpose in their deliberations.
Okeke commended the efforts of the South East Governors’ Forum and the National Assembly in advocating for additional states in the region and restoring peace to Imo State. He also praised Governor Uzodimma’s exceptional contributions to security, social welfare, and infrastructural development, describing them as unparalleled since the state’s creation in 1976.
The meeting was attended by notable dignitaries, including Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, Chief of Staff to the Governor, and members of the State Expanded Executive Council. Prominent traditional rulers from across the South East, such as Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe (Obi of Onitsha) and HRM Eze Samuel Asogu (Enugu), also participated in the event.
