Imo Governor, Uzodinma Appeals to Unknown Gunmen to Surrender; Give Reasons
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has called on the unidentified gunmen responsible for ongoing insecurity in certain regions of the state to lay down their weapons and reintegrate into society. He encouraged them to contribute positively to the development of the state and assured that the government would offer support in their pursuit of legitimate livelihoods, including assistance with starting businesses.
The Governor made this appeal during the funeral of Jenny Rachael Okonkwo, the former Imo APC Woman Leader for Orlu Zone, who was tragically murdered in 2022 by suspected assailants. Her body was discovered abandoned in the bush.
Speaking at the funeral in the late APC leader’s hometown of Ogberuru, Orlu LGA, Governor Uzodinma strongly condemned the brutal manner of Okonkwo’s death, emphasizing that both the party and the state had lost a valuable figure. He expressed his condolences and offered prayers for her soul, as well as for the other four women who were killed alongside her. In addition, he announced a financial aid of N10 million for each of the victims’ families.
The Governor also assured the families that any children of the deceased who were of working age would be employed, or alternatively, provided with skills training to enable them to contribute meaningfully to society.
Uzodinma highlighted that Okonkwo’s assassination was not due to any personal wrongdoing, but rather because of her dedication to her role as an APC woman leader and mobilizer. He described her as a key organizer in Orlu and Imo State, noting that her commitment to the party made her a target for political violence.
He also criticized the political violence in the region, stating that those responsible for the killings are still active but would eventually face divine retribution. He warned that unscrupulous politicians had recruited outsiders to commit these atrocities in the name of politics.
Despite the ongoing violence, Uzodinma expressed hope that the people of Orlu were beginning to recognize the true intentions of those behind the killings. He urged everyone affected by the tragedy to remain steadfast in their support for the party and the state.
The Governor concluded by reaffirming the importance of moral accountability, stating that those who engage in violence for political gain would ultimately face judgment from God. He encouraged party members to remain united, resilient, and committed, assuring them that their loyalty to the APC would not be in vain.
