Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has raised serious concerns about the current state of the state’s judiciary, describing the situation as “not heartwarming” during his State of the State Address delivered to the Imo State House of Assembly.
“Now, if I may turn to another arm of government — the judiciary — I regret to observe that the situation is not heartwarming,” Governor Uzodimma stated. “Recent events in our judiciary have exposed weaknesses and shaken public trust. These are serious matters that demand systemic correction.”
The Governor pledged comprehensive judicial reforms, emphasizing collaboration with stakeholders to restore integrity. “That is why I am committed to working closely with all the relevant stakeholders to cleanse the system, restore its dignity, and reaffirm judicial integrity. Together, we will take these necessary steps. Furthermore, we will continue to uphold the rule of law and rebuild trust in every public institution.”
Governor Uzodimma highlighted security as fundamental to economic growth, stating: “As we continue to create an enabling environment for investment and development, we are fully conscious that security is foundational. No economy can thrive without safety. No progress can endure without peace.”
He reflected on Imo’s recovery from past violence: “You are all aware of the troubling period when our state was targeted by politically motivated insecurity, marked by banditry, violence, and lawlessness. But we did not fold our arms. We acted — resolutely and collaboratively.”
The Governor credited improved security to partnerships with federal agencies, noting Owerri’s incident-free hosting of major conferences. “I am pleased to report that the state capital, Owerri, has hosted several national and international conferences in the past year, without any incidents. That is no coincidence; rather, it is the fruit of deliberate effort. Imo is returning to its rightful place as the hospitality capital of the South East.”
To sustain peace, the administration has established ward-based vigilante units comprising vetted locals. Governor Uzodimma reassured diasporans: “Imo is safe for your return. Those who visited last year during the festivities returned to their destinations in peace. We welcome you to come home again, joyfully and without fear.”
He issued a stern warning to conflict instigators: “To the very few who may still be sponsoring violence: I urge you to stop. No personal ambition is worth the blood of your people. Join hands with us in building, not destroying, the land we all call home.”
Concluding with a pledge, Governor Uzodimma vowed to prevent resurgence of insecurity while advancing judicial and institutional reforms for a prosperous Imo State.
