All set for Uzodimma’s second term inauguration today

.I have forgiven my offenders, says gov

All is set in Imo State as the Governor, Hope Uzodimma, takes a second term oath of office and oath of allegiance, which will run from 2024 to 2028.

He won the second term election during the November 11, 2023 off-cycle election in the state with a wide margin in all 27 the local councils of the state with over 500,000 votes above other candidates.

Dan Anyiam Stadium, the venue of the swearing-in, is currently wearing a new look. The streets of Owerri capital city are decorated and clean.

He had set up a 300-man committee, chaired by Chris Anyanwu and co- chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Cosmas Iwu. The central committee was divided into sub-committees, the media and publicity sub-committee, chaired by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Declan Emelumba.

Scores of officials of the federal and state governments are expected to attend the inauguration.

Uzodimma was sworn-in for his first term on January 15, 2020, after the Supreme Court, in January 14, pronounced him duly elected, voiding the votes of Emeka Ihedioha, who had spent about seven months and two weeks in office.

Uzodimma had represented Imo West Senatorial District for two terms from 2011 to 2019. He had attempted to become governor of the state three times; first being in 2003, when he ran under the Alliance for Democracy (AD) against the then incumbent, Achike Udenwa.  His running mate was a former governor of that, Ikedi Ohakim.

Ironically, later in 2007, he contested with his then running mate, Ohakim, and the latter defeated him.

Meanwhile, Uzodimma said he has forgiven everyone who offended him during his first four-year tenure.

The governor disclosed this, yesterday, during a pre- inauguration/Armed Forces Remembrance Day Thanksgiving service, held at the Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri.

The governor used the opportunity to renew his covenant with God and the people of the state, stressing that he was ready to continue serving God and humanity.

He appealed to those he stepped on their toes, while discharging his duties, to find places in their hearts to forgive him.