Focus on rural devt, restoration of governance in Imo, HURIWA asks Uzodimma 

Following the signing into law of the state’s 2025 budget, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), yesterday, called on Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, to focus on addressing challenges of rural neglect, infrastructure decay, and insecurity.  

HURIWA noted that while these figures suggest an ambitious plan for infrastructure development, the realities on the ground paint a grim picture of neglect and poor governance.
 
The association observed that more than 60 per cent of Imo State’s geography, particularly local councils, remains neglected, with inadequate governance, insecurity, and decaying infrastructure.  

It highlighted the dire state of rural roads and the lack of basic amenities, even in urban areas such as Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe. According to the group, many residents in these areas rely on ponds for drinking water due to the absence of running water.
 
A particular example cited by HURIWA is the road linking Okwe to Arondizuogu, which was either built by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) or a previous state administration. 
 
It said: “The road has now become impassable, with erosion threatening to cut it off completely. This road serves as a major entry point to communities in Onuimo, Okigwe, and Ideato North councils from the Okigwe axis.”  The association warned that if the road collapsed entirely, it would isolate numerous communities and worsen their plight.