Uzodimma Pledges Swift Rehabilitation Of Okigwe Communities Affected By Insecurity

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has pledged the prompt implementation of recommendations aimed at rehabilitating communities devastated by insecurity in the Okigwe zone over the past four years.

The governor gave the assurance while receiving the report of the state’s Fact-Finding and Implementation Committee on communities affected by insecurity. The report outlines the extent of destruction, loss of lives, and socio-economic disruption across the affected areas.

The committee, inaugurated a few months ago, was tasked with assessing damages and proposing measures for the recovery of communities in Okigwe, Onuimo, Ihitte Uboma, and Ehime Mbano Local Government Areas. It presented its findings at the Government House in Owerri over the weekend.

Speaking after receiving the report, Governor Uzodimma assured that the state government would act swiftly, prioritizing the restoration of critical infrastructure and essential services in phases to meet the urgent needs of the people.

He noted that the implementation would focus on projects capable of delivering immediate impact, while ensuring a comprehensive and sustainable rehabilitation process.

Chairman of the Committee and Methodist Church Bishop Emeritus, Dr. Samuel Uche, described the findings as a reflection of the “avoidable loss of lives, widespread destruction of property, and human suffering” experienced in the affected communities.

According to him, no fewer than 273 lives were lost during the period under review, with damages running into billions of naira. He emphasized that the report contains a detailed breakdown of losses affecting both public infrastructure and private property.

Uche stated that the committee’s findings were based on verified accounts from residents, stressing that the report remains both authentic and reliable. He added that many communities expressed appreciation to the state government for initiating the investigation, describing it as a compassionate and responsive step.

The committee also acknowledged the cooperation of local government chairmen in the affected areas and urged the state government to implement its recommendations without delay.

In his response, Governor Uzodimma commended the committee for its diligence and courage in carrying out the assignment.

He disclosed that the government plans to rebuild key infrastructure, including police stations, hospitals, health centres, primary schools, and local government administrative offices, with support from the state.

The governor reiterated that the reconstruction process would be carried out in phases, beginning with projects that can be immediately funded, with the broader goal of restoring stability and reconnecting affected communities.