Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has been commended by the Catholic Bishop of Okigwe Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Solomon Amatu for his policies that have brought development to Imo State, and signposts a better society in the future.
Bishop Amatu gave the commendation at the weekend when he led his team on a courtesy call to the Governor at Government House, Owerri.
Governor Uzodimma, however l, has kind words for Bishop Amatu, describing him as a rare and man truthful man of God who deserves to be sainted.
The Governor who expressed delight that some spiritual leaders still find time to appreciate the efforts of the government and offer constructive advice when it matters the most, said that Bishop Amatu is one of such leaders.
The Governor recalled that Bishop Amatu was one of those who spoke strongly against insecurity in Imo in the early days of his administration, and advocated for peace as panacea to achieving progress in the State, describing him as “a man of goodwill who always stands for the truth.”
He further commended Bishop Amatu and other clergy men who believed in his administration and supported the government with prayers to achieve the existing peace in the State currently.
The Governor assured that his government will continue to support the Church, emphasising that “the Church is the reason for the milestone achieved in the area of road infrastructure, education, health, youth empowerment and social development in the State.”
He called for synergy between the Clergy and Laity, saying that the “Church is not only about the Clergy but also the Laity who equally need to support the Church.”
Earlier, Bishop Amatu disclosed that the visit was to commend the Governor on behalf of the Okigwe Catholic Diocese for “the humongous development strides made in Okigwe.”
He stressed that the “zone has no reason to complain of marginalisation, especially in terms of provision of social amenities and road infrastructure.”
He pointed out that “the State has today become a one city State,” noting that it took him less than one hour to get to Owerri from Okigwe.
The Bishop took time to commend the Governor for the rehabilitation of the flyovers on Okigwe road, Orlu road as well as the ongoing flyover at Assumpta/Control roundabout, among other road infrastructure in the State, saying that posterity will remember Uzodimma for his infrastructural renewal policies in Imo State as Governor.
Bishop Amatu however assured the Governor of the support of the Church, and encouraged him to do more for Imo people.
Some leaders from Okigwe such as Rt.Hon Chike Olemgbe (Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly), Chief Tony Chukwu, Chief Chris Okewulonu, HRH, Eze Oliver Ohanwhe, Barr. Jerry Egemba, Chief Dan Ogu, Rt. Hon. Chiji Collins(former Speaker) among others witnessed the occasion.
Also in attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, the Principal Secretary to the Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Irene Chima, and other members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council.
