by C. Egbunine
The events of January 12th, 2020, remain a significant milestone in the political landscape of Imo State. That day, the Supreme Court ruling led to the unexpected ousting of Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha from the governorship.
This is a moment that would pain any human deeply and Ihedioha is human and must have been pained by it.
But despite the gravity of the situation and the hurt he might have felt, Ihedioha has over time, chosen a path less traveled by many in the political sphere: he refrained from harboring a grudge.
Instead, Ihedioha has utilized his time out of office as a period of profound learning and self-improvement, preparing himself to better serve his people in the future.
Some misguided individuals have speculated that Ihedioha would seek vengeance and spend all his time chasing after his “enemies” if he were to return to Douglas House. However, these assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth. He didn’t witch hunt during his eight months in office and neither would he witch hunt come his return to office in 2027.
Ihedioha has long moved past the Supreme Court’s decision. His focus is steadfastly on devising innovative ways to enhance the lives of the people of Imo State. His vision is clear: to channel his energies and efforts towards constructive development rather than harboring any ill will.
Governor Hope Uzodinma’s time in office has unveiled an important truth: he and Ihedioha share a common vision for Imo State. Both leaders are committed to the progress and betterment of the state. Before 2019, Ihedioha embarked on a mission to rebuild Imo owing to where we were coming from. Come 2027, his approach will not involve dismantling Uzodinma’s achievements to start afresh like some had done in the past (not Uzodinma). Instead, Ihedioha would build upon the solid foundations laid by Uzodinma. His goal would not be to rebuild from ruins as was the case in 2019, but to consolidate and enhance the existing developments, ensuring a continuum of progress and prosperity for the state.
The recent relationship between Ihedioha and Uzodinma has been palpable. Sightings of both men enjoying each other’s company has revealed the mutual respect they have for each other as well as their shared commitment to Imo State.
They have both transcended beyond the events of January 2020, in their shared objective of building an Imo State that we all can take pride in.
Governor Uzodinma has made commendable strides in various areas, including infrastructural rehabilitation, the implementation of the Treasury Single Account (TSA), and the improvement of workers’ welfare, youth development amongst others. These initiatives resonate with Ihedioha, who had also prioritized such developments during his brief stint in office. The alignment of their visions highlights the continuity that Ihedioha aims to maintain.
The people of Imo State do not need a leader who needs time to learn the ropes. They desire someone experienced, who understands the intricacies of governance and shares the vision of sustained development.
Ihedioha is that leader.
He is poised to continue from where Uzodinma will leave off, ensuring that the progress made is not only preserved but also amplified. His return to office will signify a seamless transition aimed at consolidating the gains achieved thus far for the ultimate benefit of the people of Imo State.
As 2027 approaches, it is clear that Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha harbors no grudge from the past. His sights are set firmly on the future, on the continued development and betterment of Imo State. His time out of office has only fortified his resolve and equipped him with the insights necessary to lead effectively.
Ihedioha was that governor in his brief stay in office who brought past governors to work with him and tap their knowledge for the good of Imo State. He won’t be stopping there and despite political party divides, Governor Hope Uzodinma should expect more work for the people when Ihedioha takes over as I know both men would still work hand in hand, sharing their ideas and vision on ways to take Imo to that desired destination our forebears envisaged for us
Ihedioha is dedicated to building an Imo State that stands as a beacon of progress and unity.