Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has made an emotional appeal to armed groups hiding in the state’s forests to abandon violence and reintegrate into society.
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The governor extended an olive branch, promising government support to help them establish businesses and lead productive lives.
The appeal came during the funeral of the late APC Woman Leader for Orlu Zone, Jenny Rachael Okonkwo, who was brutally murdered alongside four others in 2022.
Their bodies were found dumped in the bush, a crime Uzodinma condemned as a grave act of political violence.
Speaking to mourners at Okonkwo’s country home in Ogberuru, Orlu LGA, the governor decried her assassination, describing her as a committed party mobilizer and a gem the state and the APC could hardly replace.
“Rachael was not killed because of any offence she committed but simply because she was an APC member and an effective mobilizer,” Uzodinma lamented.
He accused unscrupulous politicians of recruiting strangers to perpetrate violence, including the assassination of party members in Orlu Zone.
In a move to support the affected families, Governor Uzodinma approved a compensation package of ₦10 million for each of the deceased’s families.
Additionally, he promised employment opportunities for their employable children or vocational training for those willing to learn a trade.
Uzodinma also called for justice, warning perpetrators of political violence that they would ultimately face divine judgment. “If you shed blood, God will judge you. At the end of the day, you will answer to God,” he emphasized.
The governor urged Orlu residents to reject the divisive tactics of those fueling violence, expressing optimism that the people were beginning to see the harm such actions have caused.
He also encouraged party members to remain steadfast, assuring them that their loyalty to the APC would not be in vain.
Condoling with Okonkwo’s family and the families of the other victims, Uzodinma praised their resilience and called on the APC family in Imo to stay united. “This is a moment for reflection and commitment to the progress of our party and our state,” he added.
The governor's heartfelt message underscores his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and supporting those affected by the political violence that has plagued parts of the state.