By Stevenie Michaels
As protests erupted in various states across Nigeria on Thursday, August 1, 2024, Imo State remained calm, with citizens going about their daily activities undeterred. Unlike other states, Imo State did not experience any disruptions, with the state secretariat open for business and markets operating normally.
Governor Hope Uzodimma addressed a gathering of Imo stakeholders, comprising youths, traditional rulers, faith groups, political party leaders, labor leaders, market men and women, academics, and others, on Wednesday. He briefed them on the state of the nation and explained why the protest could not hold in South East states.
Governor Uzodimma emphasized that no state in the South East subscribed to the planned nationwide protest, and therefore, there was no need for Imo indigenes and residents to participate. He highlighted the steps taken by the federal government to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship, including the distribution of palliatives, sale of crude oil in naira to refinery owners, and approval of funds for the most vulnerable in society.
The governor also addressed the political struggle for leadership in Imo State, expressing regret that those who lost in the last election have refused to accept the outcome. He noted that his administration has garnered support through strategic partnerships with the federal government and enjoys the goodwill of Imo people based on his performance in office.
Governor Uzodimma criticized those who contributed to the current economic challenges for sponsoring protests instead of working with the federal government for resolution. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his courage in addressing inherited challenges and his determination to create a more prosperous future.
The governor praised the people of the South Eastern Region for heeding the appeal not to join the nationwide protest, particularly the traditional rulers in the state for achieving cohesion. He noted that recognizing the potential danger of hijackers targeting peaceful demonstrators was truly commendable.
