For the first time, the incumbent Government in Imo state led by Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha has begun to revisit its policy of exclusion by inviting the opposition parties to its functions.
The Government through the Secretary of the State Government, Prof. Anthony Anwuka distributed invitations for the May 29, 2012 Democracy Day celebration and included members other political parties, including former House of Assembly members, past Local Government Chairman, PDP big wigs and former appointees who served under the past administration of Dr. Ikedi Ohakim.
Many who speak to Imo Trumpeta described the development as maturity on the side of the Government, pointing out that this should have been the norm earlier before now, as Okorocha had scared away most people who would have given support for his administration to take Imo to another level.
“Well, it is better late than never. Although, most of us had thought Okorocha would have thrown his government open for all Imo people, since he came into office on popular demand” a PDP top shot told Imo Trumpeta.
Although sources at the meeting which took place at Sam Mbakwe Chamber, Government House, Owerri, disclosed that the event took place, but without attracting most of the invitees, which the source said took the invitation with a pinch of salt, since they were surprised that Okorocha who closed his door against opposition, suddenly threw it open.
Imo Trumpeta learnt that a sprinkle of the appointees who served under Ohakim attended the occasion, but were curious of the invitation.
One of those who attended said he did so, hoping that Okorocha may raise the issue of allowances and salaries of the past appointees which his government had withheld and refused to pay.
However, many observers commended Okorocha for opening the door for opposing voices to be given chances in his administration, adding that the State is too big for one person, group or political party.
“I think this is a new beginning. After one year in office Okorocha have realised that every Imo citizen who has good idea to move the State forward, be given a chance, despite clan or political leaning” Imo Trumpeta was told.
