The recent entrance of former governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha into Imo State and the altercation trailing his words and attitude has prompted youths in the state to send warning signals.
Okorocha last week entered Owerri after about two months absence from Imo State after Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha was sworn in.
His entry has caused reactions as he not only verbally attacked the incumbent but also issued certain threats to fight back at the state government.
Apparently against the former governor’s attitude and statement, youths in the state came up with position on the matter.
Meanwhile, youths of Owerre Nchi Ise has frowned at the statement credited to Okorocha.
In a statement, the youths said “It has come to the notice of Owerri Nchise youths and residents of Owerri municipal of the recent press release and radio interview by former governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha wherein he described that return of Ekeukwu Owerre market by His Excellency Rt Hon Governor Emeka Ihedioha as Mis-governance.
“Owerre youths resolved that return of Ekeukwu Owerre is commendable and a welcome development by the entire Owerre people and they are highly appreciative of the governor Rt Hon Chukwuemeka Ihedioha for keeping to his Campaign promise and slogan of “My Word My Bond”
“We also appreciate his developmental programme towards bringing back Owerri city as the cleanest capital city in Nigeria through his “Go Green Stay Clean” environmental policy which has resulted to the desalting of drainages and tunnels which where hitherto blocked for the past eight (8) years of Owelle Rochas Okorocha administration. This has led to a healthy living in Owerri City and reduce flooding in the city
“We also commend the governor’s road intervention through the recent palliative measures by the ministry of works on the numerous pot holes on sub standard roads left behind by immediate past government of Owelle Rochas Okorocha in Imo State capital
We also commend the government on the recent inauguration of commission of inquiry on land matters which affected greatly Nde Imo, more especially Nde Owerre and appreciative of the recent release of our lands (Area K) which was forcefully acquired by the Rochas past government
“We commend and appreciate the governor for the ongoing rehabilitation contract of Dan Anyiam and Grasshopper international sports stadium and the recent approval for the rehabilitation of old township stadium completed in Owerri
“Nde Owerre appreciate the re-opening of Douglas road which was before now closed for the two (2) years by the immediate past Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha.This had restored all commercial activities in Owerri and improved free flow of traffic in Owerri metropolis
“Nde Owerre Youths hereby strongly warn any person or group of persons with intentions of returning back Owerri city to dark days of forceful acquisition of our lands, demolition of our markets and new market which led to the killing of master Somtochukwu Ibeanusi and other Owerre indigenes and traders who lost their means of livelihood, that they will be resisted with it’s entirety without hesitation
“Nde Owerre youths are solidly behind and in total support to the government of His Excellency Rt, Hon governor Emeka Ihedioha. We shall use our last blood to defend him against any evil plan or plans capable of causing breach of peace in the state capital.
According to the President, National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, Comrade Isdore Chukwuemeka, Imo youths will never tolerate distractions from former Governor Rochas Okorocha, vowing that youths in the State will resist Okorocha if he dares forment trouble in the state again.
He promised security of lives and property across the State appealing to the youths not to allow themselves to be provoked.
He said the ongoing verification of pensioners is to ensure the right ones are paid, assuring that his administration will continue to keep faith to its promises to the people.
He called on President Muhammadu Buhari to demonstrate more seriousness in his anti corruption fight by ensuring that former Governor Okorocha is fully investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC for plundering the wealth of the State.
