Why Governor Hope Uzodinma Could Struggle To Restore Peace And Security In Imo State

 It is no doubt that the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma is battling many forces in the state. One of his many battles is that of acceptance by the people of Imo State, who believed that the Governor is an imposition on the good people of Imo State by the Supreme Court. This has arguably made it almost impossible for the Governor to enjoy the support of the people that he governs. Again, the fight between the Governor's faction of the APC, and that of Rochas Okorocha has equally not helped matter. While all these are going on, the Governor is also battling to secure the Imo North Senatorial seat for his anointed candidate, Frank Ibezim, a situation that has equally pitched him against Senator Ifeanyi Araraume.

 

 

As one who is still struggling to win the heart of the people following his unceremonious imposition on the people by the Supreme Court, the Governor's reliance on the use of force and deployment of military personnel in a state that was once known to be peaceful could lead to more violent clashes in the state. It can be argued that since the deployment of military troops in the Orlu area of Imo State, which saw the military clash with men of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), Imo State has never remained the same in terms of peace and security.

 

 

On April 5, 2021, the Police command headquarters, and also Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Owerri, were attacked and razed, leading to the escape of over a thousand inmates in the facility. As if that was not enough, a military checkpoint was also attacked at the Ukwu Orji bus stop along Owerri - Onitsha road. Prior to the deployment of troops to Orlu and the subsequent clashes between ESN and the army, one can argue that such attacks has never been heard of in Imo State. However, the leadership style of Governor Hope Uzodinma has seen Insecurity and violent clashes increase in Imo State. In the light of the foregoing, it is my view that the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma may continue to struggle to restore peace and security in Imo State should he continue to deploy the military against his own people.