Rochas launches South-East Ward Mobilizers and Supporters’ Club for APC in Owerri.

Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha have launched a Supporters’ club for the the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the five states of the South East geo-political zone in Nigeria.

Speaking during the launching which coincided with the inauguration of the South-East Ward Mobilizers for the APC at the Ahiajoku Convention Centre, Owerri at the weekend, Governor Okorocha maintained that the Igbos are well accommodated in the new platform compared to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), which he accused of relegating the zone to the background.

According to him, the agitation for a Nigerian president of Igbo extraction can only be realized on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC).

Said he: “ I am highly elated that our people are responding to this clarion call that has to do with our collective destiny and aspiration. It is a clear fact that Ndigbo have been relegated to sixth position in the political equation of our nation not minding the fact that we formed one of the tripods upon which the nation stands.”

Speaking further at the occasion, Governor Okorocha said that a situation where the Igbo  is not  the President, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the ruling party, gave credence to the fact that they have been relegated to the background by the PDP.

“But my assurance today is that our tears would be wiped away in APC as we have no doubt started well and will definitely finish on a very good note in this new party. Let me state categorically that Igbo presidency, which appeared impossible in PDP would be actualized under the platform of APC. Therefore, I make bold to say that APC is truly an Igbo party and should be embraced by the entire Igbo,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the Coordinator of the APC South-East Ward Mobilizers, Chula Nwauwa, explained that the mobilizers were people carefully chosen with the remarkable capacity to build the party at the grassroots and move on the same pace with Governor  Rochas Okorocha, who incidentally is the chief mobilizer of the party in the South-East.

According to Hon. Nwauwa, the mobilizers are responsible for converting members of other political parties into the fold of APC towards strengthening its hold at the grassroots to wrestle power from the PDP both at the State and National levels.

Adding his voice, the member representing Owerri Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Onyewuchi Ezenwa commended the leadership of the governor for moving Ndigbo to the mainstream of political equation.

He urged the members of the party to learn from other parties by propagating the ideals of APC, noting that APC would take out Ndigbo from political wilderness.

In his goodwill message, the National Vice Chairman of APC in the South-East, Dr. Nyerere Anyim, urged Igbos to embrace the party and work for its victory in the forth-coming general elections. He noted that the governor had watered the ground for Ndigbo to be liberated from the shackles of marginalization.

Also present at the occasion were the APC South-East Ward Mobilizers which include, Marshal Okafor Anyanwu of Imo State, Hon. Peter Okonkwo of Enugu State, Barr. Obi Igwedibia of Anambra state, Francis Egu of abia State,.

High point of the event was the installation of Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha as the Grand Patron of the APC Supporters Club.

Okorocha dissolves cabinet, orders Commissioners to hand over to Permanent Secretaries

Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha has dissolved his cabinet. In a statement at the EXCO meeting held at the Government House, Owerri yesterday, the governor directed all his Commissioners to hand over to the permanent secretaries of their respective ministries. Also relieved of their appointments are all his Senior Special Assistants as well as his Special Advisers.

Subsequent details on the cabinet dissolution will be given later.

Rochas adopted as leader of APC in the S/East zone as 5 Parties in Imo merge together

The Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha has been adopted as the leader of APC in Imo State and the South-East geopolitical zone in Nigeria.

This disclosure was made by the national organizing secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Osita Izunaso during an expanded meeting of all political stakeholders held on Friday at the Government House, Owerri.

Speaking during the occasion which climaxed into the merging of five political parties, Senator Izunaso said that APC is born to rescue Nigeria from bad governance adding that the party is anchored on the Rule of Law, Justice, Fairness and Equity.  

The political parties which include; All Nigerian Peoples Party [ANPP], Action Congress of Nigeria [CAN], All Progressive Grand Alliance {APGA], Congress for Progressive Change [CPC] and Democratic Peoples Party [DPP] were represented by their respective State Chairmen and they unanimously announced their parties’ decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during the occasion, the governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha described APC as a child of circumstance due to the failure of PDP to meet up with expectations and yearnings of Nigerians in the last fourteen years.

He said, the meeting of the parties became necessary now that INEC has assured them that the party has met the registration guidelines and to chart a new course to move the party forward in the state.

Speaking further at the occasion, Governor Okorocha said that all the Political Parties that make up APC will work together as members of one family, adding that APC is not an alliance but a merger to form a new party where every Nigerian has equal opportunity to participate in the affairs of the nation.

According to him, the six principal positions in the nation leadership have continued to elude Ndi-Igbo under PDP which he said will be corrected by APC on assumption of power in 2015.

He assured the people that APC will give Ndi-Igbo and the entire South-East a pride of place in the affairs of the nation’s politics.

Speaking earlier, Chief Mike Ahamba (SAN) said that he was happy that the meeting of the day has not left anyone in doubt that APC is a reality in Imo State.

He said that APC is moving forward with determination, adding that the success of APC in 2015 will enable Nigeria to join the league of develop nations.

He called on all APC members to put aside their differences and come together under the leadership of governor Okorocha in APC.

Adding his voice, a frontline politician in Imo State, Retd. Col. Lambert Iheanacho thanked the governor whom he described as a rare leader for conveying the meeting, and assured members of APC that they will work together under the leadership of governor Okorocha.

Other dignitaries who attended the occasion include Chief Mrs. Adaugo Obi, the National Executive Member of APC from Imo, Chief Uche Onyeagocha, Chief Pat Abii and a host of others

·          

Five Traditional Rulers emerge in Imo as Rochas continues dispute settlement in Local Communities

The continued settlement of ezeship tussle (contest among candidates vying for the position of Traditional Ruler)  in Imo State by Governor Rochas Okorocha has produced another five Traditional Rulers in the state.

Those that emerged are Eze Hycinth Nwamadi of Eziama Autonomous Community in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area, Chief Eugene Iheanacho Onyenwe of Akpotu Egbelu Isiala Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise LGA, Sir John Onuekwusi for Amata Autonomous Community in Ikeduru L.G.A.

Others are Chief Barrister G.H. Ariaga  of Egbema Autonomous Community and Chief Godwin Ehirim  of Amaimo in Ikeduru LGA.

The case of Obiti Autonomous Community in Ohaji Egbema LGA was differed to enable further investigation before final decision is taken.

Imo govt. launches N500 million Youths Empowerment Trust Fund for Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta LGA

Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha handing over a cheque for the 500 million naira youths empowerment programme for Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta

The Imo state Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha has launched a 500 million nairaTrust fund for Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta Local Government Areas of Imo State.

Speaking during the inauguration of a committee charged to ensure proper disbursement of the fund at the Ahiajoku Convention center, Owerri yesterday, Governor Okorocha said that the aim was to address the restiveness occasioned by poverty and lack of job in those areas.

He noted that the people of those areas have been marginalized for the past 13 years of democracy in Imo state, and stressed the resolve of his government to put them in the forefront of his administration. He maintained that the youths are the engine room of every society and as such, no country could function efficiently without the contribution from the future leaders.

The Governor advised politicians to desist from using the youths as agents of destabilization, adding that the fund should not be used for frivolities, rather, it should be used for the development of the area.

He called for cooperation of the youths to the realization of the set objectives of the trust fund and tasked the committee to ensure proper disbursement of the fund.

In his address, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Comrade Kenneth Emelu thanked the governor for the initiative aimed at empowering the youths of Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta LGAs to be self-reliant and expressed optimism that through the scheme cottage industries would be built and youths restiveness will be drastically reduced.

The commissioner charged the youths to channel their energies towards the ongoing global challenge to sustain the economy, society and environment.
He stressed the need for oil companies, corporate organizations and international donor agencies to assist government in youths empowerment as government alone cannot do it. The Managing Director ISOPADEC, Prince Henry Okafor commended the present administration in Imo State for having the interest of the people of the area at heart.

He noted that the commission had in the past two years constructed 17 boreholes in each of the communities and a new office complex among other achievements.
In their separate speeches, the president, ISOPADEC youth for Oguta, Jeff Nwoha thanked the governor for the empowerment programme and promised that the youths would cooperate with the government for the enthronement of peace and development of the area.
The ISOPADEC youth leader for Ohaji/Egbema, Sixtus Odinaka also commended the governor for the initiative and assured him of their cooperation.

In a remark, the chairman of the committee, Bishop Cyril Okorocha thanked the governor for appointing them, and promised to disburse the fund judiciously.
Those inaugurated are Bishop Orisakwe Z.E, Rev. Paul Nwogu, Bishop Peter Ozigbo, Rev. Goddy Judah, Bishop Ugorji, Pastor Arizona Iheanacho, Bishop Dr. M.A Enyioha, Rt. Rev. Chidi Oparajiako, Bishop Dr. Josiah Ejimabor, Rev. Dr. Andrew Hycenth.

Okorocha tasks women on character transformation for improved well-being of the girl child

Owelle Rochas Okorocha at the opening ceremony of an education summit organized by the office of Her Excellency, Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha for girls drawn from selected secondary schools in Imo state.

Women in Imo State have been advised to develop and exhibit strong positive character that will enable them to overcome future challenges of life.

This advice was given by the State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha at the opening ceremony of an education summit organized by the office of Her Excellency, Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha for girls drawn from selected secondary schools in Imo state.

The occasion which took place at the Ahaiajoku Convention Center, New Owerri on Tuesday has “Women Achievers as Inspiration to the Girl Child in Nigeria” as its theme.

Speaking during the occasion, Governor Okorocha said that women are created in order to ensure the existence of life in the world and enjoined them to appreciate God for giving them special qualities and roles that are not given to men. He believed that women are blessed with special talents which can transform the society positively if properly used.

He explained that his wife organized the training programme in order to prepare the participants for future challenges and enjoined them to shun all manner of social vices especially prostitution and indecent dressing which according to him, debase the dignity of womanhood.
Speaking earlier, the wife of the state Governor Mrs Nkechi Okorocha,said the essence of the programme was to nurture and motivate the girl child towards becoming achievers and women of dignity through hard work and sacrifice.

Guest speakers who spoke at the occasion include Dr Mrs C.P. Ifegbo and Pastor Barrister Edwin Biayeibo.

In a remark, the Dean faculty of Law, Imo State University, Professor Uba Nnabue challenged the girls to be optimistic rather than pessimistic in their aspirations in life, adding that the free education existing in the state has given every girl child the opportunity to obtain formal education which he said is a stepping stone for a higher ground.

Magistrates tasked on justice delivery as Okorocha launches mid-day prayer in Imo State

Rochas Okorocha receives an award from the His Worship Maureen Onyewuotu {Mrs] Chief Magistrate and Chairman Magistrate Association of Nigeria (MAN) Imo State Branch during their 2013 Maiden MAN Week in the state recently.

The Imo state governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha has called on magistrates to re-position themselves for improved service delivery to the people.

Governor Okorocha stated this at the 2013 maiden week of the Magistrate Association of Nigeria (MAN) Imo state chapter held at City Global  hotel, along portharcourt road Owerri, yesterday with the theme 'Repositioning  the Magistracy for
Effective Justice  Delivery.’

Declaring the programme open, the governor noted that their appointment as magistrates has made them leaders who must strive to utilize their position to render selfless services to mankind. He pointed out that the judiciary is the last hope of the common man and urged them to make justice, equity and fair play their watchword.

Speaking further at the occasion, Governor Okorocha enjoined them to shun corruption and live above board, adding that the government would partner with them to ensure that they achieve their set objectives as magistrates in the state.

 In his remarks, the chief Judge of Imo state, Justice Benjamin Njemanze noted that magistrates occupy a very vital position in Nigeria especially in the administration of justice, stressing the need for them to be treated with respect and dignity. He urged the magistrates to live up to expectation in the discharge of their duties.

In her contribution, the Chairman of the Magistrates Association of Nigeria (MAN) Imo state chapter, Maureen Onyewuotu, appealed for the removal of bureaucratic bottle-necks to enable them achieve their set goals.

In another development, the Imo state Governor has launched the Imo mid-day prayer which anchors on the Catholics tradition of mid-day prayer known as Angelus.

At the event, which witnessed a large turnout of members of the clergy, Governor Okorocha said that the prayer which begins from 12 noon each day, will last for 10 minutes.

He noted that the essence of the prayer was to re-awaken the culture of prayer in the minds of the people of the state while acknowledging the achievements recorded by his administration to be of Gods design. He called on the people to be ambassadors of Christ by joining in the mid-day prayer.

Also present at the occasion is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Affairs, Mrs Henrietha Jacobs,  Anglican Bishop of Owerri, Bishop Cyril Okorocha and a host of others.

National Council of Traditional Rulers rate Okorocha high on security

Governor Okorocha in group photo with wives of Traditional Rulers

Imo state governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha has been applauded by the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria for the uncommon effort in safeguarding lives and property in Imo state.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Ede posited that Governor Okorocha succeeded in the area of security by dedicating his security vote for effective security network in the state and also by empowering Traditional Rulers at the
grassroots level which they noted has gone a long way to maintain peace in the rural areas.

The Chairman who is also the Ovie of Uvie kingdom in Delta state said Governor Okorocha in his wisdom, collaborated with the Traditional Rulers and security agents in recruiting, training and remuneration of vigilante outfits which is making tremendous impact in the fight against crime in the state.

He, however, urged other state governors to emulate the strategy being deployed by Governor Okorocha to maintain adequate security in Imo state, adding that effective collaboration with the Traditional Rulers remain key in the fight against crime in Nigeria.

Okorocha swears-in 16 Perm Secs, inaugurates management board for IMSUTH

Governor Rochas  Okorocha in group picture with the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries

The Imo state governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha has sworn-in 16 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries for the State civil service.

They include; Dr. John Ihebereme, Amanze Ann Ngozi, Ekeh Anyanwu
Ijeoma, Opara Nestor (Mrs), Aharanwa  C. O, Iwuagwu C C (Phd), Iheka A
E, Udogwu S N, Ezerioha B A, Okoro M I, Uwandu Uzoma B (Mrs), Nwosu G
M, Ucheoma R, Uzoma J I, Opara H O and Igwe C C.

 Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony which was held at the Sam Mbakwe Exco Chambers, Government House, Owerri, the governor charged them to make transparency and accountability their watchword while discharging their duties.

He urged them to remain focused and to work harmoniously with their commissioners in the interest of the state, adding that they should always seek positive ways of enhancing productivity in the public service.


Governor Okorocha noted that the period where permanent secretaries create bureaucratic bottle necks are over as government would no longer condone such act that tend to stampede development in the state.

In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Ann Ngozi, on behalf of other Permanent Secretaries said they would justify the confidence reposed in them and thanked the governor for the appointment.

In the same vein, the Governor Okorocha has also inaugurated the Imo State University Teaching Hospital Management Board.
Speaking during the inauguration, the governor charged the board to ensure vibrancy in
the activities of the institution especially in its medical services.

He urged them to shun corruption and maintain peace so as to move the institution adding that government will partner with them in making the institution the best in the country.

The members are Prof. Ohaegbulam (Chairman), Prof. E.C Ohanaka, Pharm.
Azochukwu, Mrs Osunwa, Dr. Mrs. Joy Njemanze, Dr. Meg Okpara, Mrs
Nkechi Elendu, C Mark IMSUTH representative of Senate IMSUTH and the
Vice Chancellor Imo state University, Prof. Awuzie.

Oguta re-run election: Okorocha appeals to INEC to issue APGA candidate with certificate of return

Governor Rochas Okorcha addressing journalists on the fall out of the Oguta re-run election

The Imo State governor, Owelle Rochas Okorcha has appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue certificate of return to the APGA candidate in the just concluded re-run election for Oguta constituency, Mr Walter Uzonwanne who scored a total of 9,575 votes against the PDP candidate who scored 7,584 votes.

He made this appeal while briefing journalists at the Government House, Owerri  yesterday.  According to him, the Oguta election which was declared inconclusive by the higher authorities of INEC at Abuja was certified conclusive by the INEC’s Returning Officer for the said election, Mrs Cynthia Oguike, who had signed the final results of the election and was about to pronounce the winner before a phone call came through to her line.

Speaking further at the briefing, Governor Okorocha recounted that the governorship election in Imo State in 2011 was declared inclusive in Oguta Local Government Area when the same ‘power from above ‘ intervened in a failed bid to ensure that he (Rochas Okorocha) did not win. He wondered why the chieftains of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) are bent on winning every election at all costs, adding that such show of disregard for the rule of law is capable of truncating the nascent democracy in Nigeria. According to him, election in Oguta Local Government Area has been cancelled four times with two cases pending in court.

Said he, “ I am disappointed in the manner in which the PDP has handled the election in Oguta. First, the APGA candidate, Walter Uzonwanne was bundled into the police cell for three weeks on false allegation of complicity in a kidnap case masterminded by the PDP. He was released barely  one week to the election day. As if that is not enough, my convoy was attacked recently by the PDP candidate for the just concluded election in Oguta, Mr Eugene Dibiagwu and his thugs who took away a gun and a radio transmitter from one of my security men.”

Responding to questions from journalists at the event, Governor Okorocha called on INEC to maintain the credibility they have so far been known for and to desist from allowing the issue of Oguta election to spoil the good works they have done in the past.  He said the authorities of INEC, out of pressure from the PDP, had declared that the election was inconclusive in 8 polling booths, thereby trying to create an avenue for another supplementary election in the area.