A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress APC and respected elder statesman, Maj. Gen. Sunday Chikwe (Rtd.), has applauded the political leaders, stakeholders, and people of Orlu Zone for unanimously endorsing Governor Hope Uzodinma to represent Imo West Senatorial District in the National Assembly after the completion of his tenure as Governor of Imo State.
Speaking with journalists in Owerri, Maj. Gen. Chikwe described the decision by Orlu leaders to purchase the APC Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for Governor Uzodinma as a bold demonstration of confidence in his leadership capacity, political experience, and commitment to the development of Imo State.
According to the retired General, the endorsement is not only a reflection of Governor Uzodinma’s popularity within Orlu Zone but also a recognition of his impactful leadership and outstanding contributions to the growth and transformation of the state.
He noted that Governor Uzodinma’s earlier tenure in the Senate left lasting impressions through effective representation, attraction of federal projects, and consistent advocacy for the welfare of the people of Imo State.
“Governor Hope Uzodinma has distinguished himself both as a Senator and now as Governor of Imo State. His track record in public service speaks for itself. The endorsement by the political class of Orlu Zone is therefore well deserved and timely,” Chikwe stated. "Go around Imo State today, is this the same Imo you knew before the emergence of His Excellency as governor? It is not. His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodinma rescued Imo State from the brink of collapse. Today, we have become the envy of those who used to laugh at us. I visited Douglas Road today, do you see what is happening there? Do you remember how that place used to be before now? People traded on the road, refuse heap was like a man mountain and criminals had a field day. Do you know how many lives were lost there? But since His Excellency emerged, all that has become history. Go there today and see for yourself. What about our roads? Are you talking about Orlu to Owerri roads? You remember how Ekemele used to be. Go to Mbaise. Our pensioners who were not paid for eight years before Govenror Hope Uzodinma emerged, are today receiving not only their pensions, but also their gratuities. Governor Uzodinma's hand is golden and has transformed Imo State."
The elder statesman further explained that Uzodinma’s wealth of experience in governance and legislative affairs would greatly benefit Imo State and the South East region if he returns to the Senate as a ranking lawmaker.
He emphasized that after serving successfully at the executive level for eight years, Governor Uzodinma possesses the political maturity, national reach, and administrative competence needed to provide even greater service to the people through the National Assembly.
Maj. Gen. Chikwe also commended the people of Orlu Zone for what he described as “a wise and strategic political decision,” stressing that the move would strengthen the voice of Imo State at the national level.
According to him, Governor Uzodinma’s administration has brought visible infrastructural renewal, improved road networks, economic reforms, and enhanced governance across the state, thereby earning the trust and support of the people.
“Imo people have witnessed significant transformation under Governor Uzodinma’s leadership. Supporting his return to the Senate is a way of sustaining quality representation and ensuring that the state continues to enjoy strong political relevance at the centre,” he added.
The retired General called on political leaders and citizens from Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu zones to unite behind the project, noting that the interest of Imo State should supersede sectional considerations.
He stressed that Governor Uzodinma’s return to the Senate would not only advance the interests of Orlu Zone but would also create opportunities for greater federal presence, political stability, and development across the three senatorial zones of the state.
Maj. Gen. Chikwe concluded by urging Imo citizens to continue supporting leaders with proven capacity and commitment to public service, expressing optimism that Governor Uzodinma would continue to protect the interests of the people and attract greater dividends of democracy if elected back to the National Assembly.
