I inherited failed state from Ihedioha says Uzodimma
Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo State, said on Sunday that he inherited a failed state from his predecessor, Emeka Ihedioha.
In a broadcast in Owerri, the state capital, to commemorate his three years in office, Uzodimma also stated that he did not receive a handover note upon taking office.
He stated that the challenges he faced since assuming power were enormous, but that he was able to overcome them.
Uzodimma stated that despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and insecurity, which he claims is politically motivated, his administration has achieved unprecedented results in 36 months.
The governor stated that he inherited a failing road network but was able to build an uncountable number of quality roads, which drew the President, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (retd. ), to the state twice.
Uzodimma stated that the civil service system he inherited was not particularly impressive, but that the state now has one of the best civil service systems in the federation.
He also stated that since becoming governor, he has given the state's traditional institutions and the judiciary a facelift.
"The Imo State we met on the assumption of office in January 2020 can best be described as something very close to the political definition of a failed state, this time at a sub-national level," he said.
"For all practical purposes, we met a state with a decayed infrastructure, a dysfunctional workforce and a deeply despondent and traumatised populace. Across the state, there was hardly a single motorable road. Owerri, the state capital, in particular, was littered with impassable roads and dilapidated government buildings.
"The civil service was a good example of a disoriented and directionless institution with no regard for regulations and due process. As a result, productivity and reputation plummeted to zero. This collapse was a major blow to Imo's pride and reputation as a state known for its efficient and reputable civil service.
"The general populace, dismayed by the inexplicable failure of government, relapsed into utter despondency and hopelessness, like sheep without shepherds. Yes, things were that bad.
"The situation was made worse by the fact that we had no handover note, and there was nobody to ask questions about the government's assets and liabilities. When we arrived, we were met with a dead end. Our situation was far worse than conversing with the deaf and dumb. It can only be compared to the agony of someone groping in the dark for a pin.
"Yes, it was that intimidating. But we were not to be deterred. I am not the person who makes excuses for failure. By the time I was elected, I had reached a social agreement with Ndimo to move our state forward. That, for me, was a task that had to be completed.
"To make matters worse, it appeared that the god of oddities was temporarily on the throne.
"While we were trying to navigate an already messed up ship without a compass, the COVID-19 pandemic reared its ugly head with its negative consequences on the global, national and state economies, in addition to an unprecedented toll on human life.
"As if that wasn't enough trouble for us, some unrepentant sour political losers vowed to make the state unruly for me. They did not stop at threats; they followed through by unleashing unbridled violence in the state. It was as if hail had been unleashed, and insecurity became the order of the day. Our once-admired state of safety, serenity, and sanity has devolved into a haven for criminals.
"Our state was a preferred destination for tourists became a dreaded city as visitors and even indigenes stayed away for fear of becoming victims of the senseless killings, arson and violence that spread across the state. Yes, our takeoff was disastrous.
"It was terrifying enough to frighten even the bravest. But we would not give up. Instead, we summoned courage and faced each challenge head on. I was convinced that the Imo people who had chosen me over the other candidates expected me to do this. Looking back three years, I can beat my chest and say that we have, to a large extent, overcome.
"But I must add that we overcame not because we are the bravest or the wisest but because God is with us, and I know for certain that our faithful God does not abandon his people. The verse from the Holy Bible in Joshua chapter 1:9 that says, "Be strong and courageous," inspired and strengthened me. Do not be afraid or discouraged because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
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