Uzodimma to Politicians: Put Imo First, Prioritise Development Over Power

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has called on politicians seeking elective office to prioritise the collective interest of the state over personal political ambitions, saying the pursuit of power should never come at the expense of development, good governance and public welfare.

Speaking on Sunday after a church service at the Government House Chapel in Owerri, the governor urged those with political aspirations to remain patient, trust in God's timing and continue supporting the state's progress rather than engaging in actions capable of slowing development.

"For you to be a politician, you must first be a citizen of Nigeria. Separate our common interest from your personal interest," Uzodimma said.

He encouraged aspirants whose ambitions had not yet materialised to remain hopeful and continue praying for the state while waiting for the appropriate time to pursue their goals.

The governor also appealed to residents and indigenes of Imo State to embrace responsible citizenship by respecting constituted authority, protecting public infrastructure and supporting government initiatives aimed at improving the state's development.

Uzodimma expressed concern over what he described as the deliberate destruction of public facilities and the illegal occupation of government property, warning that such actions undermine the state's development efforts.

"Our attitude is important," he said, stressing that citizens have a shared responsibility to preserve public assets and refrain from encroaching on government land.

According to him, the state government has committed substantial resources to constructing roads and providing public infrastructure, only for some facilities to be vandalised or misused by individuals.

He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to transparency, fairness and inclusive development, adding that Owerri, as the state capital, belongs to every Imo indigene and should be protected as a shared heritage for future generations.

Earlier during the church service, the Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Rev. Fr. Prof. Gilbert Alaribe, encouraged Christians to embrace sacrifice, generosity and unwavering faith in their daily lives.

Reflecting on the day's Gospel message, Alaribe said genuine love for God and humanity requires selflessness and commitment, noting that authentic Christian living often demands personal sacrifice.

"There can be no genuine love without a price to pay. If you try to preserve your life by living only for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give your life in service to God and to others, you will truly find it," he said.

Drawing lessons from the biblical account of the Shunammite woman, the cleric commended her generosity towards the Prophet Elisha and urged worshippers to remain steadfast in their faith despite life's challenges, assuring them that God rewards those who remain faithful and sacrificial.