Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has stated that he cannot solve all the problems facing the state, emphasizing that his successor must be courageous to continue the “good work” he has started.
Speaking during a meeting with political leaders from the Imo East Senatorial District (Owerri Zone) under the Owerri Harmony Project at the Government House in Owerri on Tuesday, March 11, Uzodimma highlighted the need for a bold and focused leader to succeed him.
The governor, who secured a landslide victory in his second-term election, reminded attendees that he still has three years left in office, jokingly adding, “unless, of course, you want to poison me here!”
Uzodimma stressed the importance of merit and courage in leadership, recalling the insecurity that marked the early days of his administration and how his team overcame it.
“I will not solve all the problems in Imo. I will do the ones I can do, but the man coming after me should be able to do some. We will support merit. We must look for merit because we need a man who is courageous,” he said.
He warned against external influences that may attempt to manipulate the succession process, urging leaders to prioritize collective interests over personal desires.
“Very soon, external forces will approach you, tell you that you are the best candidate for governor, and even offer incentives. But after the elections, they will abandon you. We must differentiate between personal desires and collective interests,” Uzodimma cautioned.
The governor called for unity, reconciliation, and a focus on development, emphasizing that politics should be pursued with love and understanding rather than confrontation.
“Let us first create awareness, consult, reconcile, and unite. Politics should be pursued with love and understanding, not confrontation,” he concluded.
Uzodimma’s remarks come as he continues to push for stability and progress in Imo State, setting the stage for a thoughtful and merit-based transition when his tenure ends.
