Hon. Uche Ben Odunzeh, the 2023 governorship candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in Imo State, has strongly condemned the brutal killings that rocked the Umualoma, Ndiakunwanta, and Ndiejezie communities in Arondizuogu, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State on Friday, July 24.
Describing the attack as “inhuman, unprovoked, and utterly reprehensible,” Odunzeh lamented the culture of unchecked violence sweeping across local communities, stressing that such acts undermine the very foundation of civil society.
“As Nwafo Igbo, killings have never been part of our lifestyle,” he said. “We must never allow violence, killings, armed robbery, and kidnapping to become commonplace, nor give room for impunity to thrive. The security and peace of our people are non-negotiable. Every citizen has the right to sleep without fear and to wake without grief.”
Odunzeh called on both the state and federal governments to act swiftly in protecting vulnerable communities, apprehending the perpetrators, and ensuring that comprehensive measures are put in place to prevent future tragedies.
“Enough of the killings in our land,” he added. “We need to enhance security measures that incorporate local intelligence gathering and seamless collaboration with our local police.”
He emphasized that the pain and loss suffered by the victims and their families are immeasurable and urged the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, alongside all security agencies, to go beyond political divides and self-interest to establish a credible security framework.
“I urge His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodinma and all the security agencies in the state to rise beyond the confines of partisanship, fear, and self-interest and act swiftly to institute a security framework that protects, respects rights, and restores peace,” Odunzeh stated.
In a show of solidarity and compassion, Odunzeh extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Arondizuogu community.
“I pray for divine comfort and the strength for them to bear the weight of this unspeakable loss,” he said.
