Chairman of Nigeria’s Governors forum and the governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has declared that his record of public service is untarnished by corruption.
He made the assertion on Thursday during the Michael Okpara Leadership Lecture and Award 2024, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja.
In his address, Governor Uzodimma emphasized the importance of integrity in public service, urging his fellow political officeholders to live within their legitimate means and avoid corrupt practices. He attributed the rampant corruption in Nigeria to an “inordinate quest for wealth and lack of discipline” among those in positions of authority.
While delivering his lecture titled, ‘Service Above Others; Lessons from the Leadership Philosophy of Michael Okpara’, the Imo State governor called on political leaders to draw inspiration from the late Premier of Eastern Nigeria, Michael Okpara. He argued that emulating Okpara’s legacy could pave the way for a more prosperous and ethical society.
Governor Uzodimma also provided an update on the ongoing rehabilitation of the Egbema Power Plant, a key infrastructure project in Imo State. He announced that the project, which is critical to ensuring 24-hour electricity across the state, is slated for completion and commissioning in the first quarter of 2025.
The event was graced by several prominent figures, including the governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu; deputy governor of Ebonyi State, Patricia Obila; former First Lady of Nigeria, Patience Jonathan, as well as past and serving lawmakers.
