Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has called on armed individuals causing insecurity in parts of the state to surrender their weapons and reintegrate into society to contribute positively to its development.
He assured them of government support to start businesses and become productive members of the community.
Governor Uzodimma made the appeal during the funeral of the late Hon. (Mrs.) Jenny Rachael Okonkwo, a former APC woman leader for Orlu Zone, who was brutally murdered in 2022 by suspected assailants, with her body dumped in the bush.
Speaking at her hometown in Ogberuru, Orlu Local Government Area, on Thursday, the Governor condemned the circumstances surrounding her death, describing her as an invaluable loss to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the state.
“Mrs. Okonkwo was not killed for any crime she committed but simply because she was an APC member dedicated to her duties as a woman leader and mobilizer,” Uzodimma stated.
He added that she was one of the best organizers and mobilizers in Orlu and Imo State, whose commitment to the Party was unmatched.
The Governor announced a financial support of N10 million for the families of Mrs. Okonkwo and the four other women murdered alongside her.
He also pledged government assistance in securing employment for their employable children or training for those interested in learning a trade or skill.
He expressed confidence that justice would prevail, noting that the perpetrators of political violence in Orlu are still active but will soon face divine retribution.
“Strangers were used to kill their brothers and sisters in Orlu. However, today, with the help of God, Orlu people are beginning to realize that these killers do not mean well for the state,” he said.
Governor Uzodimma urged the APC members and the community to remain steadfast, take heart, and honor the legacy of the late Mrs. Okonkwo, fondly remembered as the “Iron Lady.”