By Jennifer John
The governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma has called on Nigerians to celebrate and be proud of the monumental successes the country has recorded within the sixty-two years of existence as a sovereign nation.
Uzodimma made this assertion in his address, as part of activities marking the country’s anniversary celebration at the Ndubuisi Kanu Square (Former Heroes) square, New Owerri, Imo State.
“We should use the successes as a foothold to march on into the future. We should not allow our mistakes to hold us, hostage, rather we should learn from them and turn the lessons into veritable tools that can help us navigate the future better”.
The governor posited that the highest success story of the country is that it has remained together as one indivisible nation despite the many challenges.
He preached love, peace, and trust, among all citizens, condemning all politicians who promote divisive tendencies as their political strategies.
“Sadly some of our politicians have become glorified ethnic and religious champions, who rather than try to do those things that unite us, prefer to widen our fault lines and have ended up driving the country, even further. Such leaders must rethink their mission in politics and decide whether they want to serve the nation or they want to serve their tribes and religion.
“The need for our present leaders to demonstrate an unflinching sense of patriotism and nationalism should not be compromised”.
Fielding questions from newsmen separately, the Federal commissioner Representing South East zone at the National Assembly Commission, Abuja. Hon. Amaechi Nwoha said the independence anniversary is worth celebrating, for the country has been intact for sixty-two years, despite all challenges that have threatened its existence.
On the forthcoming general elections, he advised the politicians to take it easy, and play according to the rules, but expressed confidence in the ability and preparedness of APC, as the ruling party to sweep the pools.
On whether there is any hope for the Nigerian youths, considering the lingering ASUU strike, Nwoha specifically said, “It’s unfortunate that ASUU is still on strike, but as for whether the youths have hope in the future, yes, because without hope, what will the youths do.
“The nation is full of hope, what we need to do is to get it right. Once we get it right, hopes will be realized. Unfortunately, the strike is on, but I am sure the government is doing everything possible to resolve it”.
