
By Ikechukwu Iweajunwa
The Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Barr Kennedy Ibeh on Saturday at a book Presentation in Owerri described Gov. Hope Uzodimma as a visionary leader and uncommon governor.
The Speaker disclosed that Gov. Hope Uzodinma who finds time to write a book to address the challenges of the Igbos despite his tight schedule was a clear example of a committed leader.
The book, titled “Reflections on The Igbo Question” has a total of 206 pages and 10 chapters.
The Cerebral Speaker expressed thanks to God for the gift of the governor, whom he called a rare gem who has not only repositioned Imo in the path of progress but has championed the wellbeing of the entire Igbo race.
The Speaker explained that ‘Onwa’ which the governor is called is a beckon of light that shows the way in darkness.
The speaker also congratulated the governor who will mark his 63rd birthday today, Sunday.
“Happy birthday Your Excellency, the indefatigable People’s Governor of Imo State, to almighty God be the glory forever.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son to the world.
“His Excellency has given a precious gift to the world today captioned “Reflection on the Igbo Questions“, he said.
The Speaker said the book would raise questions, provoke thoughts and provide answers that will satisfy curious minds.
While wishing the governor a fufilled life as he celebrates his 63rd birthday, the Speaker assured Uzodimma of the support of the legislative arm.
The author of the book, Gov. Hope Uzodinma said that the idea behind the writing of the book is to reinvent a system that will guarantee fairness, justice and equity among all.
According to him, the book is a reflection of his thoughts for over 8 years.
He called for renewed spirit by the Igbo youths to pursue technological and economic break through rather than the crave for easy money.
The book reviewer, Prof. Chima Bennett Nwanguma, did succinct summary of the 206 pages and 10 chapters book.
According to the reviewer, the book addressed a number of topical challenging issues such as the vexed issue of Igbo marginalization, restructuring, Igbo Presidency and unity of Nigeria among others.
The reviewer said the author, Senator Hope Uzodinma, admitted that there are obvious marginalization of Ndigbo rooted in the post war economic policy of the federal government.
According to the book, such policies include the release of only 10 pounds to the Igbo after the war and the ban on stock fish.
He also cited the diversion of some projects meant for the Igbos to other state of the country and the lopsided number of states in South East as clear examples of marginalization.
He said the governor differed on the mood of addressing the challenge. According to the reviewer, the book explained that Igbos cannot achieve their pursuit through Biafra agitation but by well thought-out plan.
He noted that restructuring will help Igbos to actualize their aim.