‘Government can’t do it alone’ — Uzodinma urges grassroots support on security

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has reiterated that ensuring security is a collective responsibility, urging citizens to support law enforcement efforts in safeguarding their communities.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Eze Imo Palace in Owerri with representatives from all 27 local government areas, the governor emphasized that while government continues to back security agencies, residents must play an active role in crime prevention.

“Security is everyone’s business,” Uzodinma said. “As a government, we have provided—and will continue to provide—every necessary support to empower our security agencies. However, the responsibility does not rest solely with the government.”

He noted that grassroots leadership structures have been strengthened to boost vigilance at the community level, warning that criminal activity often relies on local enablers.

“Our communities are inherently structured in a way that makes it difficult for criminals to operate without being aided or shielded by locals,” the governor added. “I therefore call on our people to rise to the occasion and collaborate actively with security agencies.”

The governor also highlighted achievements in infrastructure and healthcare. He cited the addition of the Owerri-Mbaise-Obowo-Umuahia road to the state’s growing road network and a new memorandum of understanding with two international healthcare institutions aimed at improving service delivery.

“The stakeholders’ meeting provided an invaluable opportunity to assess our development trajectory,” Uzodinma said. “With continued public support, we are firmly on track and delivering across all sectors.”

He concluded by calling for unity and cooperation as Imo State continues its development journey.