By Ambrose Nnaji,The Nation

Copyright thenationonlineng

When Prince Obioha Ndukwe assumed office as the Executive Chairman of Ihite Uboma Local Government Area, Imo State, in October 2024, the region was under siege from insecurity. Fear gripped the people so deeply that even the once-thriving markets shut down early, and residents couldn’t sleep with both eyes closed.

“Before I came in, this place was completely unsafe. People had deserted the streets by evening, markets closed before dark. Even I couldn’t operate from within—I had to stay outside the LGA for some time until we could secure it,” he said.

According to Ndukwe, his administration, with critical support from the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, tackled insecurity head-on. “We cried to the governor and he responded. He gave us a combined security team. Now, there’s a functional police station, and soldiers patrol every corner. People now sleep in peace,” he said.

The previous police station had been burnt down, and with no rehabilitation feasible, Ndukwe’s administration created a temporary but functional alternative at the local government headquarters. “That structure was too weak for renovation, so we provided a new operational base for the police,” he said.

Beyond security, the Chairman highlighted several infrastructural projects completed within his first six months. These include: A New Transformer, Solar-Powered Borehole, Market Sanitation and Facilities, and Education and Health.

He said: “When I resumed, there was no electricity in the metropolis. We installed a new transformer to restore power. We constructed an industrial borehole and converted it to solar power to ensure constant water supply. The East Market had an 80-year-old refuse dump. We cleared it. We’re building toilets and convenience facilities. There were no proper shops before; now we’re building more to accommodate traders. One school was so bad, children studied under trees. We are reconstructing schools with new roofing. Our health centers are also undergoing major renovations.”

Ndukwe emphasised that local government administration doesn’t require massive allocations to make a difference. “If any chairman says he can’t work due to lack of funds, he’s lying. Even the little we receive, when used wisely, can create real change,” he asserted.

The Chairman also outlined plans to revive agriculture in Ihite Uboma, describing the LGA as the “food basket of Imo State.”

“We have vast land and multiple rice mills. We are injecting resources into agriculture for food security and job creation. We’ll support farmers with incentives and inputs because the farming season is here,” he said.

Commending his impactful leadership in Ihitte Uboma, His Royal Highness, Eze Innocent Ukachukwu Onuoha, Ikpe I of Ikpenweafor and former Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers, lauded the Executive Chairman of Ihitte Uboma LGA for what he described as an outstanding and people-centered leadership.

“This is the first time I’m seeing an LGA chairman who truly lives among his people,” Eze Onuoha remarked. “Unlike the transitional chairmen we had in the past who operated from Owerri, this one resides in Umuihi and only goes to Owerri when necessary for official meetings.”

He recalled how in previous administrations, local leaders and stakeholders had to travel to Owerri to meet with the chairman. “Now, we have a chairman who is present and accessible. No matter when you visit the LGA Secretariat, you’ll find him there. He lives in his own house in Umuihi and has remained here despite the lingering security challenges.”

According to the royal father, the chairman’s availability has rekindled local governance and boosted community trust. “You can even call him at night and he will respond. He’s not like others who stay in cities and govern from afar. Since he assumed office, we’ve started holding regular security meetings — something we haven’t done in over nine years. Today, there is peace and a reasonable level of security in Ihitte Uboma. The situation has improved significantly.”

On infrastructure, Eze Onuoha commended the chairman for taking bold steps to restore the local government’s administrative facilities. “When he came in, the entire LGA Secretariat was overtaken by weeds, and most buildings were in ruins. But now, renovations are underway, and there’s massive work going on. The council hall, which had been converted into a commercial church, has been reclaimed.”

He also noted the chairman’s gradual implementation of his agricultural agenda. “He shared his plans with us in our last meeting, and we can already see him rolling them out progressively, according to the resources available. He is a man who ensures that what’s meant for the people gets to them. I’ve seen that for myself.”

The traditional ruler called on the people of Ihitte Uboma to rally behind the chairman. “He is doing well. May God grant him more wisdom as he works to restore Ihitte Uboma to its former glory, let’s give him the maximum support he deserves, we must be honest: some people may only think he’s doing well when he starts distributing money, but leadership is more than that. He is truly on course.” Eze Onuoha said.

The Chairman of Ndi Nze and Vice-Chairman of the Cabinet of the Umuihi Ancient Kingdom, Nze Anointing Ihediohanma, affirmed that urgent government intervention is needed in critical areas of infrastructure development, security, and agricultural empowerment.

Ihediohanma emphasised that Umuihi is primarily a farming community and is in dire need of government support to boost agricultural productivity. “We are predominantly farmers, and we need the government to come to our aid,” he said. “We are requesting support in the form of modern farming tools, hybrid seeds, agrochemicals, and training. These are essential to improve our yields and sustain our livelihoods.” the Chairman of Ndi Nze added.

Commending the efforts of the Local Government Chairman, Ihediohanma who is also the Special Adviser to the Honourable Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly on Community Development, said “Before now, it was difficult — almost impossible — to gather freely as a community due to the fear of insecurity. But today, that tide is gradually turning,” he said. “The Chairman has taken concrete steps toward restoring peace and stability, and we’re beginning to see results. With continued efforts and support, we believe total security will be achieved in due time. He has given us reasons to believe in his leadership.”

Ihediohanma reiterated the community’s readiness to cooperate with government agencies and development partners to ensure lasting peace and socio-economic growth. He appealed for more attention to rural infrastructure such as accessible roads, electricity, and health facilities, which he said are critical to both security and economic advancement.

“We’re not just asking—we’re ready to partner and play our part. But we need the government to show stronger presence in our rural communities,” he stated.

The Traditional ruler, Umuihi Ancient Kingdom, Eze Uwalaka, hailed the chairman’s leadership and recalled the historic significance of his emergence. “This is the first time since 1945 that someone from Umuihi is chairman of the LGA. Umuihi is host to key government properties, including the stadium, but never held the position until now,” he said.

He attributed Ndukwe’s victory to prayers and divine intervention, noting that peace has finally returned to Ihite Uboma. “Since he came, calm has returned. Security has been restored. People can now sleep in their homes again.”

As Ndukwe rounds out his first few months in office, the signs of progress are already visible, and for many in Ihite Uboma, hope has returned, Eze Uwalaka stated.