By Ifeanyichukwu Ibe
The Councilor representing Iheme Ward in Ideato North Local Government Area, Hon. Kanu Kenechukwu Chimaobi, has expressed gratitude to Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for what he described as a historic Christmas celebration marked by peace, safety, and renewed confidence across the Ideato North axis.
Addressing the press yesterday, January 11, at his country home, Ikpeze Uno Arondizuogu in ideato North LGA, Hon. Kanu stated that for many years, Christmas festivities in Ideato North, particularly in communities around the Arondizuogu and Okigwe axis, were disrupted by insecurity, forcing many indigenes to stay away from their ancestral homes.
According to him, fear and uncertainty had replaced the joy traditionally associated with the festive season, stating that “Sons and daughters of our land fled their ancestral homes, singing Old Soldier’s sorrowful songs of exile — “Oh my home, oh my home, when shall I see my home?” — as insecurity held our communities hostage.”
He noted, however, that the just-concluded 2025 Christmas marked a significant turning point, as families returned in large numbers to celebrate in their villages. “Homes were filled, roads were busy with travelers, and communities came alive with music, laughter, and celebration,” the visibly elated councilor enthused.
Hon. Kanu further emphasized that the festive period passed without reports of kidnappings, panic-induced stampedes, or fear-driven curfews. He added that no gunshots were heard and no abduction or rescue incidents were recorded, describing the season as one of the most peaceful Christmas celebrations Ideato North has experienced in many years.
According to him, the improved security situation did not occur by chance. He attributed the development to the decisive and strategic efforts of Governor Hope Uzodimma in tackling insecurity across Imo State, particularly in previously volatile areas of Ideato North.
He also commended the Chairman of Ideato North Local Government Area, Hon. Architect Chukwunonso Okpareke, for his grassroots leadership and effective collaboration with the state government, which he said helped translate the governor’s security vision into tangible results at the local level.
Beyond security, Hon. Kanu praised Governor Uzodimma for the ongoing Umu-Chima Akokwa–Uga Road project, noting that it significantly reduced travel challenges for residents and returning indigenes during the festive period. He stated that the improved road network eased movement, enhanced access to communities, and contributed to a season without recorded road accidents.
The councilor described the peaceful Christmas celebration as more than a festive event, saying it symbolized a return of confidence, unity, and a sense of belonging among the people of Ideato North.
His words: “This Christmas marked more than a celebration; it marked a return of confidence, unity, and belonging. Our people came home without fear. They celebrated without anxiety. They slept peacefully.”
“For this, I say a very big thank you to our dear Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, and to Hon. Architect Chukwunonso Okpareke for complementing His Excellency’s good works in Ideato North LGA.”
“May this peace be sustained. May development continue to deepen. And may Ideato North remain a place where our people can always return home in joy, safety, and pride,” Hon. Kanu concluded, soliciting continous support for the government at the state and LGA levels.
