Traditional rulers from Onuimo Local Government Area of Imo State, led by their Chairman, HRH Eze C. N. Eze, have commended the lawmaker representing Onuimo at the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. James Uba Esile, popularly known as “Fresh Air”, describing him as an outstanding and performing legislator.
The Royal Fathers gave the commendation during an interactive session held in Owerri, where Hon. Esile briefed them on his legislative activities, policy initiatives, and constituency programmes which is the latest among his usual interactive sessions since assuming office.
Addressing the Traditional Rulers, Hon. Esile explained that the meeting was convened to account for his stewardship, and to thank the Traditional Rulers for maintaining peace in Onuimo and to keep faith with the people who entrusted him with the mandate. “The essence of this interactive session as usual is to intimate you of my activities at the House of Assembly where you sent me to represent you. I have ensured that I remain faithful to my campaign promises, and also by supporting the 3R administration led by His Excellency, Dist. Senator Dr. Hope Uzodimma, CON, the executive Governor of Imo State,” he said.
Hon. Esile disclosed that he has sponsored and co-sponsored several bills, notable among them: A law for the protection of public utilities and infrastructure across Imo State. A law mandating the Ministry of Information and Public Orientation to activate grassroots public enlightenment agencies to sensitize citizens on government policies and programmes. A bill for the establishment of the Imo State Film Village, envisioned as an academy, world-class studio, and event centre to promote arts, culture, and tourism.
He noted that the Film Village, when assented to by the governor, would create thousands of jobs, improve professional certification, and stimulate infrastructural development in Onuimo LGA, including roads, electricity, and other public amenities.
Hon. Esile also briefed the Royal Fathers on major projects of the Uzodimma administration, including: The Owerri–Okigwe Road, which traverses over seven local governments, including Onuimo. Ongoing rural road upgrades across all 27 LGAs. Power infrastructure projects across the Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe zones. Development of motor parks as transit hubs, borehole projects, market reconstruction, and improved community health facilities.
He further applauded the governor for strengthening security through the equipping of security agencies and the recent approval for the recruitment of youths across communities as local vigilantes and that no meaningful development can take place without having peace and unity.
The lawmaker disclosed that he supported the Imo State Free Health Programme by enrolling over 200 Onuimo indigenes, each valued at ₦15,000, granting them free access to healthcare services for one year at designated health centres.
Other constituency interventions highlighted include: Financial support to parents for WAEC and JAMB registrations. Facilitation of admissions for Onuimo youths into tertiary institutions. Skill acquisition programmes, including the enrollment of over 200 youths in a Heavy-Duty Truck Driving License Programme, enabling global employability. Sponsorship of the Onuimo Football Tournament, with plans to upgrade cash prizes and incentives for the 2025 edition.
In their responses, the Traditional Rulers unanimously praised Hon. Esile for his dedication, accessibility, and effective representation. They offered prayers for his continued good health, wisdom, and prosperity for the benefit of their communities. In a symbolic gesture, the Royal Fathers invited the lawmaker to kneel for royal blessings and urged him to prepare for higher political office, pledging their full support for any future political aspiration.
They also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for his achievements, the peaceful environment in the state, and the successful hosting of the Imo State Economic Summit.
Those present at the meeting included HRH Eze C. N. Eze, Chairman, Onuimo LGA Traditional Rulers Council and Community Policing, alongside other traditional rulers from across the local government area.
Report By Fredrick Njoku