His Excellency, Hope Uzodinma, the Executive Governor of Imo State, has made remarkable strides in road construction, so visible that even the harshest critics cannot deny them. While the reconstruction of the Owerri/Orlu and Owerri/Okigwe roads attracted widespread praise, he went further to deliver the Owerri/Umuahia road, complete with solar-powered streetlights that have transformed night travel and enhanced safety for commuters.
The internal road network within Owerri has not been neglected either. Residents are particularly encouraged by the ongoing work on the ever-busy Douglas Road. Once completed, motorists and other road users will finally experience relief from the persistent congestion that has long plagued that major commercial artery. Beyond easing traffic, the project is expected to significantly boost economic activity in the state.
It is often argued in some quarters that only elected politicians such as Governor Hope Uzodinma should be called upon to present a scorecard, while appointees who were not elected should not be subjected to the same scrutiny.
If that argument is valid, then one fundamental question must be asked: is Hon. Miriam Onuoha elected or appointed?
If she is indeed an elected representative, then why has she failed to meaningfully complement the developmental efforts of the governor in ensuring that critical roads in Okigwe North receive attention? Why should the burden of infrastructure be left solely on the shoulders of the governor? Should the rehabilitation or reconstruction of some deplorable roads in Okigwe North not form part of her constituency responsibilities?
If Governor Hope Uzodinma can earn high marks for road rehabilitation and reconstruction, imagine the level of progress that would have been achieved if elected representatives such as Hon. Miriam Onuoha had matched his commitment with tangible action in their own constituencies.
It is precisely because of this glaring underperformance that the people of Okigwe North have overwhelmingly rejected any attempt by Hon. Miriam Onuoha to return to the Green Chamber for a third term.
Leadership is not sustained by slogans, media theatrics, or the assembly of countless aides to manufacture publicity. True performance speaks for itself. Across the country, citizens proudly share the achievements of representatives who have delivered visible dividends of democracy. Their scorecards circulate organically because their impact is undeniable.
In contrast, when a representative’s record remains unclear after years in office, and citizens are still compelled to demand evidence of achievement, it reveals a troubling absence of substance.
Okigwe North deserves a representative whose achievements are so visible that the people become the loudest promoters of that legacy, not a leader whose tenure is defined by endless explanations, repeated justifications, and unanswered questions.
The era of recycling underperformance must come to an end. A third term is not an entitlement; it is a privilege earned through measurable service. And where service has fallen short, the people have every right to demand change.
In the case of Okigwe North, a third term bid is a no go area, equity, justice and fairness demands that others should be given a chance.
Shalom!
MaduWuAgu