The Imo State governorship candidate of the Labour Party, Athan Achonu, has made a heartfelt plea to aggrieved Igbo youths, especially in Imo, to put an end to the bloodshed in the region. Achonu stressed that it is unwise for Ndi Igbo to turn against each other in the name of Biafra agitation.
During his local government campaigns in Ikeduru Local Government and Ezuruezu Mbaise, both in Imo State, Achonu addressed large crowds of Imo residents. Drawing from his personal experience, he recounted his sacrifices in fighting for the security and wellbeing of the Igbo people during the Biafra war, even losing an arm in the process. Achonu urged today’s youth to refrain from killing their fellow Igbo, whom they claim to be fighting for.
He encouraged the aggrieved youths to abandon their armed activities and embrace peace. Achonu vowed to create opportunities that would empower them to create wealth for themselves and leave behind the frustrations that led them down the path of violence.
“We will bring back our brothers who have taken refuge in the bush. We will provide ample opportunities for everyone to thrive,” he declared.
While expressing concern over the state’s worrisome security situation, Senator Achonu reiterated that the solution lies within the establishment of local vigilantes. He promised to create local vigilante groups in every local government, emphasizing that with the involvement of locals, criminal activities will be eradicated, as criminals do not fall from the sky.
Addressing his political aspirations and plans for transforming the state, Achonu revealed his commitment to ensuring 24-hour electricity across all parts of Imo State within one year of assuming office. He emphasized the abundance of gas resources in the state, which could be harnessed in collaboration with the private sector to deliver reliable power supply to the people.
Furthermore, Achonu pledged to create industrial parks that would generate significant employment opportunities and engage the youths, leaving them with no time to indulge in criminal activities.
“Each senatorial zone in Imo State will have two industrial parks, which will boost the rural economies, create jobs, and provide a meaningful livelihood for our people,” he stated.
Achonu urged Igbo businesspeople to consider investing in their homeland and protect themselves from recurring losses caused by their envious hosts outside Igbo land.
Reiterating his commitment to good governance, Achonu promised to conduct a free and fair local government election within six months of assuming office. He vowed to protect the funds allocated to local government administrations and ensure their autonomy.
