Dr. Chima Matthew Amadi, the Action People’s Party (APP) candidate for the Imo East Senatorial District, has voiced deep concern over the escalating violence and loss of lives in Ihiagwa and Eziobodo, two communities in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State.
In a statement released on Friday by his media aide, Cajetan Duke, Amadi described the situation as heartbreaking, alarming, and totally unacceptable. He extended his condolences to bereaved families, those who sustained injuries, and all residents now living in constant dread as criminal activities spread across various parts of the state.
The aspirant asserted that no responsible administration should permit law-abiding citizens to become easy prey for criminals while communities remain defenseless and neglected. He pointed out that the persistent attacks and growing lawlessness in many areas of Imo indicate a troubling deterioration in governance and a lack of commitment by leaders to prioritize the security and well-being of the populace.
Amadi expressed regret that, amid fear, economic struggles, and uncertainty among the people, the state government appears more focused on internal political maneuvers and national political calculations than addressing the urgent security challenges facing the state. He emphasized that effective governance requires a strong presence, responsiveness, and strategic leadership, particularly when citizens look to the government for safety and reassurance.
He further stressed that protecting lives and property is the government’s primary duty and must never be compromised by political distractions or personal ambitions. According to him, the absence of visible and proactive governance has created gaps that criminals are exploiting to terrorize innocent residents across numerous communities.
Amadi called on security agencies to step up efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the attacks, while also enhancing security surveillance and intelligence gathering in vulnerable areas.