I'm gratified that Barr. Julius Abure, National Chairman of Labour Party and I were able to meet with the Imo State LP Stakeholders and the Governorship Aspirants in an interactive meeting on the way forward in Imo State.

It is heartbreaking that citizens who simply went out to exercise their civic duties and vote candidates of their choice were brutalized and attacked in such a horrendous and vicious manner.

Protection of lives and properties is the primary responsibility of government and this responsibility must be sacrosanct including in our dear country.

It is equally disheartening that the security agencies with the constitutional duty of preventing and detecting crime have not made the arrest of the criminals who perpetrated these brutal acts a primary focus,

During this very sombre time in our nation’s political history, I would like to enjoin our Muslim brothers and sisters as you begin the one month fasting, praying, and alms-giving during this holy month of Ramadan,

to have our dear country in mind as you ask for the forgiveness of our numerous shortcomings and transgressions, and seek for a special blessing for peace and Justice in our nation.

Very striking is the fact that this year’s Ramadan is starting at the time when the Christians are 26 days into their 40 days Lenten season which also involves fasting, praying and charity.

A while ago, I spoke with my brother, Dr. Alex Otti @alexottiofr, the Governor-elect of Abia State and heartily congratulated him on his election. I am gratified that the will and wish freely expressed by the Abia electorates have been respected.

I received reports of the fire outbreak in Main Market, Onitsha. Preliminary reports suggest that the fire started early in the morning today, and goods worth millions of Naira have been lost to the fire.

I am saddened by the occurrence of such an ugly incident. Beyond the State, the Main Market, Onitsha plays a vital role in the economy of the nation by boosting the volume of trade in the nation.

While I appreciate that the freedoms must be exercised in line with the rule of law, arresting Nigerians for tweeting on their leaders and those in authority decimates the opportunity for inclusive governance and accountability which are highly needed in a developing

country like Nigeria. As we are all Nigerians and Nigeria is our only country, we must continue to make efforts to build a better Nation where justice, fairness, equity, tolerance, prosperity,

accountable leadership and rule of law shall reign with no Nigerian feeling suppressed or oppressed. As leaders, it is important for us to know that there are several consequences of occupying public office. For instance,

citizens will have their different thoughts on us and we have the right to reply. Arbitrary use of our office or in unrestrained way will do no one any good, including those in authority.