The retired military officers of Imo State origin have thrown their weight behind the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emeka Ihedioha.
The group, under the aegis of, Retired Army, Navy and Airforce Officers Association, (RANAO) Imo State chapter, during a visit to Ihedioha in Owerri, Wednesday, said, they had identified him as the man, best suited to lead Imo at this time towards achieving the much desired rebuilding of the state.
Speaking at the parley, the chairman of the association, Group Captain Charles Orizu said, “We are here to personally convey our resolve to endorse your candidature for the governorship position of our dear state.
“What informed this position is not far-fetched, we have observed and indeed appraised other governorship candidates of other political parties and noted with satisfaction your outstanding credentials, integrity, experience, capacities and more importantly, your depth understanding of the challenges bedeviling our state.
“We are not in doubt about your leadership qualities which have distinguished you as a man of impeccable character such that since leaving office as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, there has not been any form of harassment by security agents on allegation of abuse of office or graft. We are certain that you will run an inclusive government that will see to the recovery of the lost glory of the state.”
In his reaction, the former Deputy Speaker said, “I am indeed very humbled by this visit and the endorsement of my candidature for the governorship of our state. I have received endorsements from several groups, individuals and organizations but I must say that I consider this endorsement very critical in every sense of it, especially by very senior citizens of our state from an institution I respect so much. I want to assure you that, I will not fail you and the people of Imo State who have demonstrated very strong desire to elect a government that will be responsible and accountable to them.”
Ihedioha has received endorsements from notable groups such as, Olu Owerri, Imo Mandate Movement, Imo Liberation Movement, Owerri Zone Leadership Forum, Okigwe Youth Mandate, Imo Good Governance Movement etc.
Other members of the RANAO at the occasion include Major General Rowland Ogbonna, Brigadier General Felix Alily, Col. Lambert Iheanacho, Col.N. N. Njoku, Col. E. Emelike, Col. (Dr.) R. N. Oputa, Group Captain Canice Ohadumere.