Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has come under intense criticism for what has been described as a “belated, insensitive, and unconvincing” response to the gruesome killings in Arondizuogu, a community in Imo State attacked by gunmen on July 25, 2025.
The Mazi Organization (TMO), a socio-political group based in the state, issued a scathing statement signed by its spokesman, Cajethan Duke, accusing the governor of abandoning his core responsibilities as Chief Security Officer of the state and reacting to a deadly massacre only after public outcry made silence untenable.
The group said the governor’s remarks at the Government House Chapel on Sunday, August 3, were “drab,” “tardy,” and “an afterthought,” lacking the empathy and urgency expected of a leader in crisis.
“Good leaders are visible, responsive and take swift action in times of tragedy. What Uzodimma has shown is a disturbing detachment from the pain and reality of the people he claims to lead,”
“This is not leadership; this is political aloofness dressed up in ceremonial robes.” the statement read.
TMO questioned why it took over a week for the governor to comment on the Arondizuogu attack, noting that in other states, governors cancel engagements or rush home to console victims and reassure their people.
“Uzodimma, instead, was gallivanting across the country doing ‘aseobi’ and national politicking,” the group alleged.
TMO also condemned the governor for failing to visit the grieving community or provide financial or emotional support to bereaved families.
“This is a man who handed out N30 million and land to Super Falcons players but cannot spare a visit to families who lost their loved ones to bullets and terror,” the statement added.
TMO said Uzodimma’s belated mention of an arrest related to the Ideato North killings lacked transparency, especially as he failed to name the suspect or provide credible updates.
“Is this a cover-up? Or just another attempt to pacify an already disillusioned populace?” the group queried.
According to the organization, conflicting statements from state officials have worsened public distrust.
“The same time Arondizuogu was bleeding, Uzodimma’s commissioner was abroad telling stakeholders Imo is peaceful. That contradiction alone speaks volumes,” the group said.
TMO urged the governor to “stop playing politics with the lives of Imo people” and demanded a more hands-on, decisive approach to curbing the security crisis that has plagued the state in recent years.
“Enough of these veiled reassurances, unnamed suspects, and delayed press statements. Imo people deserve a leader who leads from the front, not from political event halls,” TMO declared.
The organization called on citizens to remain calm and vigilant, promising that a better future lies ahead.
“We believe the darkest moment in Imo’s history will soon pass. The Mazi Organization is coming with a new roadmap—one that listens, acts, and delivers,” the group concluded.
