PREAMBLE

In pursuit of lasting peace, unity and sustainable development in Okigwe Zone, the Okigwe Council of Traditional Rulers convened a landmark Peace and Unity Summit on Saturday, 25th October 2025, at Obowo LGA Headquarters, Otoko. The Summit united traditional rulers, political leaders, community heads, women and youth leaders, clergy and academics in a spirit of mutual respect and shared vision.

After extensive deliberations and reflections on the challenges and opportunities facing the Zone, Okigwe peolple declared and resolved as follows:

1.Unity and Oneness

The Summit reaffirmed that the strength and progress of Okigwe Zone—comprising Okigwe, Onuimo, Isiala Mbano, Ehime Mbano, Ihitte Uboma, and Obowo—rests on unity. Ndi Okigwe, at home and in the diaspora, resolved to embrace one another as a single family, guided by shared heritage, destiny, and the collective pursuit of the common good.

2.Spirit of “Onye Mara Nwanne Ya”

Ndi Okigwe recommitted to the Igbo principle that everyone is their brother’s keeper. We shall deepen empathy, solidarity, and mutual support across all communities, ensuring no part of Okigwe is left behind. Unity, love and shared responsibility are the bedrock of enduring peace and sustainable development.

3.Peaceful Coexistence with Sister Zones

Okigwe people pledge to live in harmony with Orlu and Owerri zones, recognizing that our progress is tied to the peace and prosperity of all Imo. We will strengthen cooperation, dialogue, and partnerships to advance the common good of the state.

4.Commitment to Hard Work and Lawfulness

Ndi Okigwe reaffirm their reputation for diligence, integrity and discipline. Sons and daughters of the zone shall remain industrious, law-abiding, and committed to community development, rejecting idleness and divisiveness.

5.Post-Summit Committees

Six committees were established to drive the zone’s advancement: Summit Resolution Implementation; Youth and Women Empowerment; Education, Culture & Umu Ada; Economic Development; Political Affairs and Peace; and Climate Change & Agriculture.

6.Comendation of Governor Uzodinma and the Sustenance of His Legacy

The Summit warmly commends His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, CON, for upholding and modernizing the developmental legacies of our illustrious son Dee Sam Onunaka Mbakwe, the first Executive Governor of Imo State. By continuing Mbakwe’s vision of integrity, people-centered governance and infrastructural development, Governor Uzodinma has strengthened the foundation for a greater Imo.

We, Ndi Okigwe in this regard proudly affirm that our Zone — which produced Dee Sam Mbakwe — is best positioned to sustain and advance Governor Uzodinma’s achievements when he leaves office. Our deep connection to these legacies and commitment to development make us the natural custodians of his vision.

7 .Vote of Confidence on the Governor

After careful assessment of his leadership, Ndi Okigwe unanimously reaffirm our unwavering support for *His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, CON. Through his equitable policies, transformative projects, and demonstrated partnership with our zone, he has earned our full trust and loyalty. On this foundation, *we, the people of Okigwe, pass a resounding VOTE OF IMPLICIT CONFIDENCE om His Excellency, the Governor*.

8. Support for Governor’s Programmes

The Summit commended Governor Uzodinma’s halmark programmes, signature projects and premier initiatives especially in the areas of security, Health Insurance scheme and subscription to the ongoing Voter Registration Exercise.

CONCLUSION

The Summit concluded with optimism, solidarity, and renewed commitment to peace, unity, and progress. Ndi Okigwe stand determined to advance brotherhood, justice, and collective development—a united Okigwe for a greater Imo State.

Signed

For and on behalf of the Okigwe Council of Traditional Rulers and Ndi Okigwe in general.