… Calls for prayers for government
Governor Hope Uzodimma has called on Nigerians, and the Christian faithful in particular, to embrace love, sacrifice, and unity as the foundation for national growth, suggesting that they could not do less as a way to reciprocating the death of Jesus Christ on the Cross for their sake.
He also expressed optimism about the country’s economic recovery under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu despite the challenges Nigerians may be facing.
Speaking on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026,
at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Omuma, Oru East LGA, Imo State, the Governor described Easter as “the anchor of our faith,” stressing that Christ’s resurrection symbolises the ultimate sacrifice and a call to selfless living.
“If we truly practice that love, the world will be a better place… our communities will be harmonious, and our nation will be prosperous,” Uzodimma said.
Acknowledging current economic challenges, he attributed them partly to global uncertainties but assured Nigerians that reforms by the Tinubu administration were yielding results. “The reforms are working… the economy is being recovered,” he stated, while urging citizens to support the government through prayers and cooperation.
Highlighting achievements in Imo State, Uzodimma said his administration had restored peace and driven development, citing road construction, youth empowerment, and improved infrastructure.
He noted that over 60,000 youths had been trained in digital skills, while thousands of artisans had been empowered.
“With the return of peace, progress has followed,” he said, adding that his government was committed to inclusive prosperity and improved living standards.
The Governor urged Christians to reflect deeply on the Easter message by showing love, kindness, forgiveness, and service to others.
“Let us be our brother’s keepers… and live as Christ lived – in love, humility, and service,” he said.
He wished Nigerians a peaceful and blessed Easter.
Earlier in his homily, the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Thomas Obiatuegwu, described the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the ultimate triumph of good over evil and light over darkness, noting that Christ’s resurrection fulfilled God’s promise to humanity and affirmed victory over death.
“Christ has risen as He promised… the battle is over; no more fear, no more darkness,” he declared.
He explained that unlike human beings who meticulously plan their burial, Christ “only borrowed the tomb for three days,” highlighting the temporary nature of death through the resurrection.
Bishop Obiatuegwu emphasised that Easter symbolises hope, peace, and patience, urging Christians to remain steadfast in truth and righteousness despite challenges.
He noted that “death has no more power over us,” as Christ’s victory assures eternal life for believers.
The bishop called on the faithful to live as true children of God, embracing justice, love, and sincerity.
“Even if truth and goodness are suppressed, remain faithful… for God’s promise of resurrection and eternal joy remains certain,” he said.
Present at the Church Service were, the wife of the Governor Her Excellency, Barr Chioma Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor of the State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru and her husband, the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe and other members of the House of Assembly; senators representing Owerri, Okigwe and Orlu Zones – Senators Ezenwa Onyewuchi, Patrick Ndubueze and Osita Izunaso, the State Party Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Austin Onyedebelu and his executive members, as well as the Anambara State APC Chairman, Chief Fidelis Anosike who came to show solidarity.
Others are the members of the Expanded State Executive Council, Imo State Local Government Council Chairmen led by Engr IKenna Adikibe (ALGON Chairman), traditional rulers, leaders and stakeholders of the State, captains of industry, Christian faithful and the media.
