Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has described himself as the most blackmailed politician in Nigeria.
He made the statement during a gala night organised by the Governor for the Nigerian Guild of Editors to round up the 18th All Nigeria Editors Conference, (ANEC) 2022 in Owerri.
In his address, Uzodimma called for objective thinking and reportage as well as constructive criticism of his administration.
He also advocated stronger ties between the media and the political class to usher in more development.
The governor said democracy has proven to be the best form of governance anywhere in the world.
“It is also given that for democracy to triumph, the political class and government cannot do much without the media.
“All I ask of you is the understanding of the essence of democracy in any jurisdiction.
“I ask of you to understand the need to protect our land, national interests, be focused and objective, and for us to create a convivial environment for every stakeholder to contribute to national development,” he said.
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Uzodimma also urged the media and editors to change and correct the wrong perception and narratives being created about Africa by foreign media.
He expressed consternation that Nigeria’s democracy was still described as “nascent’’ even after many years of uninterrupted democracy.
“I want to plead with you to take courage; it may not look like what you are expecting, but there is hope for Nigeria.
“We must stop spending money and energy lamenting on the nation’s problems, but rather proffer solutions,’’ he stressed.
In his remarks, President of the Guild, Mr Mustapha Isah commended the lofty projects executed by the governor, particularly the Owerri-Orlu Road, Owerri-Okigwe Road, and the state House of Assembly complex.
Isah urged the governor to remain focused and disregard the antics of detractors.
The president also advised the governor to spread the money of the state in providing for the elderly people.