Two days after his nomination, Prince Eze Madumere, erstwhile Chief of Staff to Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, was this morning sworn-in as the state’s new deputy governor.

Madumere, who replaces the impeached Sir Jude Agbaso, was sworn-in around 10:45 a.m. as the sixth Deputy Governor of Imo State by the state Chief Judge, Justice Benjamin Njemanze.

In his speech after taking the oath of office in Oweri, the state capital, Madumere said: “Circumstances have made me today a Deputy Governor of Imo State. To God be the glory. I was comfortable with my job as Chief of Staff to the Governor, which kept me in close contact and relationship with His Excellency, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, OON, who for long has been my remained my mentor and leader. . . . Here I am standing before you, taking an oath as the Deputy Governor of Imo State.”

He assured that his task as the state’s number two man would be easy because he is an apostle of Okorocha’s Rescue Mission Government. He promised to remain focused and committed to the doctrines of the Rescue Mission Government while abiding by the Rochanomics leadership principle.

Madumere promised to remain a humble servant as he knows the dangers of power and its transitory nature.

He called for partnership of cabinet members and other appointees whom he described as colleagues. The new deputy governor further sought the cooperation of other arms of the government requesting their partnership to move Imo State forward.

He however wished his immediate predecessor, Sir Jude Agbaso, well despite the unpleasant circumstances that saw him out of office. (Agbaso was impeached for alleged bribe-taking).

Madumere’s swearing-in was well attended despite short notice. Among dignitaries at the occasion are the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ben Uwajumogu, members of the expanded EXCO with traditional rulers and other associates, friends and well wishers was colourful.

In his remarks, Governor Okorocha said he chose Prince Madumere as his new deputy because of his belief in selfless service and sacrifices for which Rescue Mission Government is known. He reiterated his confidence in Prince Madumere and encouraged him to remain resolute in the path of honour, while wishing the erstwhile deputy governor well in his future endearvours.

•Photo: New Imo Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere.