By CHARLES IWUOHA

A political group, The Mazi Organization (TMO), has called on Governor Hope Uzodimma of lmo state to protect the citizens of the state to which he was sworn, or quit office.

The organization was reacting to a shocking viral video showing Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, where he was held hostage by bandits and in the process of which numerous communities were seized.

The horrific incident, according to the group, is a stark reminder of the unresolved kidnap of the Okigwe Zonal Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Kenneth Nwachukwu, earlier this year, and other similar incidents that were not publicized.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the group's Spokesperson, Mr. Cajetan Duke, the group stated that the rampant insecurity that has engulfed lmo state has turned the peaceful areas into zones of terror, and that lawlessness is totally unacceptable.

It noted that the video of a distinguished citizen of the state, a former Local Government Chairman of Okigwe Local Government Area, and a legislator at the mercy of criminals, was a disgrace and the height of willful assault on our collective psyche as a people, and a direct challenge to the safety of every Imo citizen.

"TMO stands firmly with Hon. Ogbu, his family, and all affected communities, in demanding his immediate and safe release and an end to the reign of terror in Imo State.

"This heartbreaking development underscores the utter collapse of governance in Okigwe LGA and its environs – where bandits operate with impunity, unchecked by any meaningful state intervention.

"The failure to protect prominent but vulnerable citizens like Hon. Ogbu also reveals a catastrophic breakdown in the security apparatus – leaving Imo citizens insecure and hopeless.”

The organization stated that this latest ugly incident is not merely a singular event but a glaring consequence of systemic neglect, where the safety of Imo residents has been sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.

"The people deserve something better – they deserve a government that prioritizes their safety and well-being.

According to the statement, the Uzodimma-led administration’s claim of securing lives and properties in Imo State has been exposed as blatant falsehood by this latest tragic development.

"Indeed, the kidnap of Hon. Ogbu and takeover of entire Imo communities by bandits shatter the illusion of safety peddled by the state government.

"The provision of security for Imo Citizens and residents is one of the core and fundamental duties of government – therefore, Governor Uzodimma must either take decisive actions to restore security in the state or step aside for leadership capable of addressing this existential crisis. Empty promises will no longer suffice in the face of such brazen criminality.

"TMO demands urgent and coordinated action from state to secure Hon. Ngozi Ogbu’s safe release and dismantle the criminal network terrorizing every part of the state.

"This requires robust intelligence operations, strengthened security deployments, and genuine collaboration with local communities to root out banditry. We call for transparency in these efforts and accountability for any lapses that have allowed this crisis to fester. The safety of Imo citizens and residents must be non-negotiable, and TMO will not rest until tangible results are achieved.

"While we continue to condemn every act of insecurity and banditry in Imo State, TMO remains resolute in holding the Uzodimma administration accountable for the unabating security challenges. We will relentlessly advocate comprehensive reforms, including investment in critical infrastructure in rural communities, creation of employment opportunities for Imo youths, effective local government administration in line with the Supreme Court judgement on financial autonomy, community policing, empowerment of local security initiatives, and a clear strategy to reclaim areas currently controlled by bandits.

"The people of Imo State deserve a government that acts with urgency and competence, not one that hides behind excuses while lives are being lost.

"We therefore call on Governor Uzodimma to live up to his responsibilities much in line with his oath of office and protect Imo citizens or quit.

"We equally urge civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and the international community to amplify this demand for decisive action.

"The Mazi Organization will continue to stand with the people of Imo State in defence of their right to live in peace and security.

"We therefore call for unity across Imo political divide in rejecting complacency and pushing for a future where no citizen lives in fear. The time for action is now – Imo State must be reclaimed from the grip of banditry and terror.”