Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo has presented a cheque reward of N185m to the families of gallant officers who lost their lives in the discharge of duties in the State.
The benefiting security agencies include the Police, Army, Navy, DSS, NSCDC, NDLEA, Immigration among other Para-Military agencies in the state
Presenting the cheque to affected families on Monday at the Government House Chapel Owerri, the Governor said that the money is in appreciation of those who died and those who were injured at various times and occasions in the course of protecting lives and properties of the state
Uzodimma recalled the ugly incident of 19th September 2023 where members of Operation Search and Flush were ambushed at Ehime Mbano LGA of Imo State and killed while some were injured.
He also recalled other cases with other security agencies at various times that also led to the death of some officers while some were injured.
He said: “But as a sign of gratitude that the Government of Imo State has decided to appreciate the sacrifices which our offices are doing to protect our state”.
Blaming insecurity in Imo State to activities of non-state actors who have either lost sense of patriotism and never care what happenes to their brothers and sisters, the Governor declared that the situation in Imo state is beyond what people think
The Governor recalled that this is not the first time the government is doing this, however assured the determination of the government to continue to create motivation and providing incentives to these men and women who have put their lives in front to protect the state.
While congratulating and commending them, the Governor expressed deep appreciation for the gallant officers and the work they do in the state, while assuring the resolve of the state government and the state to continue to give them all necessary assistance and encouragement to ensure that the primary purpose of government which is securing lives and properties of the state is guaranteed.
Responding to the appreciation of the Governor, an officer from the Nigerian Immigration Services Ume Lawrence paid special tribute to the Governor for what he called compassionate compensation and unalloyed support to the security agencies in the state
Lawrence equally expressed satisfaction with heads of different families, friends and well wishers for their steady prayers.
He regretted the loss of their colleagues who he acknowledged to have been together at work before their death
The Immigration officer however assured not to relent to fight and discharge their duties gallantly for the protection of lives and properties in the State.
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