By Victor Nwachukwu
Owerri, the capital of Imo, has remained agog with fanfare as the state marked its 50th anniversary.
The streets of Owerri were overtaken by jubilant crowds chanting songs of celebration amid cultural and other displays.
It also reports that Imo was created on Feb. 3, 1976 by a former Military President of Nigeria, Murtala Mohammed.
The state, carved from the former East Central state, was first governed by Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, a naval officer.
He was appointed in March 1976 by Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo and served until 1977 when he was succeeded by Adekunle Lawal.
Drummers, cultural troupes and masquerade artists marched round the Orji, Douglas, Mbaise road and bank road as part of a road show before converging at the Okigwe Road roundabout, in front of Government House, as part of the festivities.
Speaking after the road show, the state’s Commissioner for Tourism, Mr Ernest Ibejiako, described the anniversary as “a celebration of greatness “, despite past challenges.
He praised the state governor , Sen. Hope Uzodinma, for rekindling development in the areas of education, commerce and tourism, through infrastructural development and the return of peace to Imo.
“ We are celebrating development, we are celebrating peace and happiness made possible today by former and present leaders of our dear state.
“ From Dee Sam Mbakwe, to our performing governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma, Imo has risen from grass to grace and the people are happy,” he said.
He urged Imo people to continue to support the state government and to remain committed to the development of the state.
It was further reports that activities lined up for the golden jubilee celebrations include a novelty match at the Dan Anyiam Stadium on Friday, and a grand finale on Saturday.
