By Peter Dibia
The recent rehabilitation of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council CPC building by the administration of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, stands as another visible demonstration of purposeful and people oriented governance in Imo State.
Beyond the physical renewal of a public facility, the intervention reflects a deeper commitment by the state government to strengthening institutions that directly protect the welfare, rights and economic interests of the people.
Consumer protection remains a critical but often overlooked aspect of governance, especially in a developing economy where citizens are frequently exposed to substandard goods, expired products, unfair trade practices and exploitative services.
By prioritising the rehabilitation of the CPC building, the Uzodimma administration has reaffirmed its belief that strong institutions are essential for effective service delivery and sustainable development.
The upgraded CPC facility now provides a more conducive environment for staff operations, consumer engagement, complaint resolution and regulatory coordination. It enhances professionalism, efficiency and public confidence in the Council as a frontline agency for safeguarding consumer rights in Imo State.
This development also aligns with the broader infrastructure renewal agenda of the present administration, which has seen strategic investments in public buildings, roads, healthcare facilities and educational institutions across the state.
Governor Hope Uzodimma has consistently demonstrated that governance must go beyond rhetoric to tangible action.
His approach to rebuilding state institutions has been anchored on functionality, accountability and service to the people. The rehabilitation of the CPC building fits seamlessly into this philosophy, ensuring that agencies tasked with public protection are not left to operate in neglect or decay.
Equally commendable is the leadership of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council under the Director General, Hon. Dr. Mrs. Obioma Okafor (Dr). Her administration has recorded remarkable achievements that have repositioned the Council as a responsive and proactive institution within the state’s governance framework.
The improved physical infrastructure now complements the strong administrative and policy direction she has provided since assuming office.
One of the most outstanding milestones under her leadership is the signing into law of the Imo State Consumer Protection Law.
This landmark achievement, accomplished during her administration, provides a solid legal framework for consumer rights protection, enforcement mechanisms and institutional authority. The law has strengthened the Council’s capacity to act decisively against offenders, regulate market practices and protect residents from economic exploitation.
Beyond the legal framework, the CPC under Hon. Dr. Mrs. Obioma Okafor (Dr) has intensified consumer education and awareness campaigns across urban and rural communities.
These initiatives have empowered Imo residents with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities as consumers, enabling them to make informed choices and report violations without fear or hesitation.
Market sensitisation programmes, stakeholder engagements and media outreach have become key tools in the Council’s operations.
The Council has also been active in monitoring markets and commercial centres, especially during festive periods when the circulation of fake, adulterated and expired products tends to increase. Through regular inspections, product seizures and collaboration with relevant security and regulatory agencies, the CPC has helped to reduce the influx of harmful goods and protect public health. These actions have saved countless households from economic loss and health risks.
Another notable achievement is the strengthening of complaint resolution mechanisms. Under the current leadership, the Council has improved its response time to consumer complaints, adopting more transparent and people friendly procedures.
Dispute resolution between consumers and service providers has been handled with fairness, professionalism and adherence to the law, reinforcing public trust in the institution.
The CPC has also played an advisory role to the state government on consumer related policies, pricing issues and service delivery standards. This consultative function ensures that consumer interests are considered in broader economic and social policy decisions.
It reflects a holistic understanding of governance where the welfare of the people remains central.
All these achievements would have been difficult to sustain without the enabling environment created by the Uzodimma administration.
By rehabilitating the CPC building, the governor has not only improved infrastructure but has also boosted staff morale and institutional capacity. It is a clear signal that agencies performing well and delivering value to the people will receive the support they deserve.
Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership continues to reflect a governance style that values institutions, rewards performance and prioritises the wellbeing of citizens. His intervention at the CPC is a reminder that effective consumer protection is a shared responsibility between government, institutions and the people.
It also underscores the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance where no sector is neglected.
In commending the governor, it is important to note that the impact of this rehabilitation will extend beyond the walls of the CPC building.
It will translate into better service delivery, stronger enforcement of consumer laws, increased public awareness and a safer marketplace for all Imo residents. These outcomes contribute directly to economic stability, public health and social trust.
As Imo State continues on its path of development, the collaboration between visionary political leadership and competent institutional management remains crucial.
The synergy between Governor Hope Uzodimma and the leadership of the CPC under Hon. Dr. Mrs. Obioma Okafor (Dr) offers a model of how governance should function in practice.
In conclusion, the rehabilitation of the Imo State Consumer Protection Council building is worthy of commendation. It symbolises progress, accountability and a genuine concern for the people.
It reinforces the administration’s legacy of rebuilding Imo State through strategic interventions and strong institutions. For this, the people of Imo State owe Governor Hope Uzodimma a debt of gratitude, even as they look forward to greater achievements in consumer protection and overall governance.
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