3rd July, 2015
Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo has described the ECOWAS Court of Justice as a landmark achievement in the history of the sub-regional body.
Okorocha made the remark in Owerri on Friday when a delegation of ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, led by its President, Justice Maria Do Ceu Sylva Monteiro, paid him a visit.
He said the law court was very vital for the unity of ECOWAS.
The governor said the need for African unity, particularly that of the ECOWAS community, could not be over-emphasised.
He called for African nations, particularly ECOWAS, to think of a common language outside French and English that would unite them for business and development.
He commended the president of the ECOWAS Court for her leadership qualities and for making African women proud.
“I believe that this is the time for Africa. The days we have suffered from colonialism and neo- colonialism are over.
“African must look inward and leaders of Africa must show quality leadership,” he said.
The governor pointed out that with the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari, change had started in Nigeria.
He assured African nations that Nigeria would no longer be a sleeping giant but would rise and take its rightful place.
Earlier, Silva Monteiro expressed gratitude to the governor for the warm welcome.
She said they were in Imo for a 12-day working visit as part of the court’s seventh retreat.