Ibekimi Oriamaja Reports
Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo has ordered disciplinary action against those involved in the mistreatment of Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere (Odumeje) during the church demolition on Thursday.
Odumeje’s church was scheduled for demolition in April as part of the Soludo administration’s Onitsha Urban Renewal Plan.
Odumeje was abused by security personnel accompanying the demolition team during Thursday’s exercise after attempting to prevent the officials from carrying out the exercise.
A viral video depicted the comic cleric being abused by security personnel such as cops and vigilantes.
Armed security guards slapped him and refused to let him into the demolition zone.
The cleric’s attack elicited mixed reactions, with many condemning it as unjust.
Others, however, saw it as a positive development, claiming he had repeatedly invaded and destroyed sacred shrines known to be places of worship.
Soludo, on the other hand, condemned the cleric’s brutalization in a statement.
He apologized for the officer’s unprofessional behavior.
He said: “Yesterday’s outing has evoked emotions, not against the decision of government, but the imperfect and unprofessional manner with which one of the task force members discharged his lawful duty.
“This is highly regretted, and would never happen again. I have instructed that the task force personnel involved in the manhandling of Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere (Odumeje) be treated in accordance with the rules of public conduct which he roundly failed to uphold.”
Appreciating residents for their understanding, the Governor noted that it “takes audacious steps towards making our Anambra a liveable and prosperous homeland.”
He added: “On this journey, imperfect steps will be taken, emotions will run wild and opinions will grow thick. What is pertinent to note is that we shall remain undaunted, correct our imperfections, strive to put our emotions in check and aggregate opinions that are in the interest of our overall good.
“We will continue to work to actualize the mandate you have given to us. Nothing short of the best outcomes is guaranteed. On behalf of the government and good people of Anambra State, I condemn the assault, and further ask for your continued support in the fight to restore the dignity of Onitsha, and indeed the totality of our Homeland.”
