31 May 2019 News Corner 2202 Views

We Have No Hand in Demolition of Akachi Statue –Imo Govt

Contrary to reports making rounds in Owerri on May 30, 2019, the Government of Imo State has stressed that it has no hand in the pulling down of the giant Akachi statue Along Aba Road, Owerri.

The Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Mr Steve Osuji stated this in a press release during the heat of the speculation that the Governor, Rt Hon. Emeka Ihedioha ordered the demolition.

He said “It needs to be reiterated that the Imo State government under Governor Emeka Ihedioha has no hand in the attempt to pull down the Akachi statue. If government deems it necessary to pull down the statue or any structure for that matter, it would be done properly and in accordance with the law.”

“Does it stand to reason that a government that is barely 24 hours old, with no handover notes whatsoever and without an office to work from yet would concern itself with an ordinary statue? Let it be known that the new government in Imo State has its eyes set on nobler goals which includes fast-tracking the rebuilding of Imo State”, Osuji expressed.

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According to reports, Imo people seem to have nursed a loathing for the statue right from the beginning, considering it a monument that bears little or no benefit to the people of the state.

It was gathered that about noon on Thursday, a group of people besieged the Akachi statue hacking at it and trying to pull it down, apparently acting in pent up anger.

The Special Adviser who advised Imolites to be law abiding at all times said the governor is poised to bringing about the desirable change in the state.

“Government seizes this opportunity to warn Imo people to desist from unruly behavior and remain law abiding as anyone caught breaking the law would be prosecuted. The security agencies have been put on alert to maintain law and order across the state.”

The Akachi statue is a massive monument of about 50 feet with hand pointing heavenward but not many in Imo quite understand the significance as built by the out-gone governor, Rochas Okorocha.

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