Demolition: Soludo orders sanction of task force officer for manhandling Odumeje

Demolition: Soludo orders sanction of task force officer for manhandling Odumeje

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has ordered that disciplinary actions be taken against the personnel involved in the manhandling of Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere (Odumeje) during Thursday’s demolition of the cleric’s church.

Odumeje’s church was in April this year marked for demolition, in line with Onitsha Urban Renewal Plan spearheaded by the Soludo-led administration.

During Thursday’s demolition exercise, Odumeje was manhandled by security agencies who accompanied the demolition team following his attempt to stop the officials from carrying out the exercise.

A viral video had showed the comic cleric being manhandled by security men, including police officers and men of the vigilante services.

He was severally slapped and restricted from moving to the demolition area by armed security men.

The cleric’s attack was greeted with mixed reactions, with many condemning the attack and describing it as unfair.

Others however viewed it as a welcome development, alleging that he had several times invaded and destroyed shrines considered sacred and known to be places of worship.

But Soludo, in a statement, condemned the brutalization of the cleric, just as he regretted what he described as unprofessional manner displayed by the officer.

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 the people of the state for their understanding, the governor noted that it “takes audacious steps towards making our Anambra a livable 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 actualise 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.”

Meanwhile, Odumeje has taken to his page on Instagram to react to the recent development, urging his church members not to be distracted. He added that the activities of the church will go on as usual.