The Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo has assured Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere popularly known as ‘Odumeje’ that officials of the state task force who mistreated him during the demolition of church will not go unpunished.
Soludo who made this known in a statement on Friday via his verified Facebook page said his government is committed to upholding law, order and respecting human rights in the state.
Recall that some parts of the building belonging to Odumeje’s Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, was demolished by officials of the Anambra State Task Force on Thursday.
In a viral video seen by Truthlive.net, when the officials arrived the church to enforce the demolition, Odumeje tried to stop them leading to a fracas between him and some of the task force officials.
In an attempt to effect the demolition, officers could be seen pushing, hitting and rough handling Odumeje to prevent him from entering the church while the demolition was ongoing.
However, Soludo while reacting to the development on Friday said that the officials involved in attacking the clergyman would be fished out and sanctioned in accordance with the law.
According to him, I have instructed that the task force personnel involved in the manhandling of Odumeje be treated in accordance with the rules of public conduct which he roundly failed to uphold.
The statement read, “Let me sincerely appreciate ndị Anambra for understanding with us as we take audacious steps toward making our Homeland Liveable and Prosperous. 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.
“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.
“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.”