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Purported graves found in my hotel are fish ponds -Anambra hotel owner

The owner of Udoka Golden Point Hotel, Oba, Anambra State, Mr. Udoka Calistus Ejim, has reacted to the allegations that his hotel was being used as a kidnappers’ den, with graves discovered on the premises.
In a telephone interview, Mr. Ejim denied the allegations, stating that the structures found on the premises were fish ponds, not graves.
“The seller told me it was a fish pond. I believed him, and I didn’t bother to inspect it further. They are fish ponds,” he said.
Mr. Ejim expressed shock and disappointment over the allegations, which led to the demolition of his hotel. “I purchased the hotel in 2023, and I have done nothing but try to run a legitimate business,” he said.
He also suggested that the demolition might have been orchestrated by the previous owner, one Mr. Nwagbo, out of malice after failing to reclaim the property illegitimately.
He also denied allegations of a shrine, firearms, and blood found on the premises, challenging anyone with evidence to come forward. “I am not afraid of any investigation,” he said. “I want the truth to come out. If anyone has evidence, let them provide video or pictorial proof.”

Signpost of Udoka Golden Point Hotel where the Anambra State Government said graves were found
The hotel owner expressed deep dissatisfaction with the government’s decision to demolish the hotel without conducting a proper investigation.
“I acquired this hotel barely three years ago, and I have invested heavily in it,” he said. “I will seek compensation for the damages incurred.”
According to him, he has already reported to the police and requested a thorough inquiry into the matter, including questioning the seller about the controversial ‘grave’ structure. “I want to clear my name and the name of my business,” he said.
The Police Public Relations Officer of Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, could not be reached for a comment, as his phone line was pronounced “not available” by the network provider.
Text messages and WhatsApp messages sent to him were not replied as at the time of filing this report.
Rising insecurity in Anambra State
The Udoka Golden Point Hotel issue comes amid recent surge in kidnapping, killings, and armed robbery in Anambra State.
Rising insecurity has created a sense of panic and fear among residents, forcing many to abandon their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring states.
The situation is dire, with even traditional rulers, civil servants, and clerics being targeted.
The economic impact of the insecurity is significant, with businesses forced to close due to the constant threat of attack.
Farmers are unable to access their farms, leading to food shortages and increased prices.
The state’s roads have become treacherous, with reports of armed robbers and kidnappers terrorizing travelers.
Hospitals and schools have been forced to close due to the constant threat of attack, leading to a breakdown in social services.
To address the issue, Governor Charles Soludo has launched ‘Operation Udo Ga Achi’, a comprehensive security initiative aimed at restoring peace and order in the state.
The operation involves deploying security personnel to troubled areas, establishing a system for reporting and responding to security incidents, and engaging with the community to promote peace and stability.
A reward system has also been established for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of criminals.
The overall goal of ‘Operation Udo Ga Achi’ is to create a safe and secure environment for citizens to live and conduct their businesses.
Governor Soludo has also commended the Truth, Peace and Justice Commission for its historic report on insecurity in the state, pledging to implement its recommendations.
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