The Imo State Government has said that it will henceforth arrest illegal protesters on the streets of Owerri, the state capital and other parts of the state.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Declan Emelumba, who disclosed this in a statement, said the state government had uncovered that opposition elements were sponsoring protesters and threatened to arrest anyone or group of persons caught protesting.
He noted that in recent times, some persons who played key roles during protests in Owerri did not belong to the groups or unions for which they claimed membership and urged the people to be mindful of government’s resolve.
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Besides, as Muslims celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, Governor Hope Uzodinma has urged Muslim faithful to use the occasion to pray for the end of coronavirus.
In a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser, Oguwike Nwachuku, the governor said this year’s celebration was peculiar in view of the pandemic and urged Muslims in the state to observe all safety protocols.
“Governor Uzodinma has felicitated the Muslim faithful on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir being celebrated all over the world.
“This year’s Eid-el-Kabir is peculiar because it is celebrated when the world is grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic of which Nigeria is not an exception,” the statement added.
While calling on Muslims to imbibe the spirit of love, peace, kindness and sacrifice for which Prophet Mohammed is noted, Governor Uzodinma also urged them to also use the opportunity of the Eid-el-Kabir to pray fervently for the end of the coronavirus pandemic.
“It is time to pray fervently for God’s intervention and mercy upon our country over the COVID-19 and I call on Muslims to make that one of their prayer points,” he said.
While advising the Muslim faithful, particularly those in Imo State to continue to observe the COVID-19 protocols during the festivities, he enjoined them to consider those who do not have the means to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir and show them love by sharing whatever they have with their less privileged neigbours.
THE EASTERN UPDATES
