Uzodinma express dismay at Abaezi explosion

•Urges Orlu people to produce devt plan, embrace peace
•Owner of illegal site declared wanted
•Desist from illegal bunkering or face the law, Farouq warns perpetrators

The Executive Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, has expressed dismay at the weekend explosion, which occurred in an illegal oil refinery at Abaezi Forest, in Ohaji/Egbema Local Council, claiming over 100 lives, describing it as an act of economic sabotage.

The incident occurred at around 12 am on Saturday as many persons gathered to allegedly transact the illegal business, according to the police.

Uzodimma while reacting to the incident, urging people to identify and have legal means of livelihood instead of indulging in illegal and dangerous activities

“I received, with rude shock, the unfortunate loss of lives at the pipeline explosion in Ohaji/Egbema as a result of illegal bunkering activities around the region.

“This is one of the unexpected occurrences that has informed our campaign and fight against criminality and banditry in our society. I have been consistent in preaching against any practice that could lead to national economic sabotage and jeopardy.

“While it remains pathetic that lives have been lost, this unfortunate incident calls for a redress by all who are in that illicit practice, to turn a new leaf and save lives.

“At my instance, the Imo State Commissioner for Petroleum, Rt. Hon. Goodluck Nanah Opiah visited the affected area and we shall review the breached protocols and implement necessary procedures to avert a reoccurrence.”

Uzodimma while commiserating with the families of the deceased persons while speaking at Orlu Zone Development Forum, convened by Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, and Chaired by Eze Duruiheona (SAN), call on the people of the 12 Local Councils in Orlu zone, to develop an action plan for the development of the zone instead of embarking on acts of security breach.

He advised them not to do illegal businesses, adding that peace was critical at the moment.

Meanwhile, the owner of the illegal refinery, one Okenze Onyenwoke, has already been declared wanted by the Imo State Government.