The Imo State Police Command has ruled out any public celebration of the 2020 Ikeji festival, which is an annual traditional and cultural homecoming ceremony of Arondizuogu community in Ideato North and Okigwe LGAs of Imo State. The ceremony usually features cultural dances, mass movement of people, costumes and masquerades displays.
A release by the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Supol Ikeokwu Godson Orlando, indicates that the police had advised against holding the ceremony as scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2020. This is sequel to the ravaging Covid-19 pandemic.
The release stated as follows; “in view of the ravaging Covid-19 Pandemic, the Command wishes to remind the general public especially the people of Arondizuogu that the lockdown order of the State Government is still in force.
The Command therefore wishes to use this medium to advise the organizers of the event to shelve this year’s festival to a later date when the pandemic would have been contained effectively.
The command further warns that any person or group of persons found violating the executive order shall be arrested and made to face the wrath of the law.
Members of the public are advised to stay at home and be safe, for together we shall get through this difficult and unpleasant heath challenge. We remain in the business of providing safety and security to all and sundry even in the wake of the Covid-19 scourge”.
Feelers from Arondizuogu community disclose that the advice from the State Police Command was received after arrangements for the celebration had been concluded.
