The letter addressed to HRH, Eze B.C. Okereke, Ubi 1 of Uzobui-Umuna in Orlu LGA by Hon. Pascal Okolie, lawmaker representing Orlu state constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly has elicited negative reactions and condemnation by a cross section constituents who berated the legislator for what they referred to as belated show of concern and empathy two months after the heinous and despicable incident.
An Orlu resident who identified himself as Ichie Nwosu, said “it is regrettable that Hon. Okolie who as the lawmaker for Orlu state constituency who lost his voice while his constituents were being slaughtered, harassed, maimed and traumatized during the solders/ESN confrontation in January is asking for details of what happened more than 2 months later. This is the height of deceit to shield his failure to rise up to the occasion. He failed Orlu people when they needed him most”.
It was also gathered that the lawmaker visited House of Prayer International Church, Okporo where soldiers invaded and whisked away over 10 members. some of who are yet to be released and asked to be given names of the victims of the attack and invasion of the church.
A resident of Okporo, Chief Ibe Nwachukwu , who also spoke in the same vein, said, “what is the essence of Hon. Okolie’s visit to the House of Prayer Int’l Church, when he did not deem it fit to identify with the church when the premises was unlawfully invaded and members whisked away. He did not intervene for the release of those detained. All this while that the issue was on the front burner of public discourse he did not make any comment. He probably just woke up from slumber to play to the gallery. We are conversant with such antics and are no longer impressed with such veiled acts of dereliction of duty and responsibility”.
Recall that, Hon. Okolie in a letter dated March 16, 2021 which he personally signed and addressed to Eze B.C. Okereke of Uzobui-Umuna, Orlu, captioned, “Request for Comprehensive Report on the Nigerian Army and Eastern Security Network (ESN) invasion in Orlu towns requested for comprehensive report of what transpired in the affected communities during the conflict between alleged members of Eastern Security Network and the Nigerian Army.
“Your report should include the following; activities of Eastern Security Network and it’s effects on your community, any damage(s) or loss of live(s) in your community. The attitude or actions of your subjects during the whole episode. Suggestions on what to be done to bring lasting peace in the various communities and forestall future occurrence.
Any other issues you may want to bring to our notice not contained in our terms of reference as it concerns the above subject matter.
Please, you report should reach the office of the honourable member representing Orlu state constituency, not later than two(2) weeks from the receipts of this letter to enable us take appropriate steps and actions as your representative in Imo State House of Assembly’.
