Part of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, led by popular Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, also known as Odumeje, has been demolished by the Anambra State government.
This comes on the heels of the start of the demolition of hundreds of properties built along a drainage route in the state, as part of Governor Charles Soludo’s Onitsha Urban Renewal Plan.
The church, also known as Land of Freedom, has been designated as a “illegal building” by the State Government and was previously scheduled for demolition due to its encroachment on a massive canal.
The Backstory
The state government had previously warned that it would demolish approximately 200 houses in Onitsha, the state’s commercial capital.
He told landlords, “You will see us in action if you disobey.” Anyone who attempts to disrupt the flow of work will face severe consequences. We have everything we need to demolish the buildings; all we need is dynamite, and the buildings will be gone in a matter of seconds. We will not be returning for a second meeting with you. ” There are so many dump sites near residential buildings, and even if you try to stop it, the water will find its way. We do not want to use force because we care about people.”
Meanwhile, in a viral video, the popular man of God is seen being abused and assaulted by Anambra state police officers. Officers pushed Odumeje around when he and other senior church members attempted to halt the demolition.
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Several social media reactions have followed both the demolition of the church and the security agents’ mistreatment of the prophet. While many people have condemned the church’s demolition, others have praised the government for taking the bold step of clearing the area of illegal structures that were impeding drainage.
What you should understand
Soludo’s manifesto included a goal of making Anambra the most liveable smart megacity in Nigeria by revitalising major urban areas such as Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwuluobia, and Awka.
Soludo believes that this will aid in enforcing minimum best practises and standards for transportation, communication, electrification, recreational facilities, and public conveniences.