As part of the strategies mapped out to fight crime and insecurity in
Imo, the state government has struck an agreement with artisans to
fish out the bad eggs in their midst.
It was also agreed that to restore sanity in Owerri capital city,
artisans would relocate immediately to the designated clusters and
markets.
Gov. Okorocha who stated this in a meeting with artisans in Owerri,
said having declared total war on kidnapping and other forms of
criminality, artisans should equally join in the collective fight to
make Imo safer for more investments.
He said “It is a known fact that there are some bad elements in your
midst. Government has resolved henceforth to partner with you in the
fight against crime which will definitely lead to the fishing out of
those suspected criminals. We must collectively fight crime to ensure
that our state is safer for more investment.”
The governor directed the immediate set up of a Joint Task-Force
Committee that will liaise with relevant government agencies to drive
the task of relocating those operating in unauthorized locations in
Owerri city as well as keep the city clean.
Governor Okorocha however, promised to provide additional locations
and the essential basic amenities like electricity, water and access
roads to boost their businesses.
He added that his administration would not relent in providing a
friendly and conducive atmosphere for small scale enterprises to
thrive in the state, adding that further steps would also be taken to
attract direct foreign investments that will boost trade and tourism
in the state.
Gov. Okorocha, who also expressed gratitude to the group for their
support, disclosed that arrangements are being perfected to ensure
that artisans undergo advanced skill acquisition programme in the
newly established Imo College of Advanced Professional Studies
(ICAPS).
