The campaign for Democracy (CD) has condemned the action of Anambra State government over its hurried demolition of Upper Class Hotel located at 8 Old Market Road, Onitsha without conclusive investigation.
It would be recalled that the 3-storey Upper Class Hotel was demolished by the orders of Gov. Peter Obi on Friday, following the alleged discovering of two fresh human heads, 2 AK47 rifles, 3 loaded cartridges and a military cap on Thursday in the hotel.
This was contained in two-page statement issued by CD to newsmen in Onitsha, Anambra on Tuesday.
The statement was signed by Dede Uzor A. Uzor, Chairman, CD South-East.
“Gov. Peter Obi acted arbitrary and undemocratically.
“Gov. Obi ought to have allowed the Nigeria Police conclude its investigation before moving ahead to demolish the hotel itself.
“The owner of the hotel, although within police custody and helping in the investigation, should have been given fair hearing and benefit of doubt.
“What if tomorrow, there is strong established evidence that Chief Bonaventure Mokwe was not culpable to the crime alleged against him?
“What if tomorrow, those who might have planned the tarnishing evidences come out public to confess and plead for forgiveness?,’’ it said.
CD, however, called on the government to stay action on remaining the property of the alleged culprit; pending when police investigation is concluded.
“A reference point had been created in the state in the case of Arthur Garden Hotel, Umusiome in Nkpor near Onitsha; where Chief Arthure Uboh, the owner of the hotel was alleged to have harboured some suspected kidnappers.
“ Arthur Garden Hotel was sealed off pending the investigation.
“However, at the end, it was clear that Chief Arthure Uboh was not culpable to the crime and the hotel was re-opened for business subsequently,’’ it said.
CD also re-instate its support for demolition of any private, public and religious building, which harbour criminals, when a conclusive evidence is established on a case or incident of crime.
