By Izunna Okafor, Awka
In the wake of the gruesome murder of a lady at a hotel (name withheld) in Awka, Anambra State, the State Government under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the immediate closure of the establishment and suspension of all activities therein.
Recall that a lady, identified as Ms. Chinyere Awuda, was tragically killed in a hotel premises over the weekend, and her lifeless body was later discovered in an abandoned swimming pool in the hotel, pending the outcome of the investigation.
Announcing the seal-off, the State Commissioner for Entertainment and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, expressed deep sorrow and concern over the incident. He also emphasized that the had been operating without proper registration from the Ministry of Entertainment and Tourism, thereby evading necessary regulations and scrutiny of their activities.
“In the these, and to ensure a thorough and unhindered investigation, we have taken the necessary step to close down the hotel,” he said, adding that the hotel will remain shut until the police complete their investigation and apprehend all those responsible for this heinous act.
Contributing, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority MD/CEO, Mr. Ossy Onuko, harped on the need for all hoteliers in the state to adhere to the requisite standards and protocols.
“Our priority is to ensure that hotels and hospitality establishments in Anambra State operate safely and responsibly,” he asserted.
A staff and Operational Manager of the hotel, Mr. Stanley Akunezili, said he wasn’t around when the incident happened.
Consequent upon the sealing and the ongoing investigation, all operations at the popular hotel have been brought to a standstill, including all its activities and services.
