Anambra to pay for medical bills of brutalised ex-chamber of commerce boss
The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has directed that the medical expenses of the former President, Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Okey Akaneme, be covered by the state following his alleged brutalisation by officials of the Anambra State Waste Management Agency and police officers.
A statement issued by the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, on Wednesday, revealed that the decision was made during the 37th State Executive Council meeting.
Mefor reported that the council reviewed a fact-finding team’s report sent by the state government to Akaneme, who is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Enugu after the brutal assault.
Akaneme was allegedly attacked on October 11 at his residence on Obi Lane, America Quarters, Onitsha, by ASWAMA officials, accompanied by two policemen from the Onitsha Central Police Station, over unpaid sanitation fees.
Witnesses described him being manhandled, leaving him with severe spinal injuries.
Mefor said, “The 37th ANSEC meeting received the report of the fact-finding team sent by the Soludo government to Mr Okechukwu Akaneme, who remains hospitalised in Enugu following this distressing incident.
“In response, the Council has resolved to take up his medical expenses while offering sympathies to his family and praying for his swift recovery.”
The commissioner also highlighted other key decisions from the meeting, including Anambra State’s recognition as the most creative cultural troupe at the National Festival of Arts and Culture in Abuja from November 22 to 30, 2024.
The council applauded President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of Mark Okoye as the Managing Director/CEO of the South-East Development Commission, a move facilitated by Governor Soludo.
Mefor noted that preparations for the Yuletide season were also discussed, with the council instructing the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to ensure that all roads are not only passable but also beautifully decorated for the festive period.
“The 37th ANSEC meeting also considered and awarded several key road contracts aimed at ensuring a memorable Christmas for the people of Anambra,” he said.
The council emphasised the need for improved infrastructure across the state to enhance the welfare and quality of life for its citizens, especially as the dry season (harmattan) increases the prevalence of airborne illnesses.
The directive also urged the public to remain vigilant and health-conscious during this period.
