Hope Uzodimma, the Imo state governor played golf after 109 persons were burnt to death in Abaezi/Abacheke forest, Ohaji/Egbema Local government area of the state.
While dead bodies piled up in the community due to the inferno, Uzodimma and his Deputy, Prof. Placid Njoku were at the Obinze Golf Course where he joined Golfers across the Nation for the Ceremonial Tee-Off of the Arsenal Open Golf Tournament in Nigeria.
Uzodimman said at the event that while golf is considered a sport of the elite, it is more of a mind game than a physical game as it looks to be.
“Therefore, success in this game depends less on strength of body than strength of mind and character.
“I appreciate the organizer’s choice of Owerri for the 2022 Tournament. This is an acknowledgement of the improved safety we have secured across the State.
“As a hospitable State, we will ensure a hitch-free event for the Golfers by beefing up security across the state,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a belated reaction on Sunday, Uzodimma said the Egbema inferno was one of the unexpected occurrences of his administration’s campaign and fight against criminality and banditry in the state.
He said: “I received, with rude shock, the unfortunate loss of lives at the pipeline explosion in Ohaji/Egbema as a result of illegal bunkering activities around the region.
“This is one of the unexpected occurrences that has informed our campaign and fight against criminality and banditry in our society. I have been consistent in preaching against any practice that could lead to national economic sabotage and jeopardy.
“While it remains pathetic that lives have been lost, this unfortunate incident calls for a redress by all who are in that illicit practice, to turn a new leaf and save lives.
“At my instance, the Imo State Commissioner for Petroleum, Rt. Hon. Goodluck Nanah Opiah visited the affected area and we shall review the breached protocols and implement necessary procedures to avert a reoccurrence”.
