Chinedum Elekwachi
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra state has dismissed as false and baseless alleged plans to arrest and jail Catholic bishops and priests after his reelection.
The Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor in a statement described the report as clear example of misinformation and fake news.
He said it is designed to create tension and undermine peaceful atmosphere in the state.
While insisting the governor had no such plans or intentions, Mefor clarified that government has respect for rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders.
He reassured government’s commitment to continued fight against fake native doctors, fake Ndi Eze nwanyi, and fake clergymen and women.
Dr Mefor noted this has resulted in ‘Oso Soludo’, which must be sustained.
The statement reads, “The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to a fabricated story circulating in some media outlets, alleging that Governor Chukwuma Soludo plans to arrest and jail Catholic bishops and priests after his reelection.
“We categorically state that this report is entirely false, baseless, and malicious.
“This fabrication is a clear example of misinformation and fake news.
According to him, this is designed to create tension and undermine the peaceful atmosphere in the state.
Shadow opposition
He described it as the handiwork of shadow opposition who have dwelt essentially on propaganda for want of campaign materials.
“They are advised to face their fizzling campaigns.
“The Anambra State Government, therefore, assures the public, particularly the Catholic Church of which Soludo is a staunch member, and its leaders that Governor Soludo has no such plans or intentions.
“The government respects the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders.
“We urge Ndị Anambra to disregard this false report. Always demand virtual evidence before accepting or sharing such inflammatory stories.
He promised that the government will sustain the fight against fake native doctors, Ndi Eze nwanyi, and clergymen and women.
“Furthermore, the Anambra State Government will collaborate with Federal Government to fish out and rid the state of certificate forgers.”
