Reports and videos circulating online have alleged that the demolished Udoka Golden Point Hotel and Suites in Oba, Idemili South LGA, was being used as a kidnappers’ den. The property, located along the Onitsha-Owerri road, is claimed to have contained well-partitioned graves, a shrine, and other suspicious structures. A video shared online suggested that the last floor of the hotel housed over 30 graves, along with items like a shrine, blood, and firearms.
In a telephone interview with Daily News Reporters, the hotel’s owner, Mr. Udoka Calistus Ejim, denied the allegations and expressed shock over the claims. He explained that he initially rented the property 2021 from one Mr. Nwagbo, popularly known as Ichie Aja, who is reportedly the younger brother of the President-General (PG) of Oba. According to Mr. Ejim, he later purchased the hotel in 2023 after being persuaded by the seller, even borrowing money from a bank to complete the payment.
However, he revealed that disputes with Mr. Nwagbo began shortly after the purchase, alleging that the seller wanted to reclaim the property. Mr. Ejim suggested that the demolition might have been orchestrated by Mr. Nwagbo, possibly out of malice.
When questioned about the alleged graves discovered in the hotel, Mr. Ejim stated that the structure existed before he purchased the property. He claimed that the seller had described it as a fish pond at the time. “I am not afraid of any investigation,” he said, adding that he’s already in Awka to report to the police and request a thorough inquiry into the matter, including questioning the seller about the controversial ‘grave’ structure.
On the allegations of a shrine, firearms, and blood found on the premises, Mr. Ejim vehemently denied them. “If anyone has evidence, let them provide video or pictorial proof,” he challenged.
Mr. Ejim also expressed deep dissatisfaction with the government’s decision to demolish the hotel, which he said he acquired barely three years ago. He criticized the authorities for not conducting a proper investigation before taking action and vowed to seek compensation for the damages incurred.
The demolition of the hotel and the allegations surrounding it continue to generate public interest, with calls for a detailed investigation to uncover the truth.
By Okonkwo Samuel