Governor Hope Uzodimma has suspended all operations of the Imo State Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO) following the tragic deaths of five young men allegedly caused by the commission’s operatives during an enforcement exercise in Owerri.
The fatal incident reportedly occurred on Monday around Toronto Junction and near St. Mulumba Church, Wethral Road, when ENTRACO personnel attempted to seize a vehicle. Witnesses said the situation escalated, leading to the deaths of a block industry owner and two motorcycle riders, among others.
The tragedy sparked widespread outrage and renewed criticism of ENTRACO’s enforcement tactics, which many residents described as heavy-handed. Civil groups and residents have since called for accountability and justice for the victims.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Oguike Nwachukwu, Governor Uzodimma said he was deeply disturbed by the actions of the commission’s operatives and assured the public that the government would investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
“With effect from today, all activities connected to the operations of the Imo State Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO) are hereby suspended until further notice,” the governor stated.
He, however, cautioned that the suspension should not be taken as a licence for residents to disregard environmental or traffic laws.
“I am not unmindful of other recent ugly incidents where the mode of operations of ENTRACO was brought to question by members of the public,” Uzodimma added. “But let me warn that the immediate suspension of ENTRACO operations is not a license for members of the public to take traffic, environmental, and other laws into their hands as those found violating such laws will pay dearly for it.”
Public reaction continues to mount as many call for a full reform of the state’s environmental task force and justice for the victims’ families.
