Why Jonathan’s Visit Brings Tension in Onitsha

Security agents in the commercial city of Onitsha and Anambra State in general are having hectic time controlling the series of clashes in the city between street urchins at various motor parks ahead of President Goodluck Jonathan’s visit to the city today.

It was gathered that the crisis between Ndi Ukwu Aziza and Ndi Ukwu Otosi over the control of Aba park at Onitsha-Owerri road escalated yesterday resulting in blocking the Onitsha-Owerri Road for several hours before team of soldiers, navy and policemen led by the Divisional Police Officer, DPO in charge of Okpoko police division, Mr. Emeka Ugwu restored normalcy to the area.

The clash was coming even as President Jonathan is expected to land at Asaba International Airport from where he will use Air Force helicopter to land at Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium, Onitsha to pay courtesy call on Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe before departing for Owerri, Imo State.

Meanwhile security has been beefed up in the commercial city of Onitsha ahead of the president’s visit. The Area Commander in charge of Onitsha Police Area Command, Mr. Benjamin Wordu was seen patrolling the city with team of policemen as part of security measures.

However, a visit to the Imeobi palace of Obi of Onitsha showed heavy presence of security personnel as well as others who were seen working round the clock to make sure that there was serious security during and after president’s visit.

The Chairman of Onitsha North council area, Mr. Osite Egbuna, said there was heavy security ahead of Mr. President’s visit, adding that the entire commercial city of Onitsha is in great expectation to receive the president.

Mr. Egbuna also commended Governor Peter Obi for his support and leadership style that endeared him to the people, saying that the visit of the president will further bring development to the city.

Meanwhile, the police have deployed Anti bomb squad to the commercial city of Onitsha to ensure peace and security during and after the president’s visit.

Meanwhile, efforts to speak with the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe proved abortive.