The Imo State government, has issued a directive to take over all hotel rooms in Owerri, the state capital, from November 4 to November 12, 2023, coinciding with the governorship election scheduled for November 11.
This directive was communicated through a letter dated October 25, 2023, signed by the Commissioner for Tourism, Barrister Jerry Egbule Egemba, and sent to all the General Managers of hotels in Owerri.
The letter states that the Ministry of Tourism intends to rent and occupy all hotel rooms in the city during the specified period, regardless of their quality, size, price, or location.
The government also requested that hoteliers submit details of accommodation bills for all rooms by noon on October 26, 2023, for settlement.
The letter read;
“I wish to refer to the above subject and inform you that the Ministry of Tourism intends to rent and occupy all the rooms in your hotel no matter the size and classification from Saturday, 4th November to Saturday 12th November 2023 at your usual cost per room for full occupation.
“I therefore request you to submit to my office before 12 noon tomorrow Thursday 26th October,2023 details of your acomodation bills for all the rooms covering the period for settlement
“Your urgent cooperation would be appreciated, please”
This move appears to be related to the governorship election and may be aimed at ensuring accommodation for election-related activities, officials, or observers during that period.