– Orlu Group demands to know criteria
Mixed reactions have continued to trail the reported involvement of Senator Osita Izunaso in the release of some inmates from the Owerri Correctional Centre, Imo State.
Among those who have reacted to the development is the Orlu Equity Forum (OEF), which expressed disappointment and strong reservations over the senator’s action.
In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Comrade Onyekachi Nwokeji, the group described the move as misplaced and ill-timed, saying it was disheartening that Senator Izunaso chose to facilitate the release of prisoners instead of focusing on more pressing developmental issues affecting the people of Orlu Zone.“It is disappointing that instead of focusing on how to address the mass unemployment of youths that has resulted in the frightening level of insecurity and its attendant challenges, Senator Izunaso is more interested in facilitating the release of criminals whose freedom will add little or no value to the welfare of Orlu people,” the statement read.
The group advised the senator to channel his influence and resources toward industrialization and job creation, which, they said, would go a long way in addressing the root causes of insecurity in the area.“Izunaso ought to have, in the alternative, partnered with the Governor and other stakeholders to find ways of industrializing Orlu Zone with a view to creating employment for the teeming youths as a means of curbing insecurity.
This is not the time for theatrics or playing to the gallery, because the people are not only wiser but also fed up with the unproductive and deceitful antics of desperate politicians who take advantage of the masses for their selfish interests,” the group stated.
The Forum further insisted that what Orlu needs at this critical time is purposeful and result-oriented leadership that would positively impact the lives of the people.“We do not understand the rationale behind Izunaso’s silence in the midst of the alarming insecurity that has ravaged Orlu Zone for some time now. It is surprising and worrisome that he has neither condemned nor proffered any solution to the menace,” the group added.
The Orlu Equity Forum also demanded that the senator clarify the criteria used in selecting those released, insisting that transparency was necessary to ensure that the process was not influenced by favoritism or political considerations.
Meanwhile, Senator Izunaso, who was received at the Correctional Centre by the Controller of Corrections, Linus Okorie, explained that the release of the inmates was in fulfilment of his personal covenant with God to extend kindness and relief to those in need.
