From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Chairman of Hotels Association in Imo State, Chima Chukwuyenre, has denied a purported letter from the State government addressed to its members to secure all the hotel rooms in the State from November 4th November, to November 12.
Briefing newsmen in Owerri Monday, Chukwunyere expressed regret that such rumour has caused more harm than good to the hotel industry in the state.
He insisted that all hotels operating in Imo State are open for business, while calling on their guests to disregard such rumour.
He further expressed shock the issue was hijacked by politicians where the ruling party and the opposition parties traded words.
“We’re surprised that a second letter came after government had earlier on stated their position that the exercise was aimed at checkmating influx of thugs based on their intelligent report.
“A day after the explanation, there was a press release which though came from the office of the Commissioner for Information and Strategy telling all the Hotels to disregard the previous rumour, saying that government is not aware and has no intention to book all the Hotels in the town for 20 days.
“The rumour has done more harm than good because majority of our guests were meant to believe that if they come to Owerri from 4th to 12th November, there will not be any accomodation for them and so they resolved to stay back.
“The information about 100% occupancy of hotels in the state is a lie from the pit of hell which is aimed at destroying the industry in the state”
According to him the rumour has made history in the industry that no hotel is able to witness 1% occupancy while some are having zero .
He urged Governor Hope Uzodinma to support the Industry either through task rebate or provide funds .