By Douglas Princemola
Recent discussions have revolved around an alleged bribery scandal involving the Special Adviser on Land Recovery, Hon. Paschal Nwakanma, and Mr. Magnus Awazi, the owner of Magnusum Hotels in Owerri.
The true narrative, however, reveals that Mr. Magnus Awazi, who has obstructed access road with a gate structure for years, marked for demolition by the SA’s Recovery Team to restore public access, attempted to evade demolition by trying to bribe the SA and his team.
It’s crucial to provide clarity and illuminate what truly occurred regarding the N1m saga.
It all began when Mr. Magnus Awazi approached me (Mr. Ebere Nnadi), knowing I operate a business around his hotel area and also serve on the Land Recovery team.
In his attempt to dissuade the SA from demolishing his structure, he initially sought my help.
I advised him to present his case officially at the office, assuring him that the SA would listen.
Despite my advice, Mr. Awazi insisted that I meet him first, expressing appreciation for the SA’s efforts in the state.
Acknowledging the illegal nature of the blockage, Mr. Awazi offered N1m as support for fueling official vehicles and other logistical needs of the team.
Upon realizing the SA wouldn’t accept money from me, I promptly returned it to Mr. Awazi, cautioning him against bringing it to the office.
Despite my warning, Mr. Awazi brought the money to the office himself. He announced his token of support publicly before the SA and others present.
With the entire exchange captured on video, the SA called upon police officers to arrest Mr. Awazi, who was subsequently taken to the State CID for further investigation.
Since the incident, I have provided the police with my statement detailing all that transpired.
Mr. Magnus Awazi’s subsequent media campaign aimed at attacking our office and propagating falsehoods against the SA and myself regarding his arrest.
It’s imperative to note that the allegations of the SA accepting N1m from Mr. Awazi are baseless and unfounded.
The Special Adviser on Land Recovery, Hon. Paschal Nwakamma, and myself, Ebere Nnadi, have upheld our integrity and never accepted bribes from anyone, including Mr. Awazi.
In fact, the SA and his team have a track record of rejecting millions of naira from desperate land grabbers and individuals attempting to circumvent government regulations.
The SA remains committed to fighting corruption and upholding the rule of law, despite facing challenges and attacks.
It’s essential for the public to be aware of the true story and support the SA Land Recovery and his team as they work tirelessly for the state’s benefit.
We must not allow ourselves to be swayed by misinformation or propaganda but focus on the facts and truth of the matter.
