“I Am Not Afraid of Any Investigation” – Owner of Demolished Anambra Hotel Denies Allegations of Kidnappers’ Den

The Udoka Golden Point Hotel and Suites in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, has been demolished amid allegations that it served as a kidnappers’ den. Reports and videos circulating online claim that the hotel, located along the Onitsha-Owerri road, contained multiple graves, a shrine, and other suspicious structures. A widely shared video suggested that the top floor housed over 30 graves, along with bloodstains, firearms, and ritual items.

However, the hotel’s owner, Mr. Udoka Calistus Ejim, has strongly denied these allegations, calling them shocking and baseless. In a telephone interview, he explained that he initially rented the property in 2021 from one Mr. Nwagbo, also known as Ichie Aja, who is reportedly the younger brother of the President-General of Oba. He later purchased the hotel in 2023 after being persuaded by the seller, even taking a bank loan to complete the payment.

Mr. Ejim alleged that shortly after the purchase, disputes arose between him and Mr. Nwagbo, who he claims wanted to reclaim the property. He suggested that the demolition might have been influenced by these personal conflicts. When asked about the alleged graves found within the building, he insisted that the structure existed before he bought the hotel, stating that the seller had described it as a fish pond at the time.

“I am not afraid of any investigation,” Mr. Ejim said. “I have already reported to the police in Awka and requested a thorough inquiry into the matter. The seller should also be questioned about the so-called graves.”

Regarding claims that firearms, blood, and a shrine were found on the premises, Mr. Ejim dismissed them as false, challenging anyone with evidence to present video or pictorial proof. He also criticized the government for demolishing the property without conducting a proper investigation, vowing to seek compensation for his losses.