The Ebonyi State Government has sealed Jimoh Guest House in Abakaliki following an enforcement operation that resulted in the arrest of more than 30 suspected sex workers and the recovery of substances suspected to be hard drugs.
The operation was carried out by the Ministry of Capital City and Urban Planning in collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Security, security operatives and members of the ministry’s task force.
The facility was reportedly sealed over alleged security concerns, suspected illegal activities and the use of an unapproved building as a guest house.
Speaking to journalists during the operation, the Commissioner for Capital City and Urban Planning, Hon. Richard Ugo Idike, expressed concern over the alleged activities at the premises, noting that the situation raised questions about public safety and security within the state capital.
Idike said the inspection was part of the state government’s efforts to enforce building regulations and ensure that properties within Abakaliki were used for purposes consistent with approved development plans.
He disclosed that substances suspected to be hard drugs, including materials allegedly identified as Colos and Indian hemp, were recovered during the operation.
The suspected substances were reportedly handed over to security operatives for further investigation, while the arrested individuals were taken into police custody.
The commissioner reiterated the government’s resolve to prevent the use of unapproved buildings for activities capable of compromising public safety and security.
He urged property developers and building owners to obtain the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Capital City and Urban Planning before commencing construction or converting buildings to other uses.
According to him, the government would continue to enforce relevant regulations and take appropriate action against property owners who fail to comply with established requirements.
Idike subsequently ordered the indefinite sealing of Jimoh Guest House pending clarification of the circumstances surrounding its operation and compliance with the ministry’s requirements. He also directed the owner of the facility to report to the ministry to explain the situation and address the outstanding issues.
On his part, the Commissioner for Internal Security, Hon. Prince Etta Uka Ude, said the state government remained committed to protecting lives and property and maintaining law and order across Ebonyi State.
Ude stressed that the government would not allow business premises to serve as havens for criminal activities or become threats to the safety of residents.
He said the administration of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru was determined to sustain peace and security across the state, adding that security agencies had been urged to strengthen surveillance and monitoring of establishments suspected of engaging in unlawful activities.
The commissioner also emphasised the need for sustained cooperation among government ministries, security agencies and members of the public to identify and address potential security threats.
As of the time of filing this report, more than 30 individuals had reportedly been taken into police custody for questioning, while the whereabouts of the guest house owner remained unknown.
The operation highlights the Ebonyi State Government’s ongoing enforcement efforts on building approvals, urban planning and public security in Abakaliki.
Further details are expected as investigations continue into the alleged activities at the facility and the circumstances surrounding the recovery of the suspected illicit substances.
Note: The allegations concerning the arrested individuals and the substances reportedly recovered remain subject to investigation. Arrest does not establish guilt.
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