Former First Lady and wife of an immediate past president, Dame Patience Jonathan, has sent a protest letter to Bayelsa State Police Command over the demolition of a section of her property; Aridolf Resort Wellness, and Spa, located in the Okaka area of the state capital.
The former Secretary to the State Government, (SSG); who doubles as Chairman of the State Physical Planning and Development Board, Gideon Ekeowe, led the demolition.
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Jonathan, in her protest letter to the Police; wants Ekeowe arrested; over what she termed abuse of office; criminal demolition, and abuse of court processes.
Meanwhile, it was gathered, that the demand for the arrest of Ekeowe was provoked by the destruction of the hotel’s fence; without allowing the management; and the Police to respond to the court order instituted by the physical planning board.
First Lady creating an uproar
A source within the board confirmed to newsmen that the protest by Dame Jonathan was creating uproar; and the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; seems to have certainly washed his hands off the action of the Physical Planning and Development Board.
It was also learned that such independent decision from Ekeowe has led to over 78 cases of illegal demolition against the board.
Action of the chairman was personal
While, some officials of the board, claimed that the action of the chairman was personal; and likewise borne out of past political angst against the former first family; others claimed it was based on a misunderstanding.
However, another property located in Otiotio, which belongs to Jonathan’s family; was also demolished.
Notwithstanding, officials close to Ekeowe, said the action is backed by the ruling of the Physical Planning Development Tribunal; headed by Justice Emmanuel Ogola, (rtd).
