The Anambra State Government has successfully demolished the revered “Olulu Eke Deity” in Ekwulobia to make way for the construction of a flyover at the town’s roundabout. This move follows Governor Soludo’s previous threat to remove the deity, which had faced resistance from worshippers.
The Udo Olulu Eke deity holds significant cultural and religious reverence among worshippers in Ekwulobia and the surrounding Aguata area. Despite resistance from the Chief priest of Udo Olulu Eke Ekwulobia, known as Okenye, the government proceeded with the demolition.
Okenye had challenged the government’s intentions, emphasizing the need for due process and warning of potential repercussions. He suggested that if the government believed it owned the site, it should attempt to remove the deity following proper procedures. The Chief priest delivered this message as instructed, expressing concerns about the forceful demolition.
In a viral video of the demolition, the driver of the caterpillar operating the machinery was seen dropping a kola nut on the ground as a sign of respect to the deity before proceeding with the demolition.
The demolition of the Olulu Eke Deity is part of the government’s development plan to facilitate the construction of the Ekwulobia flyover. While the construction is viewed as beneficial for the town’s development, Governor Soludo has faced opposition and warnings regarding the potential consequences of removing the revered deity.
