By Karen James
The Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) has dismissed as false and misleading reports circulating on social media and blogs alleging that its operatives were responsible for the recent shooting at Onitsha Main Market, Emeka Offor Plaza axis.
In a statement on Tuesday, the leadership of the OCHA Brigade clarified that its operatives were not involved in the tragic incident. According to the investigation carried out by Pechilly investigative, the violence was the handiwork of hoodlums who hijacked the situation to unleash chaos and panic among traders and customers.
The agency further explained that its leadership did not sanction or approve the operation in question. “Our enforcement exercises follow strict procedures and are carried out under lawful supervision. At no time did the Managing Director, Mr. Celestine Anere, confirm that OCHA operatives fired at market people. Those reports being spread by bloggers are deliberate falsehoods aimed at misleading the public,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its mandate, the OCHA Brigade stressed that it remains focused on Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of a clean, orderly, and livable Anambra State. It added that its role is strictly limited to decongesting roads, clearing illegal structures, and enforcing environmental cleanliness — never violent acts.
The agency therefore urged the public to disregard the unfounded publications and assured that the government has directed security agencies to investigate and bring the true perpetrators to justice.
“We will continue to enforce discipline and order within the framework of the law, and we remain committed to working with traders, residents, and security agencies to ensure peace and safety in our markets and communities,” the statement concluded.