Gov. Uzodimma’s EIICC: A World-Class Legacy Project, Pride of Ndi Imo – Crown Prince Obiefule
By Fredrick Njoku
The Crown Prince of Umudioka Ancient Kingdom in Orlu Local Government Area, Prince Chidi Obiefule, has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that the roof of the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Centre (EIICC) in Owerri, Imo State, had collapsed.
Addressing journalists in Owerri, Prince Obiefule clarified that what was described online as a “roof collapse” was merely a minor incident involving solar panel installations disrupted by a thunderstorm during a heavy downpour.
“My on-the-spot assessment of the EIICC revealed that there was no roof collapse, as speculated. What occurred was a weather-induced mishap during the installation of solar panels. Such incidents are not unusual at construction sites and should not have attracted the level of misinformation seen online,”
— Prince Chidi Obiefule.
The Crown Prince explained that his visit to the site was prompted by a desire to verify the claims and ensure that the multi-billion-naira facility remained intact. He expressed satisfaction with the structural integrity of the building, describing it as a world-class facility and a testament to Governor Hope Uzodimma’s visionary leadership.
He further clarified that the roof of the EIICC remains structurally sound, stressing that only a small section of the solar mounting frames was affected by the strong winds.
“The project involves the installation of over 300 solar panels by certified engineers to make the facility energy-efficient and self-sustaining. During the storm, some aluminum sheets and mounting frames were dislodged, but the damage was minimal and has since been rectified,”
— Prince Obiefule added.
Commending the swift intervention of the contractor, Sir Benneth Chukwuemeka Nwokejiobi, KSC, also known as the Duke of Orlu, Prince Obiefule applauded his professionalism and commitment to quality delivery.
He emphasized that no lives were lost, and normal activities at the convention centre have since resumed.
“It is important for the public to understand that what happened does not amount to structural failure or negligence. The EIICC remains one of the finest architectural landmarks in the Southeast, and a symbol of pride for Ndi Imo,”
— Prince Obiefule stated.
The Crown Prince concluded by lauding Governor Uzodimma for his commitment to infrastructural excellence, describing the EIICC as a legacy project that reflects Imo State’s growing status as a hub of culture, business, and innovation.
