…By Emma Okereke – Owerri…
Imo Carnival 2014 a social-cultural event to mark the assumption of office of Governor Rochas Okorocha, three years ago, will hold from 6th to 13th of May this year. The week long event will feature youths, children/free education parade, command performance, contemporary music, up-coming stars and night of laughter/comedies.
The Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha who disclosed this at the Douglas House, Owerri said the essence of the carnival was to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Imo state to the outside world. He described the state as a tourist destination, noting that the programme would attract tourists from far and near thereby boost the economy of the state.
He noted that one of the tourist attractions in the state is the International Conference centre, which has the capacity of 5000. The project will soon be commissioned.
Governor Okorocha promised that his administration would support the carnival to ensure that the state has other sources of revenue rather than depend solely on federal allocation.
He called on Imolites to participate at the forth-coming epoch-making event aimed at bringing Imo to the limelight.
He also enjoined all entertainers to gear up for the programme even as he announced that markets would be closed from 2p.m. each day of the programme to make it a celebrated one.
The chairman of the event, Mr. Paddy Obinna explained that the carnival which would also mark the freedom day was in commemoration of assumption of office of the present administration.
Mr. Obinna said the 7-day programme of activities will kick off from the Imo State University and terminate at the Freedom Square. He said that the carnival would feature floats by the governor, the wife of the governor and other dignitaries.
Speaking, the Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere said the carnival will go down on record for Imo state and expressed the hope that other state would emulate the Imo carnival show.
The wife of the Governor, Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha also noted that the event would create an opportunity for Imo women to showcase the virtues typical of the Imo woman.