By Mustapha Muhammad Tukur
The Sokoto State Government has ordered the immediate and indefinite closure of Ifeoma Hotel, located at Old Airport, along with all its subsidiaries in the Sokoto metropolis, due to alleged immoral and criminal activities.
This decision was announced in a joint statement by the State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, and the State Commissioner of Police, who briefed the media at the hotel premises.
The officials stated that the hotels are prohibited from engaging in any commercial or other activities until the police investigation is concluded.
The closure was prompted by numerous complaints from residents on social media, particularly after allegations surfaced that a client had murdered a woman in one of the hotel rooms.
Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, Haruna Abbas Bashar, emphasized that the action was mandated by the State Government to ensure proper conduct in guest houses within the metropolis.
State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Jabir Sani Maihula, assured the public that the State would not tolerate criminal and immoral behavior.
State Commissioner of Police, Ali Hayatu Kaigama, confirmed the murder and stated that the suspect is in custody and the investigation is ongoing. He added that all involved parties will face justice.
Officials from the Ministry of Commerce promptly enforced the directive by shutting down the hotels.
Speaking to Daily Star Nigeria, Mal. Muhammad, a local resident and neighbor of the hotel, expressed profound gratitude for the government’s action, describing it as a long-awaited relief.
“All I can say is Alhamdulillah (Thanks be to Almighty Allah) for witnessing this memorable day. This hotel has long been a haven for immorality and sexual activities, undermining the morals we strive to instill in our children. We urge the State Government to take similar action against other hotels in the state that facilitate such illicit activities,” Mal. Muhammad said.