Imo state governor Rochas Okorocha has announced the closure of all markets in the state from 2pm for one week starting from the May 6 to 13, 2014. This is to enable the people of the state participate fully in the 2014 Imo Carnival, which also holds in the same days. Governor Rochas Okorocha disclosed that the event would feature youths, children/free education parade, command performance, contemporary music, up-coming stars and night of laughter/comedies.

He explained that the essence of the carnival was to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Imo state to the outside world and enjoined all entertainers to gear up for the programme. He said the programme would attract tourists from far and near thereby boosting the economy of the state.

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 noted that the 5000 capacity International Conference centre in Owerri is one of the most important tourist attractions in the state, and called on Imolites to participate at the forth-coming epoch-making event aimed at bringing Imo to the limelight.