Niigata Prefecture Governor Hanazumi Hideyo held a press conference today (16 January 2019).
For Niigata local idol group NGT48 member Yamaguchi Maho assault incident, Hanazumi Hideyo hopes the fact will be revealed as soon as possible, and the group's situation return to normal. On the other hand, he does not consider withdrawal of NGT48 from the special supporter role of the prefecture's National Cultural Festival and National Disabled Art, Cultural Festival.
Hanazumi Hideyo also said he regarded NGT48 is one of important asset of Niigata tourism, and hopes the group can get rid of negative image as soon as possible. He also wants to watch over the group's inner investigation procedure by the 3rd party committee.
While Hanazumi Hideyo was asked if NGT48's scandal affect Niigata prefecture's reputation, he admitted he does not know, but he said it is the fact that the idol group is well-known now.
Note: Hanazumi Hideyo appointed NGT48 as a special supporter role of the prefecture's National Cultural Festival and National Disabled Art, Cultural Festival in July 2018.
Orignal source: The Sankei News
Personal remarks:
Hanazumi Hideyo is the Governor of Niigata Prefecture since June 2018. The former governor Yoneyama Ryuichi resigned over sex scandal which was reported by Shukan Bunshun.
