Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The people of Umuakpu autonomous community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi state took to the street on Tuesday to protest what they described as the imposition of a new Ezeogo (king) in their community.
The villagers, who gathered in large numbers at the new government house in Abakaliki, demanded a transparent election process to choose their traditional ruler, rejecting the alleged politically influenced appointment.
The peaceful protest, which began in the morning, saw demonstrators holding placards with messages such as ‘Umuakpu Ezeugoship is for sale,’ we want free and fair election,” and “Politicians stay away from Ezeship election.” Despite gathering early in the day, they were only addressed by government officials around 4 p.m.
According to them, they had earlier sent letters to various offices such as, the speaker of the house, and the commissioner for local government, and were yet to receive response, hence the protest.
A stakeholder in the community, Chief Gabriel Okoro voiced his frustration over the situation. He noted that the town union president had been in office for seven years without an election, while the community’s calls for elections were ignored.
“They sold forms for the Eze election for ₦100,000, and seven candidates bought them, but there was no screening or meeting. Suddenly, we were told there would be an election, without screening of candidates after months of months of buying forms,” Okoro explained.
“However, we heard they sent text message on 29 August, which I didn’t get any message, that they have meeting at Umuakpu, on that day they brought one man Emmanuel Okpi that he is the king.”
“It is not because they are in government, they will use their power to impose candidate on us, if it was general election as the constitution stated we will do it, if it is by executive order we will abide by it, but it was never so.”
He further accused some politicians in the area, including Dr. Agwu and his wife, the member representing Ohaukwu North Constituency, Hon. Esther Agwu, of manipulating the process, stating that they had refused to allow the town union election to take place before the Ezeogo election.
“What we want is a free and fair process, where the people can choose their leaders. The constitution is clear on this, but they are imposing their will on us,” Okoro said.
Prince Nwali Emmanuel Ebe, speaking on behalf of the youth, echoed these concerns, warning that the imposition could lead to unrest in the community.
“We do not want a repeat of the crisis that has affected neighboring communities. All we ask is for the government to step in and ensure a fair election process,” he said.
The community’s frustrations were directed at several political figures, including Dr Agwu, as well as the local government chairman, Prince Odono Ikechukwu whom they accused of allegedly trying to destroy the unity of the community by imposing an Ezeogo without following due process.
Addressing the protesters, the Chief of Staff to the governor, Chief Emmanuel Echiegu, assured them that their grievances would be forwarded to the governor.
He promised that the constitution guiding the selection of Ezeship candidates would be respected and urged the community to remain peaceful.
“You have taken the right step by bringing your complaints to the government. I will ensure the governor reviews your petition and takes a decision based on the law. However, I encourage you to maintain peace and avoid any form of violence,” Echiegu said.