… As he celebrates Afia-Olu festival
‘Election Riggers, Beware!’ Nnewi Chief Monye Vows to Defend Peter Obi’s Votes
From The Nijasun News Desk
A renowned politician in Nnewi, Anambra State, and promoter of traditional and cultural institutions, Chief Ambassador Charles Monye, popularly known as Eziokwu Atuegwu, has warned those contemplating rigging the forthcoming presidential election against Mr Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), vowing to resist any such move.
Monye, who declared that he would not tolerate any attempt to manipulate the election against Obi, made the statement on Sunday at his ancestral home in Okpuneze, Uruagu, Nnewi, during his family’s Afia-Olu (New Yam) festival.
The festival, he explained, was organised to honour his ancestors and preserve his family’s cultural heritage.
According to him, Afia-Olu in Nnewi is celebrated between August and November, with the community holding its general festival while individual families and members organise their own celebrations within the period.
He said he had consistently used the occasion of his family’s Afia-Olu festival to pay homage to his ancestors and forebears, adding that the tradition would be passed on to his children.
The former President-General of Uruagu Nnewi, Uruagu Development Union, and Uruagu Youths Forum disclosed that he was the grand patron of more than 12 traditional clubs and associations.
They include Otu Odina Ana in Uruagu, Ndị Otu Odina Ana Anambra State, Association of Alternative Doctors, Otu Agba Nnewi, Family and Friends Club, and Eziokwu Amaka, among others.
Monye is also the coordinator of the Village Boys Movement (VBM) in Nnewi North, Nnewi South and Ekwusigo Local Government Areas. The political pressure group supports Obi’s presidential ambition.
Speaking on the political situation ahead of the election, Monye declared that his group and other supporters would mobilise to ensure victory for the former Anambra State governor.
“We must deliver Peter Obi, whether the opposition likes it or not. Obi will take over from Tinubu. We will give Peter Obi maximum support, and any Igbo who doesn’t support Obi is totally against Anambra State and Ndigbo generally,” he said.
He warned against any attempt to manipulate the election results, insisting that his supporters would remain vigilant to protect Obi’s votes.
“Let nobody contemplate rigging the election because we will not spare the riggers. Obi is our own. Anybody who steals his vote will be dealt with decisively. No mercy,” Monye declared.
He added that the Village Boys Movement was not the only group mobilising support for Obi, warning that other political pressure groups would also be alert throughout the electoral process.
“Apart from the VBM, there are other pressure groups for Obi. We will be wide awake. Riggers be warned!” he said.
The cultural celebration attracted more than 20 different masquerade groups from Nnewi and neighbouring communities, which converged on Winecoff Resort Ltd., the venue of the event, to display their agility and demonstrate their mastery of traditional cultural performances.
Politicians, industrialists, community leaders, VBM members, traders, friends and well-wishers also attended the festival in honour of the Nnewi politician.
Tags: Charles Monye, Peter Obi, Nnewi, Afia-Olu Festival, NDC
