By Ukpa Ewa
Community leaders, women and youths in Ndiowu, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, have staged a peaceful protest against the removal of their elected President-General, Mazi Sunday Enemuo, and the withdrawal of approval for the community’s 2024 amended Town Union and Traditional Rulers Constitution.
The protesters called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene in the dispute following the dissolution of the elected town union executives and the appointment of a caretaker committee by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Barrister Vin Ezeaka.
Speaking during the protest, community stakeholder Uchenna Iloh said Enemuo was elected under a constitution recognised by the previous administration and had served for only one year and ten months of his four-year tenure.
Iloh questioned the decision to dissolve the executives, particularly following an earlier directive reportedly postponing the community’s planned December election until February. He urged the government to explain the circumstances surrounding the caretaker committee’s appointment and allow a peaceful resolution.
The Chairlady of Umuada Ndiowu, Mrs Mercy Obiagali Nwafor, said the women believed the elected executives’ tenure had not expired. She called for a fresh election, under appropriate supervision, rather than the imposition of a caretaker committee.
Similarly, Mrs Regina Iloh, representing Anutaradi in the community, opposed the removal of Enemuo, insisting that leadership changes should comply with the community’s constitution and involve proper consultation.
The Vice Chairman of Ndiowu General Youths, Mazi Obidi Nwankwo, said the youths wanted the government to respect the community’s democratic process and communicate its decisions officially to the people.
Also speaking, the First Vice President-General of Ndiowu Town Union, Engr. Chukwuemeka Akabuogu, described the protest as a legitimate expression of the people’s concerns. He appealed to the government and the opposing parties to embrace dialogue, adding that representatives of the protesters had been asked to meet government officials in Awka to seek a resolution.
The protesters also raised allegations concerning the person appointed to head the caretaker committee, including claims relating to violence and the sale of community property. These allegations require appropriate investigation.
Police officers and personnel of Anambra State Operation Udogachi were present to maintain peace and order during the demonstration.
The protesters urged Governor Soludo and Commissioner Ezeaka to intervene urgently, restore confidence in the community’s leadership process and prevent the dispute from escalating.
Tags: Ndiowu, Anambra State, Soludo, Town Union Dispute
