Pic: Prof Obi Nwosu
By David Onwuchekwa
The crisis surrounding the alleged marginalisation of Nnewichi Quarter in Nnewi, Anambra State, has taken a dramatic turn as renowned Professor of Gynaecology and Obstetrics and former Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Obi Nwosu, declared that the community’s struggle must continue until justice is achieved.
Speaking with journalists after the monthly meeting of the Nnewi Solution Team held at the residence of Chief Gabriel Chukwuma on Sunday, Prof. Nwosu threw his weight behind the decision of the Obi of Nnewichi to withdraw from the meetings of Nzuko Ora Nnewi.
Withdrawal from Nzuko Ora Is a Legitimate Protest
Describing the action as a peaceful and justified response to perceived injustice, Prof. Nwosu said the Obi of Nnewichi had every right to protest against what he described as the continued marginalisation of his people.
“If you are protesting against injustice, you must remain consistent until your demands are addressed. The Obi of Nnewichi has every right to withdraw from Nzuko Ora because his people believe they are being marginalised,” he said.
Autonomous Community Issue Already Settled
The respected academic dismissed suggestions that the protest could revive agitation for an autonomous community, insisting that the matter had already been settled by the Supreme Court.
According to him, the current struggle is not about creating a separate community but about securing fairness, justice and equal treatment within Nnewi.
‘Governor Must Hear Our Side’
Prof. Nwosu argued that the Anambra State Government had largely heard only one side of the dispute and urged Nnewichi stakeholders to present their position more effectively.
“The Governor has largely heard one side of the story. It is now our responsibility to reorganise, present our case properly and seek a fair hearing. The struggle will continue until what is right is done,” he stated.
He maintained that peaceful protest remains a constitutional and democratic means of pursuing justice.
Call for Leadership Reforms
Reacting to concerns that the withdrawal from Nzuko Ora could strengthen the influence of certain interest groups, Prof. Nwosu said those currently in control simply benefited from effective political organisation.
He also advocated reforms in the election of the President-General of Nzuko Ora, insisting that the office should be occupied by individuals with proven leadership credentials.
“The office of President-General should no longer be an all-comers affair. Those seeking the position should be employers of labour or people with verifiable achievements and leadership experience,” he said.
Debate Over Representation Continues
Prof. Nwosu’s remarks are expected to deepen discussions over representation, equity and leadership within Nnewi, as the disagreement involving Nnewichi continues to generate public interest and calls for dialogue among stakeholders.
Tags: Nnewichi, Nnewi, Prof Obi Nwosu, Nzuko Ora, Anambra Politics
