By Chinedum Treasure
Ndiowu community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Monday stormed government house, Awka in protest of what it described as unconstitutional conduct of election that produced traditional ruler of the town, Chibuzor Okekeife on January 12, 2026.
The people also protested women exclusion from the election and use of secret ballot voting which contravenes the town’s constitution, calling on Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s intervention to forestall breakdown of law and order.
The protesters, predominantly women bore placards with varying inscriptions as “The stool of the Ezediohamma Ndiowu is not for sale,” “Respect our right to choose”, We say no to imposed election”, “Women must vote”, “Soludo Solution come and help us in our Eze Stool,” among others.
Speaking to newsmen, Chairman, Ndiowu four traditional quarters, Chief Uchenna Iloh called for transparent and credible poll which candidacy must come from Ufere village as stipulated by the 2024 constitution of the community.
He insisted that the community would not accept emergence of a United States based businessman who is from Umudiabor kindred of the area.
“We’re here to protest injustice done to us, including discrimination of women in the community by Commissioner of Chieftaincy Affairs as well as the local government Chairman.
“We’re peace loving people and don’t wait violence. We want women to have the right to vote as they have always voted.
“The commissioner insisted the election be conducted on January 12 as against the Easter period we chose to enable more people participate in the exercise.
“They went ahead conduct the election in a church premises instead of the town hall and without the women. The next thing we heard was that a new Igwe has emerged.
“That’s why we’re here to plead for governor’s intervention. We want the election conducted according to our constitution.”
Responding on behalf of the governor, Secretary to State government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu commended the protesters for their peaceful and orderly conduct, assuring them that their grievances would be attended to.
“I also to you to ensure there is no breakdown of order in the community. The problem will definitely be resolved and Ndiowu will continue to exist,” he assured.
