Obeagu-Ugwuaji Protest: Caretaker Chairman Denies Claims of Harassment, Urges Calm

The Caretaker Committee Chairman of Obeagu-Ugwuaji Community, Hon. Okuwudili Joseph, has reacted to the recent protest by some women in the community, dismissing claims that their husbands were being hunted and urging residents to remain calm.

Speaking alongside the community’s legal representative, Barr. Ihenda Idam, Joseph noted that most of those seen carrying placards were not genuine members of Obeagu-Ugwuaji but hired individuals brought in to create tension and discredit the traditional ruler.

Reacting to allegations that the traditional ruler, HRH Igwe Christopher Ikenga Nyia, was involved in land-related and financial misconduct, Joseph described the claims as unverified and maintained that community decisions are taken through established structures.

He further explained that land allocations in the community follow a collective approval process involving multiple officials, including the Town Union President, Secretary, Land Committee Chairman, Land Committee Secretary, the Igwe, and elders of the various kindreds.

He explained that the community operates a system involving multiple signatories and stakeholders in financial and land matters, noting that such processes are designed to ensure accountability and collective decision-making.

Joseph also acknowledged that there have been disagreements within the community, particularly following changes in its leadership structure, but emphasized the need for dialogue and due process in resolving disputes.

He urged members of the public to disregard speculation and allow relevant authorities to address any concerns through appropriate legal and administrative mechanisms.

In his remarks, Barr. Ihenda Idam said the current Caretaker Committee was constituted following due process and affirmed by the court, adding that all parties should respect existing legal decisions.

He clarified that actions taken by law enforcement agencies in the community were based on formal complaints and legal procedures, stressing that such matters should not be misinterpreted.

Idam advised that anyone who feels aggrieved should seek redress through the courts, in line with the rule of law.

Both the chairman and the legal representative reiterated calls for peace, urging residents to avoid actions that could escalate tensions while efforts continue to resolve outstanding issues within the community.