After four long years of anticipation, the youth of Umuihugba Umuodu Autonomous Community in Owerri Municipal of Imo State have finally elected their new executives in a keenly contested election.
Mr. Obinna Anoruo emerged as the Chairman, defeating other contestants in a process described as free, fair, and credible.
The election saw the participation of 75 delegates drawn from the community’s five villages, demonstrating unity and a renewed commitment to progress.
A total of 18 candidates vied for various positions, with about 10 offices up for grabs.
The election which was held at the community hall, was intense but conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner, setting a positive precedent for future elections in the area.
Owerri Municipal Chairman, Engr. Chidiebere. Emeribe, who observed part of the election, praised the youth of Umuihugba Umuodu for their discipline and commended the Electoral Committee for organizing a rancor-free and transparent process.
He said the conduct of the election was exemplary and worthy of emulation.
In his remarks, the President General of Umuihugba Umuodu Autonomous Community, Ossy Udemba, described the election as a key moment for the youths.
“This election marks a new beginning after years of postponement. There are no winners or losers here; we are all brothers, and our collective focus should be on the community’s growth, progress and unity,” he said.
Mr.Udemba urged the newly elected youth executives to work inclusively and carry everyone along.
The Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Kingsley Nwaneri, also emphasized that the election was conducted in accordance with best practices. He highlighted the steps taken to ensure transparency and fairness, including strict adherence to guidelines and tight security.
Voting commenced at exactly 2:02 pm after accreditation of delegates and concluded at 4:04 pm under the watchful eyes of agents of the candidates, observers, men of the Nigeria Police, who worked in collaboration with the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the community, Emeka Ozurumba, who ensured the process remained peaceful and secure.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairman, Mr. Obinna Anoruo, described his victory as one for all.
“This is not about winners or losers; this is a collective victory for the youth of Umuihugba Umuodu. We must all work together to achieve our shared goals,” he said.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the newly elected executives to the traditional ruler of Umuihugba Umuodu, His Royal Highness, Eze Kevin Ihebom.
The monarch congratulated the winners and expressed optimism about the future of the youths under their leadership.
The election attracted a wide range of observers, including the media led by Special Adviser, Digital Media, Nigeria Union Of Journalists, NUJ, Imo State chapter, Mr.Innocent Onyeukwu, former youth chairmen in Owerri Municipal, including the immediate past interim youth Chairman of the community, Comrade Onyewuchi Onuoha, some executive members of Umuihugba Umuodu Development Union, UWDU, some Ward councilors in Owerri Municipal, and many others.
