Secretary of Amaifeke General Union (AGU), Mr. Onyekachi Kelvin Uba, has called on the people of Amanator Okporo Community in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State to refrain from name-calling and political propaganda. This follows allegations that HRM Eze (Dr.) Emmanuel C. Okeke, JP, CFR, instigated the demolition of the so-called market known as “Eke Akwakuma.”
Speaking to newsmen in Owerri on Sunday, Uba described the recent publications accusing the traditional ruler as malicious and unfortunate, labeling them the handiwork of so-called community leaders. He specifically reacted to media publications signed by Mr. Ukachukwu Oguegbe (Chairman) and Mr. Chinedu (Public Relations Officer) of the Akwakuma General Youths Assembly, Amanator Okporo Community.
It was also gathered that Emmanuel Odidika (Emmaty), Mr. Sebastine, and Mr. Chukwuka Oguegbe, among others, were allegedly behind the media attacks against Eze Okeke. The publications accused the monarch, who is also the Chairman of Imo State and South East Councils of Traditional Rulers, of ordering youths from his kingdom to demolish and destroy the “Eke Akwakuma Market” located along the Orlu-Owerri Expressway.
Mr. Uba, however, debunked the allegations, stating that Amanator Okporo Community was misinformed about the true ownership of the land. He clarified that the land belonged to the late Chief Alawuba Okpechukwu from Amaifeke Ancient Kingdom, emphasizing that it was never acquired by the Imo State Government or the Orlu Local Government Area Council for public use or as a market.
Continuing, Uba, who is the Ugodinanwa of Amaifeke, said it was inconceivable that HRM Eze Okeke would direct the eviction of occupants or demolition of the market, as he does not own the land in question. He described Eze Okeke as a peace-loving monarch who prioritizes development, accusing the detractors of plotting to tarnish the monarch’s reputation.
“They can only try but won’t succeed in dragging the name of HRM Eze Emmanuel C. Okeke to the mud. The unnecessary attacks are from disgruntled elements who failed to impose themselves as leaders in the community,” Uba stated. He called for restraint to prevent unnecessary disputes between the Amaifeke and Amanator communities.
Uba further defended Eze Okeke, asserting that the monarch is not involved in the so-called market issue.
“Eze Imo is a promoter of peace and justice. He cannot and will not participate in anything that would disrupt the peace and tranquility of the area. The land in question does not belong to Amanator Okporo Community but to the late Chief Alawuba Okpechukwu,” he emphasized.
He advised the sponsors of the media publications to desist from their actions and offer a public apology to the revered Amaifeke monarch and Amaifeke youths or face legal action.
“I urge the public and all right-thinking individuals to ignore the false allegations against HRM Eze (Dr.) Emmanuel C. Okeke, which are aimed at causing chaos between the two communities,” he added.
Ugodinanwa also reiterated that Eze Okeke has been working closely with the Imo State Government under Governor Hope Uzodimma to address negative activities in the area.
He praised Governor Uzodimma as a workaholic leader focused on reconstructing Imo State, rehabilitating the economy, and reconciling factions in the state.
Uba cautioned the youths against being manipulated by politicians and other disgruntled individuals to destabilize the society.
“Our youths must rise above being used as tools for disruption. They have a greater role in fostering peace and development in our communities,” he concluded.
