By Karen James
Ojoto Protest: Opposition to Awka-Etiti Agenda After 8-Year Reign
In an unexpected turn of events, the Idemili South Local Government Area is embroiled in political turmoil as opposition rises against the reappointment of Hon. Amaka Obi as the Transition Committee Chairman. This comes after eight years of continuous leadership from Awka-Etiti, igniting heated debates on democratic principles and zoning arrangements.
Stakeholders and community groups argue that Idemili South is made up of Akwu-Ukwu, Alor, Awka-Etiti, Ojoto, Nnokwa, Oba, and Nnobi. However, they claim that the chairman position has been monopolised exclusively by Awka-Etiti, disregarding the principles of democracy and fair representation. The voice against this dominance has gained momentum, with opposition now threatening to shut down the local government headquarters.
The transition of power began with Hon. Don Unachukwu, hailing from Awka-Etiti, serving as the transition Chairman from 2016 to 2022. The recent appointment of Hon. Amaka Obi, also from Awka-Etiti, has further fueled frustrations. The Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s administration sought to bring about equity and fairness in Idemili South, ensuring that other communities within the local government area are accommodated in leadership positions.
However, Hon. Amaka Obi’s apparent resistance to this directive and the popular wish of stakeholders and the people has caused concern within the APGA party. It is viewed as detrimental to the party’s interests, as they strive to uphold the principles of democracy and address the need for equal representation among the various communities.
The protest in Ojoto serves as a strong demonstration of the frustrations and grievances felt by the community. Youths who are at the forefront of the demonstration vow to shut down the local government headquarters until their demands for a fair and more inclusive leadership are met.
The outcome of this growing opposition and the subsequent actions taken by both Hon. Amaka Obi and the state government remain uncertain. However, one thing is clear – the people of Idemili South are determined to fight for their democratic rights and ensure that the political landscape reflects the diversity and aspirations of their community.
