Breaking: Crisis Looms in Ameke Oduma Autonomous Community Over Power Tussle for President General
A brewing leadership crisis is currently shaking the foundations of the Ameke Oduma Autonomous Community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, following a controversial move to impose a caretaker leadership structure contrary to the community’s constitution. The power tussle is threatening the peace and unity of the once-tranquil community and has raised serious questions about due process and the rule of law.
The crisis began after the tenure of the incumbent President General (PG), Hon. Nelson Chibuzor Mbah, approached its constitutional expiration date of April 8, 2025. In compliance with the rules governing the leadership of the community, Hon. Mbah duly notified the Ministry of Rural Development and Chieftaincy Matters in February of the impending end of his tenure. Alongside the notification, he fulfilled all required obligations, including the payment of the stipulated #350,000 fee as directed by the ministry — a payment that remains with the ministry till date without any feedback or action.
However, what followed has thrown the community into confusion. Rather than facilitating a transition through the established electoral process as mandated by the Ameke community constitution, the Ministry — reportedly influenced by political machinations — took a controversial turn. The Commissioner for Rural Development and Chieftaincy Matters allegedly acted upon petitions and constitutional interpretations presented by a former President General of the community, Mr. Anayochukwu Oli Martins.
Mr. Martins, who appears to be leveraging his past office and connections, reportedly submitted a biased interpretation of the community's constitution. Based on this submission, the commissioner bypassed all democratic processes and installed a seven-man caretaker committee, with Mr. Martins himself as the head. This move has not only sparked outrage but is being viewed as a direct affront to the autonomy and constitution of the Ameke community.
Terms of Reference Raise Concerns
The terms of reference given to the caretaker committee have also deepened the controversy. They include:
1. Amending the Community Constitution to Include Zoning: This is seen as an overreach of power, as the amendment of the constitution lies solely with the community members and not with any caretaker body. This directive directly undermines the autonomy and self-governance rights of the community.
2. Six-Month Leadership Tenure for the Caretaker Committee: This contradicts the community’s constitution, which clearly states that elections must be conducted within one month after the expiration of a PG’s tenure. Extending this period to six months is widely seen as unconstitutional and a ploy to consolidate power.
3. Formation of a 7-Man Committee: The Ameke constitution stipulates that only a 3 or 5-member committee can be set up for transitional or electoral purposes. The appointment of a 7-man caretaker committee further violates the agreed governance structure.
Community Reactions and Rising Tensions
Tensions have escalated within the community as residents voice their discontent over what they describe as an imposition and manipulation. The actions of Mr. Anayochukwu Oli Martins, who now leads the controversial committee, are under serious scrutiny. Reports have emerged that he has begun threatening members of the community who oppose his leadership and methods. These intimidation tactics are fanning the flames of division and fear among the populace.
Many community stakeholders, including youth groups, elders, and women’s associations, have begun mobilizing to resist what they perceive as a hijack of their democratic rights. They are calling on the state government, civil society groups, and traditional rulers in Enugu State to intervene urgently and restore democratic order in Ameke Oduma.
Call for Justice and Due Process
There is a growing consensus among community members that the only path to peace is a return to due process as enshrined in their constitution. Hon. Nelson Chibuzor Mbah, the outgoing PG, has maintained a calm and lawful stance, urging the government to respect the community’s autonomy and allow a fair and transparent election process.
Legal practitioners and rights activists have also weighed in, stating that the commissioner’s actions may amount to abuse of office and a breach of fundamental community rights. There are calls for an independent investigation into the matter and for the immediate dissolution of the caretaker committee.
Unless urgent steps are taken to resolve this crisis, Ameke Oduma Autonomous Community may descend into further chaos, with long-term implications for governance and peace in the region.
The situation in Ameke Oduma is a clear reminder of the dangers posed by political interference in local governance. Respecting the will of the people, adhering to constitutional provisions, and upholding democratic values remain the best paths to sustainable development and peace. The people of Ameke deserve no less.
Join our conversation for more updates
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Paschal Arinze Chukwu Ogbo
God is watching ooo
.jpg)
