Indigenes of Agbudu Community in Orumba South Local Government Area have protested over what they termed unconstitutional tenure elongation of the incumbent President General, Mr. Cyril Okpalaeke
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that
ndi Agbudu took the protest to Anambra State government house, stating that
tenure elongation of the PG is causing disaffection in the community, threatening the peace they enjoy.
The protesters where chanting solidarity songs to express their grievances, and held placards with inscriptions such as: “We say no to illegalities and abuse of power”. “Mr. Cyril Okpalaeke, leave us in peace”. Conduct fresh election in Agbudu”. “We say no to tenure elongation. Enough is enough”.
Speaking while showing their displeasure over the situation, Chief Nwangu Igem explained that the current PG’s tenure expired January 2025 but to remain in office, the PG amended the constitution without the knowledge of the community in order to remain in office.
Mr. Igem noted that the PG also deceived some persons to join him in his plot without recourse to due process, including those in government saying that they are currently challenging the constitutional review in court, pleading that government wades into the matter and conduct fresh PG election for the community.
A youth leader from the community, Mr. Paul Osunkwo, pleaded that the government should conduct fresh election for the community for peace and progress to be sustained
Also speaking, the Umuada woman leader of Agbudu, Mrs. Ngozi Okpalaeke and another community member, Chief Osita Okoli, explained that it is important that the current leadership issue does not escalate, as the conduct of fresh PG election is a way out, urging Mr. Cyril Okpalaeke to tow the honorable line by doing the right thing.
Responding, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Hon. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, commended the community for a peaceful protest over the issue and emphasized that the ministry is making effort to peacefully resolve the matter, noting also that the matter is before a court and the ministry cannot override the court, calling for a peaceful approach to resolving the dispute.
