Ishi-Ozalla Community Appeals to Governor Peter Mbah to End Intimidation of Supporters

Concerned citizens of Ishi-Ozalla community in Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State have urged Governor Peter Mbah to intervene and halt the alleged harassment and intimidation of individuals who supported his candidacy during the 2023 general elections.

The community, which had previously declared its support for Governor Mbah over the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Mr. Frank Nweke Jnr, now alleges intimidation against its members.

Addressing journalists in Enugu, Chief Ike Ogbodo, the leader of the Concerned Citizens, stressed the need to distinguish between politics and governance, emphasizing that citizens should support the government for development.

He recounted previous issues faced by the community, including the purported suspension of their President General and the imposition of a traditional ruler.

He noted that Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi had intervened at the time and emphasized that due process should be followed.

The group expressed concern over the current situation, including attempts to impose a new President General despite the unresolved issues from the previous election.

They highlighted the need for Governor Mbah’s intervention to prevent further division and ensure fair governance.

Another member of the group, Mr. Solomon Uchegbu, appealed to Governor Mbah to address the divisions in Ishi-Ozalla, emphasizing the community’s need for development despite its historical significance.

The group called for the constitution of a panel of inquiry to resolve the issues amicably, reiterating their support for Governor Mbah’s administration and acknowledging his recent victory at the Supreme Court as a confirmation of the people’s mandate.

In response, the embattled President General of Ishi-Ozalla community, Mr. Obinna Nvene, confirmed that he had been unable to function since March 2021 due to the unresolved issues.

He commended the efforts of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development to address the crisis and urged citizens to remain law-abiding and supportive of Governor Mbah’s administration.