What was meant to be a peaceful selection process for a traditional ruler in Mgbom N’Achara, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, turned chaotic on Wednesday, May 1, 2025, following the alleged violent interference by the Council Chairman, Hon. Chinonso Aja Consider.
The exercise, held at Mgbom Central School, Okposi, was organized by the community to select a new Eze (traditional ruler) through its age-old kindred-based voting system. Residents said the election began smoothly under the supervision of a local electoral committee led by Dr. Aja Uwa, a university lecturer and legislative aide to a serving senator.
However, tension erupted when Hon. Aja arrived with his entourage and abruptly took control of the process. He announced a sudden change in the voting procedure, instructed candidates to line up with their supporters a move many interpreted as a ploy to manipulate the outcome.
When it became evident that the majority had queued behind a candidate perceived to be unpopular with the chairman, he seized the microphone and declared the election cancelled.
Mr. Chukwuma Uchebe, representing the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Uchenna Igwe, objected, noted that the process had been peaceful and should continue. His protest reportedly triggered a violent response.
Eyewitnesses alleged that the council chairman later returned with armed men, assaulted Mr. Uchebe, and forcefully seized electoral documents.
“The chairman beat the commissioner’s representative in broad daylight. It was a shameful display of impunity and abuse of office,” a community eyewitness said.
Community leaders have decried the incident, calling it a “disgraceful breach of public trust.” Many have vowed to resist any attempt to impose a traditional ruler on the people.
“This is beyond politics. It is about our identity and the future of our community,” a youth leader declared.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ebonyi State Government had not issued an official statement on the incident. Hon. Aja Consider also declined to comment.
