The long-standing unity of Umudiawa Ancient Kingdom in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State is facing a serious test following the emergence of a leadership dispute that has divided the community.
For decades, Umudiawa has been known for its cohesion under the traditional leadership of His Royal Eminence, Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu (Oroko Abia), the Diawa of Umudiawa Ancient Kingdom and immediate past Chairman of the Ohuhu Council of Traditional Rulers. However, recent events have triggered internal tensions, resulting in the formation of a splinter community union.
The Umudiawa Community Development Union (UCDU), traditionally recognised as the umbrella body of the community, recently held its scheduled conference at the community hall. Less than 24 hours later, a rival group, the Umudiawa Progressive Union (UPU), announced a parallel conference, a development that has deepened divisions within the kingdom.
The Umudiawa Palace has accused the Member representing Umuahia/Ikwuano Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha, of sponsoring and backing the splinter union. According to palace sources, the alleged support is part of a wider political disagreement, with claims that the traditional ruler is being targeted over perceived support for the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a further allegation, the palace claimed that the name of the traditional ruler was deliberately excluded from the protocol list of a recent event, allegedly on the instruction of Hon. Aguocha. Palace officials alleged that the lawmaker insisted the presence of the monarch in the programme could discourage Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, who was billed as the special guest of honour, from attending.
As at the time of filing this report, efforts to reach Hon. Obi Aguocha for his reaction to the allegations were unsuccessful, as calls to his known lines were not returned.
Community stakeholders have expressed concern over the development, warning that continued division could undermine peace and development in Umudiawa, while calling for dialogue and restraint among all parties involved.
