Amaohuru Ezeship Crisis: Alaribe Urges Nze Mark Odu to Accept the Outcome and Embrace Peace
By Dike Godspower Dike
The Executive Chairman of Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area, Barr. Iheukwumere Alaribe, has urged Nze Professor Mark Odu to accept the outcome of the Amaohuru Ezeship dispute and promote peace for the community’s well-being.
Barr Alaribe reached out to Nze Professor Mark Odu, who was reportedly elected and crowned as Eze of Amaohuru Autonomous Community but did not receive official government recognition, and visited him.
The meeting focused on the controversy over Amaohuru’s traditional leadership and aimed to find a peaceful way forward for the community.
Regarding his election, Nze Professor Mark Odu explained that he was elected and crowned as Eze of Amaohuru Autonomous Community by the will and desire of the people. However, he noted that the government had not issued him the official certificate of recognition needed to be officially acknowledged as a traditional ruler.
Responding to this issue, Barr. Alaribe stated that under the current government and administrative system, Nze Odu could not be recognized as the legitimate traditional ruler of Amaohuru. He also referenced the relevant court decision and the government’s stance on the matter.
The Chairman urged Nze Odu to accept the situation for the sake of peace, unity, and stability in Amaohuru, emphasizing the importance of avoiding actions that could deepen the community’s disagreements. He assured Nze Odu that he could still play a vital role in Amaohuru’s development, not necessarily as a traditional ruler, but as an elder statesman whose experience and contributions are still highly valued.
After hearing from the Executive Chairman, Nze Professor Mark Odu assured him that he would accept the outcome humbly rather than escalate to confrontation.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the meeting, Nze Odu said his main concern is the progress, peace, and development of Amaohuru.
Nze Odu further explained that after his discussion with the Local Government Chairman, he decided to set aside his ambitions and let the people of Amaohuru determine their community’s future.
He reaffirmed his commitment to serving and uplifting his people, stating he would continue to contribute to Amaohuru’s progress with or without an official traditional title.
Those in attendance included Barr Charles Mbakwe, the secretary to the local government; Hon Ugochukwu Umunnakwe; Hon John Ikewe; Hon Sylvester Ugwuamaka; Hon Eze Oguzie, Vice President General of Amaohuru Autonomous Community; Mrs. Chinedum Ajagu DAGS; Mr. Ndubuisi Ucheghara, Treasurer; and others.
