-Raise Alarm Over Political Tensions In Umunneochi
The Ngodo Town Development Union, Youth Wing (NTDUYW), has strongly condemned what it describes as a “well-conceived and targeted” assassination attempt on Hon. Chaka Ikenna Chukwumerije, Abia State’s Commissioner for Lands, Housing & Survey.
The incident occurred on Saturday, June 7, 2025, between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m., as the Commissioner was returning from a political meeting in his hometown, Isuochi, Umunneochi Local Government Area.
According to the union, the meeting was aborted, and on his way back to Umuahia, his convoy was ambushed at the Ezinnachi area of Okigwe, Imo State, along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway.
“His vehicle was riddled with bullets as a group of yet-to-be-identified gunmen opened fire, clearly targeting the owner’s corner where they believed he was seated,” the NTDUYW said in a statement jointly signed by its President, Ekeledirichukwu Marvellous and Secretary, Agha Obioma Anyikwa. “By the grace of God, the Commissioner and three others with him escaped unhurt.”
The youth body described the attack as a “vicious and calculated attempt” on the life of Hon. Chukwumerije, noting that it could not have been a random act of banditry but rather a politically motivated assault.
They suggested that his visible loyalty and commitment to the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti may have earned him enemies — particularly among some political players from his own LGA.
“There has been a disturbing trend of toxic politics in Umunneochi,” the statement noted. “From smear campaigns on social media to orchestrated efforts aimed at undermining the Commissioner’s reputation, the environment has become one of calumny and bitterness.”
The youth body recalled that the days leading to the attack were marked by what it called “vicious online propaganda” targeting Hon. Chukwumerije and his family, baseless allegations which, they say, could have culminated in the failed assassination attempt.
Calling for unity and a change in political culture, the youth union urged political actors in Umunneochi to eschew divisiveness and join hands with Governor Otti in driving development in the area. “The ‘pull-him-down syndrome’ currently exhibited by some Umunneochi politicians is backward, wicked, and counterproductive,” the statement read.
The youth group expressed full support for the peace-building efforts being championed by Governor Otti and called on him to ensure a thorough investigation into the attack. “We urge His Excellency to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all those found complicit in this devilish act are brought to justice.”
In conclusion, the NTDUYW praised Governor Otti’s efforts in tackling insecurity in Umunneochi and restoring peace to the area. “Your Excellency, we are indeed grateful for your unprecedented achievements since assuming office,” the statement said.
The Union called for vigilance, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to progress among all political stakeholders in Umunneochi.