The Custodian of Culture and Tradition of Ojoto community, known as Otu Omenani Ojoto Akanasato, along with the G-24 pressure group, has called on Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene in a looming chieftaincy crisis. The community leaders expressed concerns about the potential breakdown of law and order, citing alleged non-compliance with the constitution of Ojoto Akanasato Union in the conferment of chieftaincy titles.
During a joint meeting of Otu Omenani Ojoto Akanasato, G-24, and Umuokpu held at the residence of Otu Omenani Chairman Chief Anthony Uzoekwe, the groups appealed for the governor’s intervention. The Otu Omenani had previously written an open letter addressing the community’s recent developments and their decision to take the leadership, headed by HRM Igwe Gerald Mbamalu, to court. They cited eight points against the reviewed constitution of Ojoto Akanasato Union.
Responding to the situation, the G-24 submitted a letter to Governor Soludo on December 15, 2023, outlining 14 points that allegedly contradicted Ojoto’s tradition, culture, norms, and constitution. The issues raised by the G-24 included the closure of Pentecostal churches, desecration of religious altars, alleged high levels of criminal activities, concerns about the Ofalla Festival, and the sale of Ichie and Chieftaincy titles.
The groups previously staged a peaceful protest at the Local Government Secretariat, displaying placards with messages such as “We say no to lawlessness in Ojoto” and “Our Constitution must be obeyed in our town, Ojoto.”
Speaking to journalists, Chairman of Otu Omenani, Dr. Anthony Uzoekwe, criticized the present leadership for not adhering to the community’s constitution, emphasizing the potential consequences for chaos and anarchy. He urged the Anambra State Government to intervene and ensure proper adherence to the community’s laws.
Onyedika Offor, Chairman of G-24 Ojoto, explained that the group had brought attention to the situation, which they deemed contrary to the community’s constitution. He emphasized the need to escalate the matter to authorities for a lasting solution.
Vice-chairperson of Umuokpu, Justina Osuno, echoed the sentiments of the G-24 and called for the community’s leadership to follow the constitution, ensuring equity, fairness, and good governance.
Efforts to reach the President General of the town, Chief Donatus Anozie, for comments were unsuccessful, as his phone line was unavailable at the time of filing the report.