A group of women from the Uzoagba Ancient Kingdom in the Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State recently protested against council chairman Justice Nze. They claim Nze is forcing a traditional ruler and a President General onto the community, bypassing established community customs and constitutional processes.
On Friday, the women gathered at the Iho council headquarters, displaying placards that demanded the preservation of their traditional selection rights and rejected the appointment of leadership. Mrs. Maria Emetumba, who leads the women’s wing of the Uzoagba Development Union, stated the goal of the march was to prevent conflict and urged the chairman to halt any election proceedings while the dispute remains active in court.
Secretary-General Ezinne Patricia Ndukwu noted that the legitimacy of the President General role is currently being contested in court. They argued that any government intervention could be viewed as contempt. Michael Chibuike Okpara, a community youth leader, echoed these concerns, cautioning that interference risks disrupting the unity of Uzoagba.
Bernadette Obiyor, the group’s matron, warned that proceeding with elections before the scheduled court date of August 14, 2026, would violate the judicial process. Responding to the demonstration, Justice Nze voiced frustration over not receiving prior notice of the protest. He maintained that his actions were lawful and aimed at stability, asserting his belief that the legal matter was already settled.
