“Facts, Not Fear”: Awka Youth Leaders Dismiss ‘Extortion’ Claims Over Proposed Central Palace Project

By Our Reporter

Leaders of the Awka Youth Council (AYC) have dismissed allegations that the proposed Awka Central Palace Project is a multi-billion naira extortion scheme, describing the claims as “baseless speculation” designed to sow division and mislead the public before official project details are released.

In a strongly worded response, the council challenged the credibility of the group behind the publication titled “Concerned Awka Youth Raises Alarm Over Plot to Extort Awka Sons and Daughters Through Multi-Billion Naira Palace Project,” insisting that the report lacks factual backing and relies on unverified assumptions.

Questions Over the Identity of the Accusers

The youth leaders questioned the legitimacy of the group calling itself the “Concerned Awka Youth” or “Awka Youth General Assembly,” noting that no widely recognized or constitutionally established body exists under either name.

“Any group seeking to speak on behalf of Awka youths must first establish its legitimacy, membership and mandate. Anonymous organizations cannot claim to represent the collective voice of Awka people,” the statement read.

₦1.5 Billion Cost Claim Described as Speculation

The council also faulted claims that the proposed palace project would cost ₦1.5 billion, stressing that no official budget, project design, bill of quantities or implementation framework has been released by the Anambra State Government.

“Where did the authors obtain the ₦1.5 billion figure? Without any official budget or cost estimate, such claims remain pure speculation intended to provoke unnecessary public outrage.”

Government, Not Individuals, Driving the Project

According to the statement, the proposed Central Palace Project is expected to be executed under the supervision of the Anambra State Government, with Awka indigenes primarily expected to provide a suitable site and support the initiative as stakeholders.

The council argued that it is misleading to suggest that community leaders intend to impose arbitrary levies or extort residents when no official funding model has been announced.

No Evidence of Extortion

Responding to allegations of planned extortion, the youth leaders maintained that no compulsory levy, fundraising template or financial demand has been introduced.

“Serious allegations require credible evidence—not assumptions. To date, there is no official announcement supporting claims of extortion.”

Calls for Transparency Should Follow Official Guidelines

The statement further argued that it is premature to accuse project promoters of secrecy when government implementation documents have yet to be released.

The council urged residents to allow the appropriate authorities to unveil the project’s framework before drawing conclusions.

A Cultural Landmark, Not a White Elephant

Defending the proposed palace, the Awka Youth Council described it as more than just a physical structure, saying it represents the history, heritage and dignity of the Awka traditional institution.

“Supporting cultural development does not mean abandoning roads, education, healthcare or security. Communities can pursue multiple development goals simultaneously.”

Boycott Call Branded Premature

The council also criticized calls for residents to boycott meetings and future fundraising activities related to the project, describing such actions as divisive and unjustified.

“Consultation should come before condemnation. Public opinion should be guided by facts—not rumours.”

Call for Responsible Public Discourse

While reaffirming citizens’ right to demand accountability once official documents are made public, the youth leaders cautioned against spreading misinformation capable of creating unnecessary tension within the community.

“Awka deserves honest conversations, not propaganda. Let facts—not speculation—guide public discourse. Our community has always progressed through unity, mutual respect and constructive engagement.”

The statement was jointly signed by Chief VC Anagor Ojichukwubuluzo, Secretary-General of the Awka Youth Council (AYC), and Chief Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Ogwali n’Ogwali), Chairman of the Awka Youth Council.