Nnewi Leaders Dismiss Division Rumours, Reaffirm Unity, Four-Year Power Rotation

By Our Reporter

The President-General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi Union, Prince Jude Osumuoh, has dismissed claims that one of Nnewi’s four villages has withdrawn from the umbrella body, describing the reports as false and misleading.

Speaking to journalists in Nnewi, Prince Osumuoh said the four communities—Umudim, Nnewichi, Uruagu, and Otolo—continue to coexist peacefully, sharing opportunities and resources in the spirit of brotherhood.

“There is no division in Nnewi. The four villages remain united, and we will continue to work together in the interest of peace, equity, and development,” Osumuoh said.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the town’s political power-sharing arrangement, the President-General reaffirmed that the Union stands by its position that all elective offices, including that of the Local Government Chairman, are subject to a four-year rotational tenure.

According to him, the current Executive Chairman from Umudim will complete his constitutionally recognized four-year tenure before the position rotates to Nnewichi.

“There is no legally recognized document before my office that supports the claim of a two-year tenure. The document being circulated is merely a draft that was never signed or adopted by representatives of the four villages,” he stated.

Prince Osumuoh also questioned the rationale behind claims that Nnewichi had pulled out of the Union, explaining that the controversy stemmed from the removal of a former Union secretary over alleged misconduct.

“The individual at the center of this issue was removed by the unanimous decision of the executive. That action cannot be interpreted as a decision by an entire village to withdraw from the Union,” he added.

On preparations for the upcoming Afia Olu Nnewi cultural festival, the President-General assured residents that the traditional ruler of Nnewi, His Royal Highness Kenneth Orizu, is fully in charge of arrangements and will officially declare the festival open.

He urged all sons and daughters of Nnewi to remain united and support efforts aimed at preserving the town’s rich cultural heritage.

Prince Osumuoh further pledged that his administration would continue to uphold fairness, justice, and equity in the rotational leadership arrangement among Umudim, Nnewichi, Uruagu, and Otolo, stressing that Nnewi’s unity would not be sacrificed for political interests.

“Our unity is our greatest strength. No political ambition should be allowed to undermine the peace and harmony that have sustained Nnewi over the years,” he said.