Nzuko Ora Nnewi Denies Threat of Nnewi Ichi Withdrawal Over Mayoral Tenure Dispute

The President General of Nzuko Ora Nnewi, Prince Jude Osumuo, has dismissed reports that Nnewi Ichi, one of the four quarters of Nnewi, is planning to withdraw from the community’s umbrella body over disagreements concerning the tenure of the Mayor of Nnewi North Local Government Area.

Speaking in Nnewi, Osumuo said the reported threat was unfounded, stressing that the community’s established zoning arrangement provides for the rotation of elective positions among Umudim, Uruagu, Nnewi Ichi and Otolo.

He explained that the disagreement arose from differing interpretations of the tenure of the local government chairmanship, especially as preparations continue for the forthcoming local government elections. While some members of Nnewi Ichi believe it is their turn to produce the next mayor, others maintain that the position remains with Umudim under the existing rotation arrangement.

Osumuo said Nzuko Ora Nnewi recognises a four year rotational arrangement for elective offices within the community, while the statutory tenure of local government chairmen remains a matter for the government to determine. He added that he had assured representatives of Nnewi Ichi that their turn would come after Umudim completes its slot.

He also dismissed reports of division in Nnewi, describing the alleged plan by Nnewi Ichi to withdraw from Nzuko Ora Nnewi as political. According to him, the four quarters remain united and committed to peace, equity and development.

Osumuo further denied reports that the traditional ruler of Nnewi, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, would boycott this year’s Afia Olu Festival, saying the monarch had been actively involved in preparations and would perform his traditional role at the event.

He also defended the current Mayor of Nnewi North, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, saying the dispute was about the interpretation of the zoning arrangement and not the mayor personally. He equally denied that the Secretary of Nzuko Ora Nnewi was suspended over the tenure disagreement, stating that the suspension was based on alleged misconduct.

The differing interpretations of the community’s zoning arrangement and the tenure of the local government chairmanship remain a subject of discussion among stakeholders in Nnewi.