The attention of the Office of the Chairman, Engr. Sunny Oche, has been drawn to a series of grave and misleading allegations circulating in certain quarters, particularly concerning the selection of a Ward Head in Ukwonyo Community and purported threats to lives allegedly linked to the process. While the Chairman takes all matters relating to the safety and well-being of citizens with utmost seriousness, it is necessary to firmly rebut these unfounded claims and set the record straight in the interest of truth, peace, and public confidence.
For clarity, while one of the major contenders who emerged second in the selection process exercised his constitutional right to seek legal redress, the matter was duly adjudicated upon by a competent court of law, with judgment delivered in favour of the current Ward Head Elect. This outcome affirms that the process was subjected to judicial scrutiny and found to be valid. It is important to emphasise that the judgment remains binding and subsisting unless and until it is set aside or stayed by a higher court. Matters of litigation and their outcomes are entirely beyond the control or influence of the Local Government Chairman, who is duty-bound to respect the rule of law.
Secondly, the allegation that the Chairman influenced or imposed any candidate is entirely false and without merit. The Office of the Chairman does not determine the criteria for selection, nor does it possess the authority to unilaterally install a Ward Head. The process is independently conducted by designated bodies, and those who participated in the voting or decision-making process, many of whom represent diverse interests, are alive and available to attest that no inducement, coercion, or interference emanated from the Chairman. Engr. Sunny Oche has consistently upheld neutrality and has remained committed to promoting transparency and fairness in all community affairs.
Furthermore, the Chairman holds in the highest regard the authority of the Benue State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as duly constituted by the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, as well as the revered Idoma Traditional Council under the leadership of the Och’Idoma, HRM Agaba-Idu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John. Decisions regarding traditional leadership are products of these legally and culturally recognised institutions, and the Chairman is bound to respect and implement such decisions. Any attempt to attribute their outcomes to the Chairman is a clear misrepresentation of roles and responsibilities.
On the disturbing allegations of violence, intimidation, and other unlawful acts reportedly occurring within Ukwonyo Community, the Chairman unequivocally condemns any form of violence or threat to human life. However, it is important to state that these claims must be subjected to proper investigation by relevant security agencies. The Office of the Chairman neither condones nor shields any individual found culpable of criminal conduct, regardless of status. Citizens are therefore encouraged to channel credible complaints through appropriate legal and security frameworks rather than resorting to public accusations that may inflame tensions or compromise ongoing peace efforts.
In conclusion, the Office of the Chairman urges all stakeholders and residents of Ukwonyo Community to remain calm, law-abiding, and committed to peaceful coexistence. The spread of unverified allegations and inflammatory statements only deepens division and undermines collective progress. Engr. Sunny Oche remains dedicated to the principles of justice, due process, and community harmony, and will continue to support all lawful measures aimed at sustaining peace and development across Ado Local Government Area.
Signed,
Innocent Igelle, cLMiH, mPPSN, MCAI
Be the first to comment