Tension gripped the Izzo community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State on Friday as women and youths confronted Mathias Adum, a senior aide to Governor Francis Nwifuru, over alleged attempts to influence the selection of the area’s first traditional ruler. The confrontation disrupted an official election and coronation ceremony, leaving residents calling for a transparent process.
Residents had gathered at the Izzo Estate Square for the historic event, which was being supervised by the state ministry responsible for traditional institutions. According to eyewitnesses, the arrival of Adum immediately raised concerns among locals, who accused him of favouring a particular candidate.
The situation escalated when Adum reportedly introduced a new requirement mandating that all aspirants undergo screening by the State Security Service (SSS). Eyewitnesses claimed this led to the disqualification of the community’s most popular candidate. However, a female SSS officer countered the claim, asserting that the candidate had, in fact, completed the screening process.
Frustration among the crowd, particularly women who had turned out in large numbers, soon boiled over into a protest. Some participants reportedly threw stones and small objects at the governor’s aide, forcing security personnel to evacuate him and other officials from the venue. The election and coronation exercise was subsequently suspended.
The disruption has left the newly autonomous Izzo community in a state of uncertainty. Many residents are now appealing to Governor Nwifuru to ensure a fair and community-driven selection process for their first traditional ruler. They argue that political interference threatens peace and undermines public trust in local governance.
Observers say the incident highlights growing concerns over political influence in chieftaincy selections across Ebonyi State, warning that similar tensions could arise in other emerging autonomous communities if not addressed. Despite the upheaval, many residents remain hopeful that swift action from the state government will restore calm and guarantee a credible process.
As the Izzo community awaits further government intervention, the focus remains on ensuring that the selection of its first traditional ruler reflects the genuine will of the people, free from political manipulation.
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