Conflicting Claims Emerge Over Alleged Impeachment in Ihitte/Uboma Legislative Council
The controversy surrounding the leadership of the Ihitte/Uboma Legislative Council deepened on Wednesday as the Executive Chairman of the Local Government Area, Hon. Prince Obioha Ndukwe, denied reports that the Council Leader, Rt. Hon. Kennedy Egeonu, had been impeached.
Speaking to journalists in Owerri, Ndukwe described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that no official impeachment process had been communicated to the Executive Arm of the council. He maintained that any action of such magnitude must strictly follow established legislative procedures and due process.
The Chairman further alleged that the impeachment claim was being promoted by Hon. Emeka Ekere, who was reported in some quarters as having emerged the new Council Leader. According to Ndukwe, the Executive Arm remains unaware of any lawful proceedings leading to a change in the council’s leadership.
He stressed that any legitimate alteration in the leadership structure of the Legislative Council must be properly conducted and officially communicated through recognized government channels before it can be regarded as valid.
Ndukwe noted that his administration remains focused on governance and service delivery, including efforts to strengthen security, rehabilitate markets, improve road infrastructure, and enhance educational facilities across communities in the local government area.
However, in a contrasting account, the Majority Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Obinna Ezeji, confirmed that an impeachment had indeed taken place. Speaking in a telephone interview with Ikoro Okigwe, Ezeji disclosed that eight councillors participated in the exercise that removed the Council Leader.
According to the Majority Leader, stakeholders have since intervened and are appealing to all parties involved to embrace dialogue and reconciliation. He said efforts are ongoing to convene a roundtable discussion aimed at restoring peace and stability within the Legislative Council and the local government.
