The Executive Chairman of Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Prince Ikechukwu Odono, has renewed his call for peace and unity among youths and stakeholders in the council, stressing that only a united front can end recurring clashes and unlock the area’s full potential for development.
Odono made the appeal yesterday at his Ezzamgbo country home while briefing journalists, where he also highlighted wide-ranging empowerment programmes initiated by his administration to reduce youth restiveness and promote economic self-reliance.
According to him, the council has distributed Sienna buses, empowered over 50 young people with motorcycles, trained others in diverse vocational skills, funded business start-ups, and paid school fees for more than 100 students, alongside awarding scholarships to deserving beneficiaries.
"We have empowered so many people with Sienna buses, motorcycles, skills training, and scholarships. We have also opened businesses for many youths and we are still doing more,” the council boss affirmed.
Odono disclosed that consultations were ongoing with traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth stakeholders to establish a single inclusive umbrella structure for Ohaukwu youths.
He explained that such a platform would harmonize interests, foster cooperation, and prevent factional disputes that have fueled clashes in the past.
“I have met with community youth leaders, and very soon, stakeholders will come together to ensure we have one umbrella body that will work for peace,” he said.
Reacting to reports of protests by a factional youth group laying claim to recognition, Odono cautioned against divisive tendencies and urged the aggrieved to sheath their swords and embrace dialogue.
“My advice to them is to relax. We are still brothers; we are one Ohaukwu people. Not everyone in that leadership is bad, but some have hidden agenda that do not align with the interest of our people. We will not allow such to thrive,” he warned.
On the controversy over registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Odono dismissed the claims, insisting he had received no such confirmation as council chairman.
Meanwhile, the alleged disbanded Ohaukwu Youth General Assembly (OYGA), in a statement signed by its President, Comrade Onah Emmanuel, denied reports of disbandment, describing them as unfounded and lacking legal basis.
Tagged Peace and Progress, the statement reaffirmed the group’s commitment to independence, inclusivity, and promoting the well-being of Ohaukwu youths at home and abroad.
“The Ohaukwu Youth General Assembly remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote the development and well-being of our people. We are open to all, and strive to be inclusive, respectful, and accommodating. We have not engaged in any activities that warrant disbandment,” the statement read in part.
The group urged its members to remain calm, avoid negative rhetoric, and channel their energy towards constructive dialogue that would strengthen the Assembly and advance peace and stability in the council area.
Our correspondent gathered that despite the disagreements, both the council chairman and the Assembly emphasized the need for peace, youth empowerment, and sustainable progress in Ohaukwu.
While Odono reiterated his government’s commitment to empowerment and unity, the Youth Assembly assured that it would continue to work in line with principles of peace, impartiality, and development.
Meanwhile, both voices, though from different angles, maintained that Ohaukwu can only thrive when her youths and leaders come together under one banner of harmony, mutual respect, and shared progress.
