Uzoma Francis Osuoha

Among my other engagement on the 28th of April, 2024, I attended the wedding reception in honour of Mr and Mrs Chigozie Caleb Nwandi both from Umuagwu Mgbuisii, Ohaji,

My message to the newlywed couple was, marriage is not a bed of roses. You will have challenges even from day One. Even brothers and sisters do have disagreement. But I want you to bear something in mind: Approach your marriage from a philosophical point of view. That since you cannot say my former father and my former mother, don't ever hope to say my former wife, or my former husband.

If you have that in mind, every disagreement that you have, you will settle it knowing that you are now tied in blood and that you have made a vow before God to live together, for good or for bad, for the rest of your life. Once you have that in mind, every other thing will be settled."

🇳🇬

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE

On behalf of the good and industrious people of Ohaji/Egbema , I am delighted to extend my warmest congratulations to you, HON. CHIEF PRINCEWILL ONYEAGU (NDUGA) on your well-deserved appointment and subsequent swearing-in as Sole Administrator of Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area. This is a remarkable achievement that highlights your exceptional dedication and hard work.

Your previous role as the IMC member in Ohaji/Egbema LGA has undoubtedly contributed to your vast experience and expertise in public service. We are confident that your appointment as SOLAD will allow you to further utilize your skills and make a positive impact in your new capacity.

The people of Ohaji/Egbema firmly believes that you will bring your wealth of experience and knowledge to bear in the discharge of your duties. Your appointment is a testament to your exceptional abilities and we are assured that you will excel in your new role.

As you embark on this new chapter of your career, we pray that the Almighty bestows upon you wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. May you find fulfillment and satisfaction in your work as you serve diligently and passionately.

Once again, congratulations on your appointment and swearing-in as Sole Administrator, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area. We celebrate your accomplishments and wish you continued success in all your endeavors.

🇳🇬

As we celebrate Worker's Day, I extend my deepest gratitude to every hardworking individual in Imo. Your commitment forms the backbone of our vibrant city. Today, we acknowledge your efforts and the progress we've achieved together.

I acknowledge the immense contributions of our state's workforce which is renowned for its dedication, resilience, and innovation.

I, therefore salute the teachers who nurture young minds, the farmers who cultivate our land, the doctors and nurses who safeguard our health, the engineers who build our infrastructure, and countless others who dedicate their skills and energy to building a better Imo.

Today, let us not only celebrate work but also reflect on how we can be a better and more productive workforce.

Moving forward, our government remains dedicated to improving working conditions and creating more opportunities for every Imolites. Let's keep building a brighter future for all. Together, we are unstoppable.

On this Workers’ Day, I celebrate the spirit of work with pride. May it continue to be a source of strength, prosperity, and national progress for Nigeria.

🇳🇬

On Sunday 28th of April, 2024, I and my staff joined other mourners to attend the final funeral ceremony of Late Elder JACOB ONYEMA NWOKE, father to one of my personal aides, Mr. CAMPIN CHIBUIKE NWOKE, at Umuowu Umuine, Ummuonie Awarra, Ohaji /Egbema L.G.A, Imo State.

May God who it pleased to call him home, grant him eternal rest, and grant his families, and all of us who mourn him, the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.

My family and I will remain in earnest prayers for their immediate families, that God will comfort them.

🇳🇬

GOOD MORNING and welcome to the last day of the month, today Tuesday the 30th of April 2024. We thank Almighty God for his abundance goodness, infinite mercies and grace upon our lives. Many people started the month with us, but they are no more alive. It's by his grace that we are not consumed by the enemies. Hallelujah glory be to his holy name. He made us to start well and we are ending it well, thank you Jesus.l pray that from today you shall experience joy like never before, peace that no man can give, wealth in its abundance and grace that moves mountain in Jesus' name. No matter the darkness around you, your star will shine brighter in Jesus' name. God will speak peace to your storm, the reasons for stagnation will be eliminated, and progress will follow in Jesus' name. This year shall be a year of abundance for you and your family IN JESUS MIGHTY NAME Amen. Good morning, and happy Tuesday to you. By the power that created the heavens and the earth we shall all cross over to the month of MAY and it shall be a better month and a month that our destiny has been waiting for to manifest God's goodness in our lives in Jesus wonderful and mighty name - Amen

To our majestic Eze, His Royal Highness Eze M. C. Nwokoma (OKAA OMEE IV) of Umuokanne Autonomous Community, may your special day be filled with joy, love, and blessings fit for a ruler of your caliber. On your birthday, my dear Eze, may you be surrounded by loyal subjects, abundant treasures, and countless reasons to smile. Wishing you a regal celebration! Happy birthday to the ruler of our hearts and the embodiment of nobility. May your reign be blessed with prosperity, peace, and everlasting happiness, may all your wishes come true and your kingdom be showered with prosperity and success. As we celebrate your birthday, we honor and appreciate the leadership, grace, and strength you bring to our kingdom. May your reign be long and prosperous. Happy birthday, our noble Eze!

Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha (Eze Buguma) member representing Ohaji/Egbema state constituency.

DIBU UGWU ASSOCIATION EGBEMA KINGDOM OWERRI BRANCH PRESENTED AN AWARD OF HONOUR TO HON. DR. UZOMA FRANCIS OSUOHA (EZE BUGUMA) AS ONWA N'ETIRI ORA IN RECOGNITION OF HIS SERVICE TO GOD AND HUMANITY.
07-04-2024

The Member representing the good people of Ohaji /Egbema State Constituency, Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha (EZE BUGUMA) has been honoured today with an Award of Honour as ONWA N'ETIRI ORA.

The award was presented during a DIBU UGWU ASSOCIATION BUS Launching ceremony today .

In his speech, the Lawmaker, expressed his gratitude to the people of DIBU UGWU ASSOCIATION for finding him worthy for the great award, and also promise to contribute more and render selfless service to God and humanity.

The people expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the Lawmaker continued support and dedication towards the development and his selfless service to humanity , stressing that his generosity and commitment to community development projects have not gone unnoticed.


Other dignitaries who also graced the event were Hon. Eugene Okechukwu Dibiagwu ably represented by Asondu Chimaoku, Hon. Marcel Amadioha and Hon. Giddon Mefor GRACED the occasion among others.

✍️
Hope Sunday
media

HAPPY NEW MONTH

May this new month bring you a renewed sense of purpose, happiness, and fulfilment as we take time to assess our progress and make any necessary adjustments to ensure we are on the path that aligns with our dreams and ambitions.

Wishing you all a wonderful and productive month ahead.

WELCOME TO APRIL

EZE BUGUMA CELEBRATES EASTER, URGES CHRISTIANS TO EMULATE CHRIST AND SHOW LOVE TO ONE ANOTHER.

As Christians in Nigeria join their counterparts across the world to celebrate Easter which falls on Sunday 31st-March,2024 to commemorate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the honourable member representing Ohaji-Egbema State Constituency in the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr. Osuoha Francis Uzoma (Eze Buguma), has called on Christians in Ohaji-Egbema and beyond to emulate the saviour whose resurrection is been celebrated on Easter, and show love to one another.

Eze Buguma made this call while sending Easter message to his constituents on Saturday 30th-March,2024.
He said "As Christians around the world prepare to celebrate Easter on Sunday. It is essential to reflect on how we can contribute positively in our communities, especially in addressing the prevalent social, economic and security issues in Imo State and Nigeria at large.

"In recent times, Ohaji-Egbema has faced social, economic and security challenges leaving many in fear and want. As followers of Christ, we are called to be the light of the world and to spread love and compassion to those in need. I believe that this Easter presents an opportunity for all of us to come together and leverage the power of love to make a meaningful impact in fight against insecurity, economic and social inequality.

"Love as exemplified by Jesus Christ, is a powerful force that is capable of transforming individuals and societies.

"Christians can use Easter period to promote reconciliation and forgiveness as pathways to peace and security around the globe. Extending forgiveness to those who have wronged us and fostering reconciliation among divided communities, we can help to break the cycle of violence and build a foundation for lasting peace."

Hon. Francis added that "Love lies at the heart of the Christian faith. Jesus Christ's teachings emphasized love for one another, forgiveness and compassion. In the spirit of Easter, we are called to exemplify these values and show love not only towards our families and friends, but to others out there."

He further calls on Christians to take the lesson of love demonstrated in the parable of the good Samaritan as told by Jesus Christ, noting that the parable is a timeless and powerful story found in Luke 10:29-37, which teaches us a profound lesson about love, compassion, and kindness.

The story of the good Samaritan emphasizes the importance of practicing love, compassion towards all human beings regardless of their backgrounds, ethnicity or beliefs. The Samaritan did not let societal norms or prejudice dictate his actions, but chose to show care and kindness to a fellow human being in need.

Finally, the lawmaker admonished the good people of Ohaji-Egbema to emulate Jesus Christ and always show love to the need, and also give peace a chance to make Ohaji-Egbema a conducive environment for all of us.

Let love ❤️ lead.

Written by; *Comr. Anderson Aguguo*
(Eze Buguma Media Center)
31/03/2024.

EZE BUGUMA AND FAMILY FACIlITATE WITH THE CHRISTIANS IN OHAJI/EGBEMA,AND IMO STATE ON THE OCCASION OF TODAY'S PALM SUNDAY

HON. DR. UZOMA FRANCIS OSUOHA (EZE BUGUMA) Member Representing Ohaji/Egbema , and wife High Chief Mrs.Isoken Ogbomo Osuoha celebrate with all the Christians in Ohaji/ Egbema on the occasion of today's Palm Sunday.

Palm Sunday is a day of celebration and reflection for Christians around the world. It commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, just before his crucifixion. It's a time to remember the events of Holy Week, and to reflect on the meaning of Jesus' life and teachings." The palms that are waved on Palm Sunday represent the welcoming of Jesus into Jerusalem, and the hope that he brought to the people. Today, many churches celebrate Palm Sunday by distributing palm branches to their congregations. Some people also make Palm Sunday crosses out of palm branches, as a way to remember the sacrifice that Jesus made. Some churches hold special processions, where people carry palm branches and walk through the streets, reenacting the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.For many people, Palm Sunday is a time to reflect on the message of Jesus, and to consider how his teachings can guide our lives. It's a time to think about what it means to follow Jesus, and to serve others with love and compassion. It's also a time to remember that even in difficult times, there is always hope. Let us all remember the message of Palm Sunday, and carry it with us throughout the year. May we live with love, kindness, and compassion, and may we always find hope, even in the darkest of times. may our good Lord bless us all.

HAPPY PALM SUNDAY TO YOU ALL.

✍️ Hope Sunday
Media

EZE BUGUMA FOUNDATION SPONSORS MISS ACA PET PROJECT OF OVER 15 SECONDARY SCHOOL IN OHAJI, OHAJI/EGBEMA L.G.A.

The honourable member representing Ohaji/Egbema state constituency in the Imo state House of Assembly, Hon Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha through his foundation (Eze Buguma Foundation) sponsors the empowerment of students of various secondary schools in Ohaji, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.

The programme which was tagged “Feminine Hygiene” an initiative of Queen Uchenna Blossom Ezichiamaka (Miss Awarra Court Area) was sponsored by Eze Buguma Foundation to educate the girl child across the various schools in Ohaji on personal hygiene and the danger of various dangerous social activities some female students indulge in.

The event which took place in Assa Town School comprises mostly female students of SS 2 and SS 3 of the various schools that participated, featured activities like cultural dance, lectures, question and answer session, distribution of sanitary pads, educational materials and gift prizes.

Some of the topics that was lectured in the event include personal hygiene, drug abuse and addiction, danger of premarital s*x etc. One key moment of the event was when the students were asked the chief sponsor of the programme by one of the facilitators which one of the student answered with a plumb which prompt the Honourable member and other dignitaries to reward her with cash prize.

Eze Buguma who was physically present in the event, addressed the students. In his speech, he urged the students to take advantage of the programme and ensure they embrace personal hygiene, avoid indulging in illicit activities that will destroy their future such as drug abuse and addiction, premarital s*x in order for them to become responsible members of the society as their parents had toil a lot to make them responsible in the society, he thanked and appreciated them for participating in the programme and prayed that God bless them and grant them journey mercies back to their various homes.

In company with the house member were dignitaries like Honourable Kenneth Ekwueme (Former Special Adviser to the Governor on House of Assembly Matters), Comrade Eugene Nwosu (Chief of Staff to the Honourable Member representing Ohaji/Egbema State Constituency) and other personal aides to the house member. Also in attendance was Comrade Tochi Nicholas Nwosu (NACOY President).

*IMO ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON ISOPADEC, OIL AND GAS INTERVENES AND INTERFACES BETWEEN OBOKOFIA COMMUNITY AND STERLING GLOBAL OIL LTD*

*------------ PEACE RESTORED AT LAST*

The Imo State House Of Assembly Committee On ISOPADEC, Oil and Gas has intervened in the lingering crisis between Obokofia Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area and an Oil company, Sterling Global Oil Limited.

Speaking during the interface with the community and oil company, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon .Chief. Dr. Francis Uzoma Osuoha (Eze Buguma), who is also the Member Representing Ohaji/Egbema State Constituency, called on both Obokofia Community and Sterling Global Oil Ltd to stop further actions that would deepen the already escalated crisis. He encouraged them to show perseverance, patriotism and patience, while lasting solution was being sought for.

The meeting which took place on Wednesday, the 28th of February 2024, at the Imo State House Of Assembly complex, with Hon. Dr. Uzoma Osuoha presiding, had other Members of the Committee in attendance, as follows :

* Hon Engr Gilbert Chiedozie Nwosu, who is the Vice-chairman and Member Representing Oguta State Constituency.

* Rt Hon Chigozie Nwaneri, who is a Member of the Committee and Member Representing Oru-East State Constituency.

* Also, Hon Engr Bernard Ozoemelam, Member Representing Ehime Mbano State Constituency and Hon Chief James Uba Esile, Member Representing Onuimo State Constituency, were present as *"Participating Observants".*

Earlier, the people of Obokofia, who came to the meeting, in very large numbers, lamented how the Management of Sterling Global Oil Ltd have been indiscriminately polluting their environment, which has negatively impacted their farmlands, thereby rendering them impotent and unsuitable for cultivation, which directly makes it impossible for indigenous farmers to carter and provide for their families. According to the people of Obokofia, *"Sterling Global Oil Ltd has refused to develop our community, and they have refused to enter into any Memorandum Of Understanding, which would have brought development to our community. We are lacking on almost everything in our community, due to Sterling Global Oil Ltd's negligence ,*" as follows :

* No Workforce : They complained that job opportunities meant for them are constantly given to ghost names, who are not known in the community.

* No Homage.

* Oil Spillage into their streams, which has killed their Aquatic Animals.

* Lack of Basic Social Amenities, such as Good Roads etc. On roads, they openly wept before the Committee members, stating that their community roads, which links to other communities and local governments in the State have been destroyed by heavy duty vehicles that belongs to Sterling Global Oil Ltd, due to their impact on the roads.

They added that Obokofia community has been denied benefits as enshrined in the local content Policies And the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), such as Access to Electricity, Infrastructure and Quality Healthcare and many others. *"This is pure fraud",* they tearfully lamented.

The people of Obokofia community thereafter beckoned on the Committee to intervene and direct the Oil Company, Sterling Global Oil Ltd, to reconsider and readjust their steps and position on the community, to enhance better relationship and Corporate Social Responsibilities, CSR .

Reacting on behalf of Sterling Global Oil Ltd, the Company Liaison Officer (CLO), Chief Stanley Ebe, informed the Committee that they are working based on the documents on ground and available with them. He added that Obokofia Community, as one of their *TRANSIT LANDLORDS* has been receiving remittance, which the company has equally been remitting to 24 other *TRANSIT COMMUNITIES*, including those from Rivers State. He maintained that the *MAJOR LANDLORD* of Sterling Global Oil Ltd are Mgbala and Ubah Agwa communities.

Also, the issue of Ezeali that the Oil Company will be dealing with came up.

After listening to both parties, the following resolutions were pronounced by the Chairman Of House Committee On Isopadec, Oil And Gas, Hon Dr Chief Francis Uzoma Osuoha, after the presentation of relevant documents to the issue at hand.

1. Recognising EZEALI ONYEKACHI OZURUMBA as the duly elected EZEALI

2. Approval given to him to deal with the STERLING GLOBAL, pending when the determination of the Court Ruling.

3. Charging the EZEALI with the responsibility of forming the oil committee.

4. Henceforth, there shall be no arrest of Obokofia youths by the Oil Company, while the Community should cease attack on the Oil Company.

*Citizen Ikenna Samuelson Iwuoha* (03/03/2024

*REFLECTION FOR THE DAY.*
Thur.29/02/24.

*Please read through this COPIED post.*

*_AN ARMY COMMANDING OFFICER TOLD ME TWO THINGS HE TELLS HIS COLLEAGUES ALWAYS WHICH REALLY STRUCK A DEEP CHORD_.*

*He said ....*

*1.*
*Everyday before you go to bed, fix your uniform and hang it up on the wall opposite your bed.*

*When you get into bed look at that uniform and ask yourself.... What happens if I don't wear this uniform and try to enter any army installation..?*

*The answer is far from being saluted! You will be stopped at the gate and questioned!*

*And if another person wears this uniform and walks past the quarter guard, he will get a salute, AND not you.*

*So the salute was not for you, it was for the uniform hanging on that wall which made you what you are, but remember it's not going to be yours forever! It will go away one day...*

*So, prepare yourself for it!!*

*2.*
*Every day, when you are done with the day's work, make everyone around you step out of the office. Get up from your chair, walk across to the other side, sit down and look at your chair again.*

*There were so many orders you passed today thinking they were very important...*

*But tomorrow, someone else may sit on that same chair and may reverse all your orders, rubbishing them!*

*The orders you passed thinking you were an important person,it was actually the chair which was passing them. And that chair is only temporary! It's not going to be yours forever! It just gave you some temporary powers which will be gone the moment you leave the chair.*

*Use the powers given to you judiciously.*

*Use it to write your name in GOLD, and not otherwise.*

*Use it to wipe away tears from the faces of the less privileged in our society.*

*Use it for nation building and not with arrogance to prove your superiority!*

*May I ask you :*

*What are you using your uniform or chair for today?*

*Are you not using them to bring people down and show them where power lies?*

*Are you not using them to help just your friends and cronies even when it is not their time and just because they salute you every morning?*

*Are you not using them to divide and rule and create enmity between people?*

*What are you using them for?*

*Remember, the person today you are using your uniform or chair to destroy may be the one that will tomorrow supervise your child, nephew, niece, grandson, granddaughter, stepchild, your sister or brother.*

*How will you feel if the same is repeated on all these people?*

*Think, my brothers and sisters, think. For you do not know tomorrow!*

*- Use your uniform or chair to promote the betterment of all.*

*Be a father, mother, sister, brother, a friend to all.*

*Be an honest judge. Hear all sides of every story before deciding fairly.*

*Fear your creator.*

*Hate none, and love all.*

*Remember, Tomorrow is unknown to no man.*

Good day to you 👍

OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE MEMBER REPRESENTING OHAJI-EGBEMA STATE CONSTITUENCY IMO STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, OWERRI.

NEW MONTH FELICITATION

I *Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha (Eze Buguma)* on this 1st day of March, felicitate with my dear constituents. I wish us success in all our endeavours and healthy living in this new month of March. May we grow 🪴 and flourish abundantly to the glory of God. Amen 🙏

Happy new month my good people of Ohaji-Egbema.

✍️ Comr. Aguguo Anderson
For; Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha, Member Representing Ohaji-Egbema State Constituency and Chairman House Committee on ISOPADEC OIL and GAS.

*HON CLINTON AMADI'S MOTION RECEIVES SUPPORT AS IMO ASSEMBLY MOVES TO DECONGEST EIGHT ROADS AND STREETS USED BY TRADERS IN OWERRI MUNICIPAL, TO AVERT ACCIDENTS, HEALTH HAZARDS AND OTHER CRIMINAL ACTS*

Moved by patriotism and the need to avert road accidents, health hazards and criminal acts, the Imo State House of Assembly has moved to decongest Eight (8) roads and streets in the State capital, for free flow of vehicular movements and for the welfare of Imo citizens using the roads.

Moving the Motion, the Member Representing Owerri Municipal State Constituency and Deputy Minority Leader, Hon Chief Clinton Amadi, explained how some roads and streets in the state capital have been blocked by traders who abandoned the open space in the markets, provided by government, and opted for quick sales by blocking the roads and streets, thereby creating possibilities of motor accidents, causing negative sanitary conditions and criminal acts.

The two time lawmaker, who is also the House Committee Chairman on Digital Economy and E--Government, pleaded that the Motion which self-explained itself be supported by his Honourable Colleagues, since the State Government was desirous in making roads and streets motorable, be in good sanitary conditions and risk free for law abiding citizens to enjoy. Hon Amadi, who listed the roads and streets as ; (1) School Road, (2) Rotibi Street (3) Chikwere Street (4) Ekeonunwa Street (5) Relief Market Road (6) New Market Road (7) Nwaorie Lane (8) Industrial Market Road And Some parts of Douglas Road, complained how some persons have been benefitting from the toll being collected daily and monthly from these traders, thereby frustrating efforts to make the roads more conducive.

The Motion which was seconded by Hon Prince Obinna Egu, PhD, was co-sponsored by Rt Hon Amara Iwuanyanwu, Rt Hon Kennedy Ibeh, Hon Chigozie Nwaneri, Hon Kanayo Onyemaechi, Hon Princewill Ugochukwu Amuchie, Hon Obinna Egu, Hon Dr Henry Agbasonu And Hon Kelechi Ofurum.

The following Honourable Members supported the Motion with commendable contributions : Hon Dr Francis Uzoma Osuoha, Hon Engr Sir Innocent Ikechukwu Ikpamezie, Hon Engr Johnson Duru And Hon Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi.

When the Speaker, Rt Hon Chike Olemgbe (Represented By Rt Hon Amara Chyna Iwuanyanwu, who presided), put it to vote, it was unanimously adopted. Thereafter, he ruled as follows : *"Be It Resolved That This Honourable House Urges The Imo State Government through the services of ISAMATA AND ENTRACO to engage the Communities so affected and decongest the roads to avert risk of possible road accidents, health hazards, criminality and decongestion of the roads for free flow of vehicular movements for the betterment and welfare of the entire Imo citizens".*

*Citizen Ikenna Samuelson Iwuoha* (28/02/2024)

EKE PRECIOUS OGADINMA APPRECIATE EZE BUGUMA FOR FACILITATING JAMB REGISTRATION OF 120 OHAJI/EGBEMA SONS AND DAUGHTERS JAMBITES

Eke Precious Ogadinma of Ilile autonomous community in Ohaji /Egbema and a student of Federal Polytechnic Nekede Owerri, today 26th February 2024 presented gift to Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha (Eze Buguma) member representing Ohaji/Egbema state constituency, to appreciate him for his good works especially for facilitating 120 jamb registration of Ohaji/Egbema sons and daughters, thank you sir, this is my little way of appreciating you for what you did for our people.

Responding to her Hon. Dr. Uzoma Francis Osuoha (Eze Buguma) expresses joy and happiness over the gift and pray that God will reward her for this singular act.

*EZE BUGUMA INTERVENE IN THE LEADERSHIP TUSSLE IN UMUOBI IN ASSA AUTONOMOUS COMMUNITY IN OHAJI/EGBEMA LOCAL GOVERNMENT: URGE THEM TO EMBRACE PEACE*

The Member Representing Ohaji/Egbema State Constituency in the Imo State House Of Assembly has enjoined the people of Umuobi community in Ohaji/Egbema local government area to give peace a chance to flourish in the community. Hon Osuoha, popularly called Eze Buguma, made the call when he interacted with youths and elders of Umuobi community in a meeting held at the Imo State House of Assembly, to find solution to the youth leadership crisis that is threatening to tear the community apart. Eze Buguma cautioned that the community should not allow itself to be tagged restive area, but to allow peace to return to the troubled community. In his words, Eze Buguma said, *”As your representative here in Imo State House Of Assembly, I can’t sit and watch you tear yourself apart due to youth leadership crisis, when I know I have the capacity to instill and institute peace. I can only attract development to Umuobi community when there is peace. Give me the opportunity to reconcile the various groups and interest, so that development can come to Umuobi community. Having listened to your various opinions on why crisis have persisted in your community, I am appealing to your elders present here to go home, meet, discuss and agree on who should be the Youth President of Umuobi Peace Initiative Forum, since you elect by endorsement. After that, we will look at the issue of Youth chairman of Umuobi Ogbako. Let us take it one after the other. The Imo State Government will not take it kindly with anyone fermenting trouble in your community.”.*

Contributing, some elders and youths who attended the peace initiative expressed gratitude to Eze Buguma for inviting them to preach peace. They assured the peace-seeking lawmaker that they would comply with the directive from him, since peace and peaceful coexistence was the ultimate goal. They however gave a background to the crisis in the community.

For Comrade Akayaya Bright Ogu, *”I wrote the petition, asking for your intervention, before this problem escalates, and I am happy you have called for calm. The problem is that there are two groups struggling and fighting for power in the youth organization in the community ----- the Harrison Orji group and the Moses Ogbuji group. Election should be considered for peace to return to Umuobi community “.*

For Elder Ebenezer Ezekwe, *”This is an issue that should have been settled at home. I am shocked this matter was brought to you at the Imo State House Of Assembly “. However, use your discretion and settle this lingering crisis”.*

For Venerable Festus Okorogbo, *”Please look into the matter and let there be peace “.*

For High Chief Emmanuel Ezekwe, *”The problem of Umuobi is a self-inflicted injury. A cartel among the youths is causing the problem. If you want to organize election, you must inform the association, and not to act clandestinely. We have an unsigned constitution. We also made an oral agreement that Youth President will stay in office for only 4 years. But the current Youth President (Jonathan Echi Uluma) has stayed for 7 years. When he stayed for 4 years, we made attempts to change him, but he resisted it. This is the foundation of the present crisis in Umuobi community”.*

For Comrade Evans Reward Egeruo, *”Truth is straight. Some people refused to work towards peace, while others worked for peace and achieved it. The problem among the youths in Umuobi community is that those who didn’t work for peace wants to reap where they didn’t sow, now that benefits are about accruing. This is the truth. Pipeline wielding contract job is causing the present trouble. The Youth wing were given a part of the wielding contract by the oil companies in our area. Suddenly, the Harrison Orji youth group sprung up and started laying claims to the youth leadership, and this has been causing problems in Umuobi community. Again, we also agreed that for anybody to aspire to become Youth President, he must have CREDIT in English language, so as to be able to communicate well with officials of these oil companies operating in our area and attract development. These are the reasons why there is lingering crisis in our community. Jonathan Echi Uluma is also having youth leadership battle with Emeka Onyekere. While HRH Eze Emmanuel Asor is backing Emeka Onyekere, the Chairman of Umuobi Ogboko is backing Jonathan Echi Uluma. And Harrison Orji group is waiting in the wings to reap from the crisis”.*

For Comrade Harrison Orji, *”I don’t have much to say.. The tenures of the chairman of Ogboko Umuobi and Youth Association have elapsed. We want a new chairman, youth president respectively and that appointment and job placement are only given to those working with the village chairman, Mr Moses Ogbuji. And we are fed up with this development and as one of the leader of the village, decides to appoint my own youth leader since anyone working with Eze Emmanuel Asor are not being considered for job opportunities by the oil companies* “.

For Mr Ifeanyi Aloysius, *”The problem in Umuobi is between the Chairman and the Youths”.*

For Kingsley Ogbuji, *”Umuobi was a deserted community, due to crisis, before peace returned. Those that brought peace have used it as an excuse to perpetuate themselves in office and have continued to lead Umuobi, refusing to step down”.*

For Moses Ogbuji, *”We are never elected but appointed. It is not tenured, but whenever the elders are tired of our leadership in Umuobi, they appoint another person to lead. If the elders decides that my tenure has elapsed, I will step down immediately. The Police has even advised that the elders should settle our problem in Umuobi”.*

In his vote of thanks, the Eze-Elect of Umuobi community, Chief Julius Egeruo, thanked Hon Dr Francis Uzoma Osuoha (Eze Buguma) for his diligence and forthrightness in ensuring that peace reigns in Umuobi community. He pledged to assist in making sure the youths complied with the Honourable Member’s peace proposal.

Also present at the meeting were, Hon Chief James Uba Esile, Member Representing Onuimo State Constituency And Hon Engr Dr Bernard Ozoemelam, Member Representing Ehime Mbano State Constituency .

*Citizen Ikenna Samuelson Iwuoha* (22/02/2024)