Power tussle: Idemili North chairman cancels Ifeanyi Ibezi’s stakeholders’ meeting, threatens arrests

By Ifeizu Joe

The Chairman of Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Hon Stanley Nkwoka has cancelled a stakeholders meeting convened by a House of Representatives aspirant, Hon. Ifeanyichukwu Ibezi.

THE RAZOR learnt that the cancelation is because of a perceived power tussle between the aspirant who is a former lawmaker and the chairman over who the political leader of the area is.

Ibezi who is a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) had called for a political meeting of people of the area, hoping to use the opportunity to declare his ambition, but the local government chairman citing insecurity cancelled the meeting.

A source told our correspondent that the chairman may not be happy that Ibezi sees himself as the political leader of the area and has also assumed the title of Ochiagha Idemili, meaning the leader of Idemili people.

A letter by the chairman to Ibezi cancelling the meeting was titled: “Counter statement to the “UNHOLY INVITATION” regarding the proposed stakeholders’ meeting convened by Hon. Ifeanyichukwu Anthony Ibezi, PH.D”

The letter read: “This is to formally address and respond to the proposed convergence of stakeholders of Idemili North and South Federal Constituency, as announced by Hon. Ifeanyichukwu Anthony Ibezi.

“While the stated objective of the meeting is to foster sincere engagement and thoughtful dialogue on the current realities within our constituency, the following critical concerns have been identified.

“The proposed meeting will not hold as the relevant authorities in Idemili North were not duly consulted prior to its announcement. The chosen venue, Nkwo Agbaja Civic Center, has been assessed and deemed to pose a significant security risk.

“In light of these concerns, all stakeholders from Idemili North and South are strongly advised to stay away from the venue. Security enforcement measures will be in place, and any unauthorized gathering at the location may lead to arrests.

“Any such engagement of this nature must be held in a secure and neutral environment, following proper consultation with relevant authorities and thorough risk assessment.

“Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or unfamiliar individuals within Idemili North.

“Party officials across Idemili North and South Local Government Areas are hereby placed on high alert regarding the potential for a breakdown of law and order and are advised to act accordingly. Please be guided accordingly.”

As at the time of filing this report, I ezi was yet to release any statement on this, regarding whether his campaign organization would proceed with the meeting or not.