From TCNEWS
Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, has firmly declared that the state government will only acknowledge government-recognized autonomous communities and their traditional leaders.
Speaking during a critical meeting held at his office in Umuahia, Engr. Emetu emphasized the need for peace, unity, and orderly governance across Abia’s local communities, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and discouraging disruptive groups.
The meeting, convened on June 5, 2025, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Amairoke and Orronta communities in Umunneochi Local Government Area, alongside senior government officials. Engr. Emetu stressed that only communities with official recognition and properly installed traditional rulers would be engaged and supported by the government, cautioning that any faction obstructing progress would face decisive consequences.
Echoing this stance, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Prince Uzor Nwachukwu KSC—represented by Permanent Secretary Lady Oge Maduka Esq.—clarified that Amairoke lacks autonomous community status and does not have an approved Eze-elect, underscoring the government’s position on authentic leadership recognition. Meanwhile, Commissioners for Petroleum Resources, Prof. Ogbonna Joel, and Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, urged community cooperation with state authorities to maintain peace and advance development.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the formation of a steering committee tasked with overseeing mining activities in Eluama Umuchieze Community, signaling the government’s dedication to responsible resource management and regional economic growth.
Security and governance were well represented at the session, with attendees including Assistant Commissioner of Police Enaholo George, Deputy Chief of Staff Barr Chijioke Nwankwo, and Special Adviser on Security Comdr. Macdonald Uba (Rtd).
In a separate but related development, Engr. Emetu reaffirmed the Abia State Government’s support for Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Umuahia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its operations.
Deputy Governor Emetu’s firm stance on legitimate traditional leadership aims to stabilize local governance, curb conflicts, and channel community development effectively in Abia State. Concurrently, support for media modernization reinforces the administration’s commitment to transparent communication and progress. Together, these initiatives demonstrate a comprehensive approach to governance and development, aligning with global best practices in inclusive leadership and public engagement.
During a courtesy visit by the NTA management team to the Deputy Governor’s office, Emetu praised the broadcaster’s embrace of digital transformation and pledged the state’s backing to address operational challenges such as security concerns, poor access roads, and environmental issues that hamper effective broadcasting.
General Manager of NTA Umuahia, Engr. Onukwuru, commended the state government’s pro-people policies and its role in cultivating a vibrant media landscape. He called for sustained collaboration to enhance the station’s capacity to inform and engage Abia residents.
The meeting included aides to the Deputy Governor and members of the NTA management team, highlighting a strengthened partnership between government and media to promote transparency and public awareness.
