The proposed creation of a new state from the present Imo State is generating controversy and ominous sign of disagreement among the various groups and political lineages in Ohaji/Egbema LGA.
In the last count, pro – Njaba/Orlu state protagonists suffered a set back when a meeting of the stakeholders, meant to advance the inclusion Orlu/Njaba state suffered a set – back when the apex leaders of the group disagreed on the inclusion.
At a meeting in the Umuapu – Ohaji country home of one of the foremost political leaders, Nze Hilary Ihueze, pro – Njaba/Orlu state kingpins could not reach a compromise on whether to remain in the present Imo (Owerri Division) or join the proposed Orlu/Njaba state.
Imo Trumpeta learnt that at the stakeholders’ discussion which comprised politicians of APGA lineage loyalists of former Governor of Imo State and some ACN Chieftains enjoying the support of the present administration, no consensus agreement or communiqué was issued at the end of the meeting.
Rather, disagreements, and buck-passing of blame gained prominence. A source, who preferred anonymity disclosed that no communiqué or resolution was issued because, the member representing Ohaji/Egbema in the Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Luke Chukwu, former Executive Chairman of the council, Chief Paulinus Oparaji and other leaders of thought not only expressed reservation about the Njaba/Orlu move but also that such action will not be to the best interest of the rich oil producing LGA in Imo State.
The divergent views expressed by the various groups during the meeting and resolve by some eminent leaders to state – a – walk – out if a resolution that they would join Orlu/Njaba state was reached forcing the meeting to reach an inconclusive departure, thereby acting short the desire of Chief Dr Goddy Esom Obodo to achieve his dream of dragging Ohaji/Egbema to Orlu/Njaba state.
Dr Obodo is the secretary of the Orlu/Njaba state Movement and has been at the forefront of the move to include Ohaji/Egbema in the proposed new state.
