By Amaka Nweze
The youth and women of Enugwu-Agidi have thrown their weight behind Chief Engineer Pius Nwankwo, Director of Information and Communication Technology at INEC, in the upcoming December 29, 2025 town union election. They have rejected incumbent President General Chukwuebuka Onuorah, citing lack of credibility and sincerity.
The community has been plagued by leadership crisis for three years, with Onuorah’s administration marred by allegations of land grabbing and high-handedness.
Nwankwo, who is challenging Onuorah for the top position, has promised to run an open-door policy and empower various committees to work without fear or favor. He assured that his administration would not engage in land grabbing or other illegal activities.
On the other hand, Onuorah expressed confidence in his re-election bid, citing his achievements and commitment to a free and fair poll. However, many community members have expressed dissatisfaction with his leadership and are campaigning for his defeat. The election is seen as a crucial opportunity for the community to reclaim its leadership and break free from what they describe as bondage.
The contenders for the town union poll are from the same Etiti Village, one of the nine villages in Enugwu-Agidi, where the position has been zoned to.
Both Nwankwo and Onuorah have lined up their teams for other vacant positions, and the winning executive is expected to lead Enyimba-Agidi Brotherly Union (EBU-NIGERIA) for the next three years.
Supporters of both contenders are returning from all parts of the country to join in the election, with live bands and mobilization efforts underway.
Speaking to the newsmen, Nwankwo assured that he is ready to serve, citing his academic qualifications, leadership skills, and experiences. He emphasized that his tenure would prioritize transparency and accountability.
In contrast, Onuorah maintained that he has achieved much during his tenure and is committed to a peaceful and credible election process.
Many community members, however, are adamant that Onuorah must be voted out, alleging that his administration has violated their rights and engaged in questionable land deals.
They expressed confidence in Nwankwo’s leadership abilities and assured that he would restore integrity to the union’s leadership. The Deputy Presidential candidate, Mr. Emeka Ementa, pledged that Nwankwo would not compromise or abuse power if elected.
Prince Chinedu Ikeanyi, son of the late Traditional Ruler of Enugwu-Agidi, described the election as a call for liberation from bad leadership. He endorsed Nwankwo, citing his sound moral background, education, and contributions to the community.
Other stakeholders, including Chief Jude Chikelu and Mr. Richard Nwankwo, also expressed confidence that Nwankwo’s leadership would bring an end to high-handedness and authoritarianism in the community.
