Nnewi PG dismisses reported pull-out threat by Nnewi Ichi, insists elective tenure is four years

Prince Jude Osumuo, the President-General of Nzuko Ora Nnewi, has publicly refuted claims that Nnewi Ichi, one of the community's four quarters, is threatening to withdraw from the central body. The reported threat stems from a disagreement over the tenure of the Mayor of Nnewi North Local Government Area and the community's established zoning arrangement for elective offices.

Osumuo clarified that, according to the community's zoning system, elective positions are rotated among the four quarters, Umudim, Uruagu, Nnewi Ichi, and Otolo, on a four-year basis. He explained that the current conflict arises from differing interpretations following the Anambra State House of Assembly's approval of a two-year initial tenure for local government chairmen. Some members of Nnewi Ichi believe it is their turn to produce the next mayor, while others maintain the position remains with Umudim under the existing rotation.

The President-General emphasized that Nzuko Ora Nnewi recognizes a four-year rotational tenure for its elective offices and that the statutory tenure of local government chairmen is a matter for the government to decide. He assured representatives from Nnewi Ichi that their turn would indeed come after Umudim concludes its current term. Osumuo also dismissed a circulating document that purportedly supported a different interpretation of the zoning arrangement, stating it was unsigned, not an official record, and possibly a draft.

Furthermore, Osumuo denied claims that the traditional ruler of Nnewi, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, would boycott the Afia Olu Festival, noting the monarch's active involvement in preparations. He also refuted allegations that the Secretary of Nzuko Ora Nnewi was suspended due to the tenure dispute, attributing the suspension to alleged misconduct. The core issue remains the differing interpretations of the zoning arrangement and the tenure of the local government chairmanship among community stakeholders.