In a remarkable show of grassroots democracy and civic maturity, the people of Nnewi in Anambra State have expressed delight over the peaceful and transparent conduct of the Nzuko-Ora town union election, held on Sunday, under the direct supervision of the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and Community Affairs, Chief TonyCollins Nwabunwanne.
The highly anticipated election, which many feared might be marred by tension, went on smoothly and was widely praised for its credibility, drawing accolades from stakeholders across the four quarters of Nnewi—Otolo, Uruagu, Umudim, and Nnewi-Ichi.
At the end of the exercise, Prince Jude Osumuoh emerged as the newly elected President-General, having polled 133 votes to defeat his closest rival, Prof. Edwin Maduka, who garnered 117 votes. The third aspirant, Arch. Ogwueke Nwafor Orizu, had earlier withdrawn from the race. Out of the 253 accredited delegates from 51 administrative wards, five were absent, and two ballots were voided.
The election, conducted strictly in line with the Nnewi Constitution and the union’s rotational zoning principle, witnessed orderly proceedings. Voting was carried out in batches of five delegates at a time, with the use of phones strictly prohibited to ensure focus and prevent undue influence. Voters were instructed to write only one name on their ballots, even if a candidate had multiple names. It was Otolo’s turn to produce the President-General, following the completion of Dr. Maduka Atueyi’s tenure from Nnewi-Ichi.
Chief Nwabunwanne, who personally monitored the election alongside his team and the Mayor of Nnewi North LGA, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, praised the people of Nnewi for their peaceful conduct and the electoral committee for upholding transparency. He commended the town’s leadership for setting a shining example for other communities in the state to emulate. His presence and close monitoring were seen as pivotal in ensuring the credibility of the election, earning him widespread appreciation from the people.
The presence of Prince Ogwueke Nwafor Orizu, who represented the Igwe of Nnewi, further reaffirmed the traditional institution’s support for democratic processes that foster community unity and inclusion.
Before voting commenced, a motion to dissolve the outgoing executive was moved by Amobi Adukwulu and seconded by Azubuike Uchedife. The former executive was warmly appreciated for their dedicated service. Interestingly, most of the executive positions were filled unopposed, reflecting a general consensus and unity among the stakeholders.
The newly elected executive includes Prince Jude Osumuoh as President-General, Chike Aguncha as Secretary-General, Izuchukwu Onyeawusi as Assistant Secretary, Prince Vincent Mbonu as Financial Secretary, Ikebunwa James as Publicity Secretary, Chukwuma Anekwe as Welfare Officer, and Uchenna Nwa Aba as Provost.
Prince Jude Osumuoh, a respected businessman and former Vice President-General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, brings to the leadership years of experience and deep commitment to community service. Known for his entrepreneurial success and philanthropic activities, his emergence has raised hopes for stronger unity, development, and economic progress in the industrial town.
With the new executive set to serve a four-year term, the people of Nnewi are optimistic that the foundations of peace, progress, and prosperity laid by the transparent electoral process will continue to flourish under responsible and visionary leadership.
