In a remarkable display of civic duty and grassroots democracy, the ancient industrial town of Nnewi in Anambra State, yesterday Sunday, successfully conducted its highly anticipated Nzuko-Ora town union election, ushering in a new executive led by Prince Jude Osumuoh as President-General.
The peaceful and transparent election, held in accordance with the Nnewi Constitution, drew 253 accredited delegates drawn from 51 administrative wards across the town’s four quarters—Otolo, Uruagu, Umudim, and Nnewi-Ichi. Each ward was represented by five delegates, carefully selected to ensure fairness and balance across the town’s socio-political structure.
In line with the zoning principle guiding the union’s leadership rotation, it was Otolo’s turn to produce the President-General, following the completion of Dr. Maduka Atueyi’s tenure, who hails from Nnewi-Ichi. The election guidelines permitted five delegates to vote at a time, while the use of phones during voting was prohibited to prevent undue influence or distractions. Voters were also allowed to write one name, even if a candidate had multiple names.
Three aspirants initially died for the PG position;Hon. Prince Jude Osumuoh, Prof. Edwin Maduka, and Arch. Ogwueke Nwafor Orizu. However, Arch. Orizu later withdrew from the race. At the end of voting, Prince Osumuoh polled 133 votes to defeat Prof. Maduka, who garnered 117 votes. Two ballots were declared invalid, while five delegates were absent.
The election was conducted under the watchful eyes of key observers, including the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and Community Affairs, Chief TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, and his team, as well as the Mayor of Nnewi North LGA, Hon. Echezona Anazodo The Commissioner praised the electoral process for its orderliness and commended the town’s leadership for setting a standard for other communities to emulate.
Also present at the venue was Prince Ogwueke Nwafor Orizu, who represented the Igwe of Nnewi, reaffirming the traditional institution’s support for democratic processes that strengthen community cohesion.
Before the polls began, a motion to dissolve the outgoing executive was moved by Amobi Adukwulu and seconded by Azubuike Uchedife. The outgoing team was duly appreciated for their service.
Most executive positions were filled unopposed, reflecting a general consensus and unity among the stakeholders. The newly elected officers include: President-General: Prince Jude Osumuoh; Financial Secretary: Prince Vincent Mbonu; Secretary-General: Chike Aguncha;Assistant Secretary: Izuchukwu Onyeawusi; Provost: Uchenna Nwa Aba; Publicity Secretary: Ikebunwa James; Welfare Officer: Chukwuma Anekwe
Prince Jude Osumuoh, a respected businessman and former Vice President-General of Nzuko-Ora Nnewi, brings to the position years of leadership experience. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Osumuoh has long been known for his contributions to the economic development and welfare of the Nnewi community.
With the new executive that will be inaugurated for a four-year term, expectations are high among Nnewi residents and stakeholders for sustained peace, progress, and prosperity.
The election was adjudged very transparent, peaceful, free, and fair. Commissioner Nwabunwanne commended the people for conducting themselves maturely.
