The Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Hon. Eugene Cheta Epelle, has been accused of ordering the assault of his former media aide, Ogadinma Minnie Uchechi, following a social media post highlighting the poor condition of Community Secondary School in Odiokwu.
According to Uchechi, the incident occurred on March 1, 2026, when the council chairman allegedly arrived at her residence with his younger brother and aides, accusing her of tarnishing his reputation and instructing his brother to “teach her a lesson.” She claims that both she and her mother were physically assaulted, with a shovel reportedly used during the attack before neighbours intervened.
The allegations sparked public outrage, prompting the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) to petition the Rivers State Police Command, calling for a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident. Human rights groups have condemned the alleged attack and urged authorities to protect citizens who raise concerns about public infrastructure and governance.
In response, the Ahoada West Local Government Council denied the claims, describing them as false and misleading. The council stated that the chairman did not assault Uchechi or order anyone to do so. According to the council, the chairman visited her residence to hold a peaceful discussion, during which she allegedly became confrontational and sustained minor injuries after falling. The statement also clarified that the Community Secondary School falls under the Rivers State Government, not the local council.
As of now, the Rivers State Police Command has not released any statement on arrests or charges, and the matter remains under public scrutiny. The incident has reignited calls for accountability and transparency in local governance, particularly regarding how officials respond to citizens raising issues about public facilities.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
No comments:
Post a Comment