The Deputy Governor of Abia State Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu has dismissed allegations linking him to the violent crisis in Okon village, Ohafia Local Government Area, describing the claims as false, reckless, and deliberately misleading.
The statement followed the circulation of social media posts accusing the Deputy Governor of involvement in the leadership dispute that escalated into violence within the community.
According to the press release, Engr. Emetu has no ancestral, political, or traditional ties to Okon village. The office stressed that the Deputy Governor holds no interest in the internal affairs of the community and plays no role in the selection of village heads known as Ezieogo. Such selections follow long standing customs and remain the exclusive responsibility of the concerned communities and traditional institutions in Ohafia.
The release further clarified that the Okon leadership dispute existed long before the current administration. Parties involved remain fully aware of the root causes of the conflict. Attempts to associate the Deputy Governor with the crisis were described as calculated efforts to shift blame and stir division.
The Ohafia Council of Monarchs, recognized as the highest traditional authority in the Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, has intervened several times and continues to manage the matter.
The Deputy Governor strongly condemned the burning of the residences and palaces of the Ezieogo of Okon, HRM Benard Kama, and the Nnaka IV of Okon Aku Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Ndukwe Iko. He also condemned the destruction of property and threats to lives recorded during the violence.
Following reports of the incident, the Deputy Governor took immediate steps to ensure injured persons received medical care. Victims were evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre in Umuahia, where treatment is ongoing.
The statement called on all parties to remain calm and allow security agencies to carry out investigations. Law enforcement authorities have commenced actions aimed at identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the attacks.
The Office of the Deputy Governor warned against further attempts to link Engr. Emetu to matters outside his knowledge or responsibility, describing such actions as dangerous and harmful to public trust and governmental harmony.
The Deputy Governor reaffirmed commitment to peace, due process, and respect for traditional institutions. The people of Okon were urged to embrace dialogue and lawful means to resolve disputes.
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