Chief Udeh’s Alleged Okija Shrine Invocation Stirs Controversy In Igbo Speaking Community

CHUKA UBAH

A leadership crisis within the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos State has taken a new turn following a viral video that purportedly shows former President of the group, Chief Sunday Udeh, invoking the Okija shrine over his removal from office.

The video, which has been trending on social media platforms, has generated widespread reactions among members of the community both in Lagos and in the diaspora.

According to members of the community, Chief Udeh was removed from office over allegations bordering on unauthorized conferment of traditional titles and accountability of funds. The funds in question are alleged to be about N150 million realized during his tenure as President. Chief Udeh has not publicly rendered account as demanded by some stakeholders at the time of filing this report.

In the video currently in circulation, a man alleged to be Chief Udeh was heard calling on the Okija shrine in Anambra State, a shrine widely known in Igbo tradition. Those circulating the video claim the invocation was directed at members who insisted on accountability and his removal.

P.M.EXPRESS has not independently verified the authenticity of the video, and Chief Udeh has not issued an official response to the claims as at press time.

Some members who spoke to our correspondent expressed concern over the development, describing it as a deviation from the community’s constitution and conflict resolution mechanisms. They called for calm and urged both parties to follow due process.

It will be recalled that Chief Udeh is also facing legal issues with the Lagos State Government over the alleged crowning of an Obi of Lagos, a matter which is currently before the court. Community members noted that the traditional and legal processes should be allowed to take their full course without resort to threats or traditional invocations.

Meanwhile, the new executive of the Igbo Speaking Community, Lagos State, led by its President, Chief Chukwudi Chinye, is said to be consolidating its leadership. According to sources within the community, the new leadership is receiving support from prominent Igbo leaders in Lagos.

Among those who have reportedly endorsed the new executive are the Ezendigbo of Lagos State, Eze Christian Uchechukwu Nwachukwu (Igbo 1), who is said to have offered royal blessings and prayers for the new team. Others include the leader of Onyendu Gburugburu, Chief Uche Dimgba, and the Ezendigbo of Mushin, Eze Monday Lawrence.

In addition, groups such as Anioma and Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State chapter, led by Chief Linus Igbudu, are said to be backing the new executive council.

Stakeholders have called for peace, unity, and adherence to the constitution of the Igbo Speaking Community to ensure stability. They also appealed to all parties to avoid actions that could escalate tension and to allow relevant authorities to handle all allegations in accordance with the law.

Efforts to reach Chief Sunday Udeh for his reaction to the viral video and the allegations were unsuccessful as at the time of filing this report.