Umuchu Leadership Keeps Mum Over Mayor vs Onwa Battle For Aguata Federal House Seat 

KINGSLEY EBERE

The leadership of Umuchu community in Aguata Local Government Area has come under criticism for allegedly keeping mum over the escalating political contest for the Aguata Federal Constituency seat between Dr. Chibueze Ofubuike, popularly known as Mayor and Chief Johnbosco Onunkwo, also known as Onwa

According to community sources, the leadership, led by Hon. Ifeanyi Emegwa, was initially said to have identified with Mayor and openly campaigned for him ahead of the 2027 elections. The situation, however, changed when Onwa, regarded in political circles as a “big masquerade,” declared interest in the same position.

Insiders say the Umuchu leadership is now in a dilemma and has failed to take a clear position. The reason, according to sources, is that key members of the leadership have in the past benefited from Onwa and are therefore, unwilling to make demands of him.

“The leadership led by Hon Ifeanyi Emegwa started with Mayor, but now that Onwa has entered the race, they have kept quiet,” a community stakeholder who pleaded anonymity told our correspondent.

“They cannot ask Onwa to step down for Mayor because they have benefited from him in the past. That is why people say the leadership is keeping mum instead of providing direction.”

The battle has further divided Umuchu into political blocks. Sources said the community is now split into Ihite Amanasaa and Okpu na Achalla. While Onwa holds sway in Okpu na Achalla Mayor has partial control of Ihite leaving Amanasaa as the major battleground.

Political observers warn that the division may cost Umuchu the seat. “The biggest beneficiaries of this crisis are waiting on the sidelines. NDC has a strong candidate from neighboring Achina and ADC also has a candidate from Uga. If Umuchu continues to fight itself, those two will benefit,” a chieftain said.

The development has sparked debate within Umuchu and across Aguata, with many residents expressing disappointment that the community leadership has failed to provide guidance at a critical time.

Political observers noted that the contest for the Aguata Federal House seat is already generating tension, and communities are expected to present a united front. But in Umuchu, the inability of the leadership to mediate or take a clear position is seen as weakening the community’s bargaining power.

Efforts to reach Hon. Ifeanyi Emegwa for comments proved abortive as his phone number was not available as at press time.

Both Mayor and Onwa are prominent sons of Aguata and are expected to contest for the APGA and APC tickets respectively ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As the battle intensifies, many Umuchu indigenes are calling on their leaders to rise above personal interests and provide neutral guidance that will protect the image and unity of the community.