In response to widespread allegations circulating in various media outlets regarding sand mining activities involving the traditional ruler of Nanka, Igwe Godwin Ezeilo, and the community’s President General, Canon Ifeanyichukwu Ezeike, the Concerned Citizens of Nanka have vehemently denied these claims, labeling them as baseless and unfounded.
During a press tour organized by ABS News, the group showcased the area in question to refute the allegations. Former Chairman of Amako Village, Chief Emmanuel Chinedu-Nwofor, asserted that there is no evidence to support the accusations, emphasizing that neither the traditional ruler nor the president general has engaged in any sand mining activities in Amako Village. He further pointed out the absence of any tippers or trucks accessing the purported mining site in the past five to ten years.
Chief Chinedu-Nwofor expressed bewilderment at the motives behind the allegations, attributing them to a group led by Obinna Iloh, who he claimed had previously withdrawn from the Nanka community to establish a parallel government in pursuit of autonomous status. This move, he asserted, contributed to existing tensions within Amako Village.
The former chairman revealed that the Concerned Citizens of Nanka had petitioned the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Community Affairs, Hon. TonnyCollins Nwabunwanne, leading to an agreement for the formation of a caretaker committee to manage village affairs. He urged Hon. Nwabunwanne to promptly inaugurate the committee to restore order in Amako Village.
Mr. Ejike Nwofor, Special Assistant to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Strategy, Execution, and Evaluation and a native of Amako Village, denounced the accusations as the work of mischief-makers. He affirmed that neither Igwe Ezeilo nor Canon Ezeike had been involved in any sand mining activities, urging those spreading rumors to desist from causing unrest in Nanka.
Similarly, Mr. Chukwujekwu Nwankwo, also from Amako Village, expressed unwavering support for Igwe Ezeilo, urging detractors to halt their smear campaign. He cautioned that such actions only serve to destabilize the community, emphasizing the need for unity and cooperation.
ABS News noted that the disputed area serves as the boundary between Nanka and Oko communities in Orumba North Local Government Area, further complicating the situation.
