By Isaac Mission
Elders and other prominent members of Ugwunta Community in Ovim, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, have rejected reports suggesting that the community is facing a crisis or internal disunity.
The stakeholders, under the umbrella of the Ugwunta Development Union (UDU), described the reports as misleading and insisted that the community remains peaceful, united and focused on development.
The clarification followed disagreements among some community members over decisions concerning the future administration and development of Ugwunta. Those opposed to the decisions reportedly formed a separate group and subsequently published claims alleging that the community was experiencing a crisis.
However, the UDU said the publication did not reflect the actual situation in the community.
In a statement, the union explained that members of Ugwunta held a General Assembly in their hometown on August 22, 2026, with substantial participation from stakeholders.
According to the group, the meeting was conducted peacefully, with participants discussing issues relating to the development, welfare and unity of the community.
The Chairman of the Ugwunta Development Union, backed by the Oha Ano Ugwunta, Mazi Uzodinma Onwuchekwa, also maintained that there was no crisis in the community.
He said Ugwunta remained an organised and united community whose affairs were being managed through its recognised leadership institutions.
The chairman urged members of the public, government agencies, political stakeholders and development partners to disregard reports portraying the community as being divided or disorderly.
The union acknowledged that disagreements could arise among members of any community but stressed that such differences should be addressed through established traditional, constitutional and community leadership structures.
The UDU reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and promoting the progress and development of Ugwunta.