Youths of Dikenafai’s community of Ideato South LGA of Imo State on Thursday 27th March 2025, came out in their numbers putting on sack clothes and ashes to show their displeasure as they reject the coronation of HRH Eze, (Engr), Uchenna Odoemena as “Ebubedike II of Dikenafai.
According to one of the youths, Chukwudi Mba, Dikenafai community used to be peaceful and beautiful but alleged that the crisis that had enveloped the community and truncated its peace and unity was the fault of the Governor, her Excellency Hope Uzodinma, and the late King, HRH Eze Festus Odoemena alongside the incumbent King, HRH. Eze (Engr). Uchenna Odoemena.
Mba also alleged that the state governor and traditional rulers conspired to steal the harmony and peace in the community.
Mba said the crisis started after the Governor asked the oil companies to start exploration in the community.
Mba added the community was gladdened by the development that it appointed Mr. Chinedu Kelechi Julius as its representative in dialogues with the government and the oil companies.
Mba disclosed thar Mr. Kelechi was chosen not only because of his vast experience in oil and gas but also because the people of Dikenafai passed a vote of confidence in him because of his leadership antecedents.
Chukwudi went further to state that the Governor and the late King rejected the community’s chosen person and selected Prince Eze (Engr). Uchenna Odoemena, the incumbent King.
Mba stated that the community also rejected the government appointee because he lacked integrity and had no experience in oil and gas ventures.
Mba disclosed that the state governor allegedly brought in a militant group, the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force (NDPVF), headed by Asari Dokunbo.
Mba alleged the group killed anyone that tried to disturb the oil companies from exploring oil in the region and most of the youths have had to flee the community to seek refuge in some other states and abroad.
A staff of an oil company in the area disclosed that work had been very slow since they started exploring oil in the region because of the incessant killings.
Stakeholders have urged the Imo State government as well as the community youths to faction out means to resolve the conflict for peace and stability in the region.
They also expressed optimism that HRH Eze (Engr). Uchenna Odoemena and the elders of the community would have a rethink and call for dialogue to include community youths to explore amicable means of settlement.
