Otughievwen EXCO Election: Ughelli South Chairman Denies Interference, Labels Claims False

The attention of the Office of the Executive Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government has been drawn to a publication making the rounds on social and conventional media, containing a series of unfounded allegations against the person of Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre regarding the Otughievwen Community EXCO election.

We wish to categorically state that these allegations are false, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to distort facts for selfish and ulterior motives.

For the avoidance of doubt, Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre, as Executive Chairman and Chief Security Officer of Ughelli South Local Government Area, has at all times conducted himself with the highest level of responsibility, neutrality, and commitment to peace and democratic principles.

At no point did the Chairman interfere with or attempt to manipulate the community electoral process. It is important to emphasize that community elections are internally managed by duly constituted bodies, and the role of the Local Government is strictly advisory and supportive, particularly in ensuring peace and order.

The decision to reschedule the election was taken in good faith and in the best interest of peace, following emerging concerns capable of disrupting public order. Any responsible authority faced with such tension would prioritize stability over chaos.

The attempt to portray this act of restraint and responsibility as weakness or complicity is not only misguided but intellectually dishonest.
Furthermore, security presence during the process was purely to maintain law and order and prevent escalation. Any suggestion that this reflects failure on the part of the Local Government or security agencies is baseless and shows a lack of understanding of standard security protocols.

We also reject in its entirety the narrative that the Chairman condoned any form of irregularity. Hon. Avweromre has consistently encouraged fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness, engaging all stakeholders with sincerity and without bias.

The publication in question is clearly provocative, divisive, and intended to incite unnecessary tension within the community. Such reckless commentary does not contribute to peacebuilding and should be disregarded by well-meaning members of the public.

The Office of the Executive Chairman remains committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, credible, and widely accepted resolution of the Otughievwen Community leadership process.
We urge all parties to exercise restraint, embrace dialogue, and place the collective interest of the community above personal ambitions.

Signed:
Hon. Henry Gbejimor
Personal Assistant to the Executive Chairman
Ughelli South Local Government