Umuchu, Aguata LGA – The long-standing leadership dispute between the Supreme Council of Nze na Ozo Umuchuand the faction known as the Indigenous Nze na Ozo Umuchu appears to be tipping in favor of the Supreme Council, as more members defect from the rival institution.
For over six months, Umuchu town in Aguata Local Government Area has witnessed a deepening crisis over the rightful leadership of the revered Nze na Ozo traditional institution. The feud has seen public confrontations, media exchanges, and community division.
On July 5th, 2025, HABAKLEF MEDIA captured a defining moment: Nze Kenneth Ojimba and his son, Nze Ikechukwu Ojimba, who had only recently been initiated into the Indigenous Nze na Ozo on June 30th, publicly denounced their membership. They described their initiation as a mistake and pledged allegiance to the Supreme Council of Nze na Ozo Umuchu, under the leadership of Chief Chinedu Ezeoha (Ijerenze Umuchu).
The turning point came after the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Hon. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, released an official statement affirming the Supreme Council of Nze na Ozo Umuchu as the only recognized and authentic Nze na Ozo institution in Umuchu.
According to Article 3, Section 1 of the Constitution of Traditional Nze na Ozo Umuchu, the Nze na Ozo title should exist under one unified body. Despite this, the faction led by Chief Bonaventure Mokwe has continued to operate independently, even going as far as accusing the Commissioner of bribery—a claim widely dismissed as baseless and defamatory.
In a further show of support, the Nze na Ozo Orumba na Aguata Council issued a stern warning, stating clearly that there is no room for multiple Nze na Ozo institutions in Umuchu. They warned that anyone associating with unrecognized factions is effectively “boarding a one-chance vehicle.”
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised by local residents over the involvement of the Palace Secretary, Prof. E.E. Ifejirika, who is alleged to be spearheading efforts to manipulate the community’s traditional leadership. A community member, speaking on condition of anonymity, accused Prof. Ifejirika and Prince Ifeanyi Ezechukwu of exploiting the advanced age of His Royal Highness, Igwe Ezechukwu (Okwuluora Umuchu) to circulate misleading letters and misinformation.
The same source also accused Chief Bonaventure Mokwe, the chairman of Ihite village, of politicizing his position and using it to deepen division within the community.
As momentum shifts toward the Supreme Council, many believe the crisis may soon be resolved, ushering in a new era of unity and respect for Umuchu’s cultural heritage.
