Reexamination Of The Oh Afia Protest: Commending Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu’s Statesmanship And Inclusiveness In Public Service
By Ik Ogbonna
The recent protest staged by a few misguided women and youths from Ohafia Local Government Area in Umuahia in mid-February 2026 against Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, has generated significant public discourse. The demonstrators raised concerns over alleged neglect of the constituency, lack of visible developmental projects, and claims that the Senator had previously described Ohafia as an “IPOB area” during the 2023 elections — an assertion they linked to subsequent security challenges in the community. While political dissent is a legitimate feature of democracy, the manner and content of the protest — including derogatory songs and unfortunate death wishes — drew widespread condemnation for falling short of the decorum expected in Igbo cultural and political engagement.
In this regard, the timely and decisive intervention of the Udumaeze-in-Council, the apex traditional authority in Ohafia, merits profound appreciation. Following an emergency meeting, the Council dissolved the leadership of the protesting women’s group, imposed appropriate sanctions, and reaffirmed the community’s core cultural values. This action was necessitated by the fact that the protest was undertaken without the knowledge or approval of the traditional leadership, thereby breaching established customs and protocols that govern public conduct in Ohafia. They condemned the protest in appreciation of the role Sen. Kalu has played in the life of several politicians and Ohafia LGS in general which prompted the title of Ikemba of Ohafia by the entire traditional rulers in the LGA. The Council’s firm stance not only restored order but also upheld the sanctity of traditional institutions as guardians of peace, unity, and responsible representation. Such leadership exemplifies the enduring relevance of our customary governance structures in moderating contemporary political tensions.
Equally commendable is the exemplary statesmanship displayed by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu in the wake of the crisis. Rather than allow the incident to fester or deepen divisions, the Senator chose the higher path of reconciliation and forgiveness. A notable demonstration of this maturity was his recent reception of Hon. Chidiebere Uwagwu, a prominent APC chieftain from Ohafia and former commissioner, who paid him a courtesy visit to express confidence in the party’s future and to hail the growing unity within the Abia APC ahead of the 2027 elections. By openly embracing individuals who had been part of the opposition during the crisis, Senator Kalu has once again proven that true leadership transcends personal grievances and prioritises the collective interest of Abia North and the Igbo nation.
This gesture of forgiveness and inclusivity reinforces Senator Kalu’s long-standing reputation as a bridge-builder and a statesman committed to peaceful political coexistence. It sends a powerful message that political differences, no matter how sharply expressed, should not be allowed to fracture community bonds or derail the development agenda.
As Ohafia and Abia North look ahead, the resolution of this episode through traditional wisdom and magnanimous leadership offers a worthy model for all. It is our hope that all stakeholders will draw the right lessons, close ranks, and channel their energies towards the genuine development and progress of our people.
Long live the Udumaeze-in-Council.
Long live the peace and unity of Ohafia and Abia North.
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Ik Ogbonna, PhD is an Owerri based Media and PR Consultant