Political tensions appear to be rising in Enugu South Urban as residents, party faithful, and stakeholders openly reject what they describe as attempts to impose political candidates on the people without proper consultation or democratic consent.
In a strongly worded statement circulating within the community, concerned stakeholders expressed total opposition to any form of political imposition, insisting that leadership must emerge from the collective will of the people rather than decisions allegedly influenced by a few powerful individuals behind closed doors.
According to the statement, democracy should remain a system built on fairness, consultation, inclusiveness, and respect for the people’s choice, not one controlled by political interests seeking to determine the future of the people without broad acceptance.
The statement specifically rejected the alleged endorsement of Caleb Onyema Ani for a second term as Local Government Chairman, with residents claiming that he no longer has meaningful connection or touch with the grassroots people of Enugu South Urban.
The stakeholders further criticized what they described as attempts by former Governor of old Anambra State, Chief Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, to influence political outcomes in the area against the wishes and expectations of the people.
According to the group, the era of political entitlement, intimidation, and candidate imposition is over, emphasizing that Enugu South Urban cannot be treated as a private political estate where leaders are selected without the consent and support of the electorate.
Residents expressed frustration over what they described as recycled political control disguised as leadership, insisting that no individual, regardless of influence or status, should singlehandedly determine the political destiny of the people.
The stakeholders passionately appealed to the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, to listen carefully to the voice of the people and reject any endorsement or arrangement that does not reflect the true wishes of party faithful and residents of Enugu South Urban.
They maintained that the people remain strongly loyal and supportive of Governor Mbah’s administration and leadership vision, stressing that their appeal is rooted in their confidence in the governor’s commitment to fairness, justice, and democratic principles.
“The people are with the Governor, and the Governor should listen to the people,” the statement emphasized.
The group urged Governor Mbah to protect the integrity of the political process by ensuring that leadership positions are determined through transparency, consultation, and the genuine support of the people rather than personal political interests.
Describing the issue as one that goes beyond politics, the stakeholders stated that it concerns justice, fairness, respect for the people, and the protection of democracy itself.
They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity, and democratic participation while expressing confidence that Governor Mbah will take the necessary steps to preserve harmony, strengthen internal democracy, and protect the future of the party in Enugu South Urban.
