Eziowelle Improvement Union Braces for Leadership Overhaul, Rejects Unlawful Imposition of 2020 Constitution

By Arthur Maduka

The Eziowelle Improvement Union (EIU) is embroiled in a controversy as accusations surface against its President General, Hon Barr Titus Akpudo, for allegedly holding onto power unlawfully, contrary to the 1992 EIU constitution.

In a recent press release signed by branch Chairmen and Secretaries of EIU branches in Abuja, Lagos, and Onitsha, the public was informed of the situation. The EIU Nigeria General Assembly, adhering to the 1992 constitution, has resolved to step in and address the issue. According to Article XVI sections (C) and (D) of the constitution, if general elections are not held as scheduled, the responsibility falls on the branch Chairmen and Secretaries to take over administration.

The press release, issued on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, highlights the refusal of Barr Akpudo to relinquish power after his second term as President General ended on June 30th, 2021. The branch chairmen expressed disappointment in his failure to comply with the constitution, which he was elected to uphold. They also criticized the involvement of officials who allegedly acted without proper consent.

It was revealed that Barr Akpudo served EIU for twelve years, six as Vice President General and six as President General. Additionally, during his tenure as PG, he also assumed the presidency of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions.

Consequently, the branch chairmen and secretaries have taken over the administration of EIU Nigeria to convene an emergency meeting and chart a new course for the community. They have outlined resolutions to guide the interim administration:

• Limitations on Administrative Secretary’s Authority: The Administrative Secretary of Eziowelle Improvement Union (EIU) Nigeria, Mr Francis C. Mbakwe, is no longer authorized to write or sign letters or issue directives without written instructions from the General Assembly.
• Withdrawal of Election Notices: Mr Francis C. Mbakwe is urged to immediately withdraw any previously issued notices for elections, as he cannot derive power from a vacuum.
• Respect for Government Directives: HRH Igwe Michael Ugorji Okonkwo – Etusi, the Owelle of Eziowelle, is urged to respect the directives of the Anambra State government regarding the recognition of the EIU leadership.
• Adherence to the 1992 Constitution: The branches in Abuja, Lagos, and Onitsha, which represent the majority of EIU members, only recognize the 1992 constitution and reject any other versions, including the purported 2020 constitution.
• Dispute over General Meeting: There is contention regarding the alleged general meeting held on December 19th, 2020, to adopt a new constitution, with claims that such a meeting did not occur due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Formation of Electoral Committee: The General Assembly will establish an electoral committee to oversee new elections for vacant positions within EIU Nigeria.
• Call for Unity: Other EIU branches are encouraged to join in efforts to restore the community’s integrity and ensure transparent governance.
• Appeal to Local Government Ministry: The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs is invited to cooperate with the General Assembly in restoring order to Eziowelle, in alignment with the wishes of the community members.

Efforts to reach Barr Titus Akpudo for comment were unsuccessful.

This development underscores the commitment of the EIU to uphold its constitution and ensure transparent leadership for the community.