The newly sworn-in Chairman of Onicha Local Government Area in Ebonyi State, Mr. Ikechukwu Ogbuoffia, has accused his predecessor, Mr. Chidiebere Uzor, of allegedly vandalizing and looting properties belonging to the council.
In a viral video circulating online, Ogbuoffia expressed his outrage after inspecting the severely vandalized council headquarters in Isu, as well as the ALGON office in Abakaliki. The Trumpet obtained a copy of the viral footage, where Ogbuoffia accused the former LG Chairman of leaving the offices completely bare, allegedly carting away all valuables procured with government funds.
The video showed empty offices, with critical items such as chairs, tables, television sets, refrigerators, cupboards, and important documents all missing.
“We came here to take over the offices and properties of the local government, following my swearing-in by the State Governor on September 1st, 2024. However, to our shock, the ALGON office in Abakaliki is completely stripped of all property. The same applies to the council headquarters in Isu, where everything has been looted. This is deeply unfortunate,” Ogbuoffia said in the video.
Read also: Delta State pensioners accuse ALGON of fraudulent deductions from gratuities
He further added that the matter would be reported to the State Governor, with expectations of immediate intervention and further directives.
The alleged vandalism has sparked outrage among stakeholders in the local government, who are demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of the former chairman, Mr. Chidiebere Uzor. According to Mr. Clement Ogbonna, a prominent stakeholder, the looting and destruction of government property is not only criminal but sets a dangerous precedent for other political office holders.
Ogbonna condemned the actions in strong terms, stating, “The looting of properties procured with council funds by the outgoing administration is absolutely reprehensible. Every stakeholder in Onicha LGA condemns this action entirely. There must be a thorough investigation, and those responsible must face the full weight of the law.”
However, when contacted, the former Onicha LG Chairman, Mr. Chidiebere Uzor, denied all allegations. He claimed to have handed over successfully and wondered why such accusations were surfacing just a week after his exit.
Similarly, Mr. Chijoke Agwu, the media assistant to the former chairman, declined to comment on the matter, stating that his principal was out of town but would address the allegations soon.
