From Emmanuel Uzor, Awka
Three days after President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Anambra State on May 8, Igwe Maximus Ike Oliobi, the traditional ruler of Nimo Community in Njikoka Local Government Area, has raised concerns over hoodlums taking over the town.
Speaking to reporters at his palace on Sunday, May 11, Igwe Oliobi accused a small group of youths, sponsored by “mischievous elements”, of causing chaos, including shutting down the town’s market on Saturday in protest over the death of a youth, Ifeanyi Odibelu.
The youths allege Igwe Oliobi caused Odibelu’s arrest, leading to his death shortly after his release from police custody. The market shutdown was deemed “sacrilegious” by some supporters in their WhatsApp group.
Oliobi denied involvement, stating, “I am innocent of the allegation levelled against me,” and accused the protesters of disrupting peace due to his efforts against kidnapping, armed robbery, and land grabbing.
“These are the same people who invited unknown gunmen to occupy the bush between Nimo and Neni,” he said, claiming the group of about 30 youths has caused disunity for three years.
Oliobi urged security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, and the state’s Udo Ga Achi/Agunechemba outfits, to investigate Odibelu’s death and deploy personnel to curb tensions.
He noted his contributions, including enrolling youths in skill programmes like Innoson Manufacturing and the state’s One Youth Two Skills initiative, which they abandoned. “I was called to serve… and my 8 years on the throne have recorded a massive transformation,” he said, citing projects like the Nimo Civic Centre and scholarships for 14 students in medicine and engineering.