Residents of Ndiolumbe Autonomous Community in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of Abia State have called on the state government to examine lingering leadership and security challenges in the area, following persistent complaints about public safety and community order.
Speaking in an interview, an elder of the community and Ward 5 Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Elder Otutubuike Agbara, expressed concern over what he described as a prolonged absence of effective traditional leadership in Ndiolumbe.
He said the situation, in his view, has weakened community authority structures and contributed to growing unease among residents.
Elder Agbara stated that Ndiolumbe, which is home to a busy local market (Ahia Orie), has in recent years witnessed behaviour that residents consider disruptive to peace and commerce.
He said community members have on several occasions reported suspicious activities to relevant security agencies, including the Divisional Police Command at Okpuala Ngwa, in an effort to curb insecurity and protect public infrastructure.
According to him, incidents involving vandalism of electricity facilities have repeatedly affected power supply in the community, disrupting daily life and economic activity. He said residents have expressed frustration over what they perceive as a lack of lasting solutions, despite earlier interventions by security operatives.
The community leader also appealed to the Abia State Government and the Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs to review the status of the Ndiolumbe traditional stool.
He explained that the request is driven by uncertainty and concern among residents over the prolonged absence of visible traditional leadership, which he believes is vital for community co-ordination, mediation and co-operation with government authorities.
Two other residents, who spoke on condition of anonymity, echoed the call for government attention.
They said the community needs re-assurance through an open and transparent review process that would strengthen local governance and support ongoing security efforts.
Observers note that Ndiolumbe’s situation reflects broader challenges faced by some rural communities, where leadership gaps and insecurity can combine to slow development and strain relations between residents and institutions.
Community members expressed hope that a timely response from the state government would restore confidence, improve safety and support sustainable peace in the area.
