A coalition of non-indigenes residing in Umuahia, Abia State, has raised alarm over alleged harassment and ethnic profiling by Promise Nwokocha, a media aide to the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Obinna Aguocha.
Addressing journalists on behalf of the group at a press briefing on Monday in Umuahia, the Youth President of Ebonyi indigenes in Abia State, Comrade Emmanuel Udume, alleged that Nwokocha has been making social media posts targeting persons working with a former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji. One of those affected was named as Ikechukwu Kelvin Okorie.
According to Comrade Udume, the development stems from the unfolding political contest in the constituency, where Hon. Aguocha is seeking a return to the House of Representatives while Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji is also said to be interested in the same seat.
The leaders of various non-indigene communities in Abia described the development as disturbing and capable of threatening peaceful coexistence.
Similarly, Mr. Silas G. Sanda from Adamawa State, who identified himself as a leader of Ebonyi indigenes in Umuahia, said Kelvin Ikechukwu was born, schooled and raised in Abia and should not be profiled as an outsider.
“Kelvin Ikechukwu is a son of Ebonyi State but he was born here in Abia, schooled here, grew up here. By the ambit of the law, he is also an indigene. He has a right to do whatever he is doing as far as it is within the law. We say no to this harassment,” he said.
He alleged that the posts were circulated on social media, adding that the matter would be formally reported to security agencies.
“We must report it to security agencies. Life is very important. We have families, we have businesses here. Government and security agencies should call him to order,” Sanda added.
Also speaking, Prince Olaitan Adekoya, a Yoruba community leader who said he was born and brought up in Abia, said non-indigenes have contributed to the growth of the state and should not be intimidated.
“We have been together for many years in Abia. So far they are harassing non-indigenes, they are harassing everybody. One Nigeria means we should live in peace. It is not good for somebody to go online profiling non-indigenes,” he said.
On his part, Mr. Igwilo Patrick Chimobi, who identified himself as youth president of Imo State indigenes resident in Abia and former Secretary of Ohuhu clan, said asking questions about representation should not attract profiling.
“We are constituents. Asking for accountability of how you have represented us is not bad. We want peace to continue. Governor Alex Otti has been doing well to redefine Abia, we want that peace sustained,” he said.
A screenshot of the post by Promise Nwokocha shared with newsmen confirmed the position of the group, showing where he allegedly questioned Kelvin Ikechukwu’s right to criticize Hon. Aguocha on the grounds of his state of origin and asked him to return to his state.
As of the time of filing this report, Hon. Obinna Aguocha and his aide, Promise Nwokocha, had not responded to the allegations. Efforts to get their reaction were ongoing.
The non-indigene coalition, however, called on the Abia State Government, the Abia State Police Command and other security agencies to look into the matter and ensure the safety and peaceful coexistence of all residents regardless of state of origin.
