By: Ike Philip Abiagom
In a significant move aimed at strengthening peace, unity, and development in Oshimili North Local Government Area, renowned community leader and philanthropist, Pastor Idowu Chukwudi Okeze (Ukpe Igbuzo), has successfully brokered peace between the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Chief (Hon.) Innocent Esewezie, and five councillors who had been involved in a prolonged dispute with the council leadership.
Pastor Okeze paid a visit to the council chairman at his residence in Igbuzo as part of ongoing efforts to promote harmony within the local government and create a conducive atmosphere for governance and development.
The reconciliation meeting brought together Chief Esewezie and the five councillors who had previously been at loggerheads with the chairman and had taken legal action against him over legislative matters affecting the council.
Speaking during the meeting, Pastor Okeze emphasized the importance of peace, forgiveness, and collaboration among elected officials, noting that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding. He urged both parties to put aside their differences and work together in the interest of the people of Oshimili North, stressing that political disagreements should never be allowed to hinder progress and the delivery of democratic dividends.
As leaders entrusted with the welfare of the people, it is important that we embrace peace and work as one family. The people of Oshimili North deserve development, and that can only be achieved when there is harmony among stakeholders, Pastor Okeze stated.
Responding, Chief Esewezie expressed appreciation to Pastor Okeze for his timely intervention and commitment to peace-building within the local government area. He assured those present that he was ready to work harmoniously with the councillors and other stakeholders to advance the development of Oshimili North.
The council chairman pledged to foster a cordial working relationship with the legislative arm of the council, emphasizing that unity would enhance effective governance and accelerate the delivery of projects and services to the people.
The reconciled councillors also welcomed the peace initiative and expressed their readiness to work collectively with the chairman for the progress of the local government.
The meeting was attended by several political leaders and stakeholders, including the Oshimili North APC Chairman, Hon. Austin Nnabuife; JP (Political) Ojeagbue; APC chieftain, Chief Kizito Ijeh; the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Austin Eloka Ajufo; Chief Lucky Abuah (Bullet Empire); Chief Austin Ndinwa, Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Youth Mobilisation; and the five councillors involved in the reconciliation process.
Speaking after the meeting, Chief Kizito Ijeh described Pastor Okeze’s intervention as a major step toward restoring stability and fostering a stronger working relationship within the Oshimili North Local Government Council. He noted that the reconciliation would promote effective governance, strengthen political unity, and accelerate grassroots development across the local government area.
Observers believe the peace initiative marks a new chapter for Oshimili North, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the renewed spirit of cooperation among council leaders will translate into improved service delivery and greater developmental strides for the people.