By Chief Chris Okechukwu Nwando
The return of peace to the Ideato South Local Government Legislative Council marks a profound moment in the history of local governance — a testament to the power of dialogue, the wisdom of leadership, and the enduring spirit of unity that defines the people of Ideato South.
For a brief period, the 7th Assembly of the Ideato South Legislative Council faced internal misunderstandings capable of threatening the stability and progress of the Local Government. But thanks to the timely and coordinated intervention of visionary leaders, that moment of uncertainty has now given way to calm, understanding, and renewed focus.
At the center of this success story stands the Honourable Commissioner for Rural Development and Economic Empowerment, Hon. Chief Ifeanyi D. Oruh (JP) — a man whose experience, maturity, and leadership acumen brought the crisis to a peaceful resolution. Upon receiving reports of the brewing crisis, the Honourable Commissioner acted swiftly, summoning the councillors of Ideato South and engaging all sides with fairness and fatherly composure.
His effort, guided by the ideals of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma (CON), reflected the Shared Prosperity Government’s commitment to peace, stability, and grassroots democracy.
In a joint effort, the Honourable Commissioner received the unwavering support of the Executive Chairman of Ideato South, Hon. Chief Okechukwu Kenneth Okwara (Ugogbuzuo Ochakee) — a man whose name has become synonymous with peace, balance, and leadership excellence. Chief Okwara’s temperament and approach to governance embody humility and uncommon wisdom. His voice of moderation and his genuine desire to see Ideato South united again played a decisive role in calming nerves and guiding the process of reconciliation.
Indeed, Chief Okechukwu Okwara (Ugogbuzuo Ochakee) is not just a leader; he is a solution in himself — a man who understands that leadership is service, and service is sacrifice. His handling of the matter was a perfect example of emotional intelligence and political sagacity. It is no exaggeration to say that if ears that listen had listened to his earlier counsel, the episode of misunderstanding that shook the council would never have arisen. But true to his character, Ugogbuzuo Ochakee did not apportion blame; instead, he stretched out a hand of peace, proving once again that greatness lies in calmness and forgiveness.
As the Special Adviser on Conflict Resolution, Research, and Documentation to the Executive Chairman, I, Chief Chris Okechukwu Nwando, PhD, JP, also felt deeply concerned about the situation.* Conflict, in whatever form, erodes progress and disturbs the peace that sustains governance. Guided by my office and driven by my passion for harmony, I personally reached out to several parties involved in the dispute. Through numerous phone calls, quiet mediation, and heartfelt appeals, I urged the warring sides to make sacrifices for the greater good — to concede a little of their personal stands for the sake of peace.
For I have always believed that peace gives inner joy; it enriches the heart, unites the people, and brings divine blessings to a community. The joy of seeing calm return to Ideato South Legislative Council is one that words can hardly describe. It proves that when communication lines remain open and the right spirit guides leadership, every conflict can find a peaceful end.
The combined efforts of the Honourable Commissioner, the Executive Chairman, my office, and other stakeholders yielded the desired result — a truce that culminated in the convening of an extraordinary emergency sitting of the 7th Legislative Assembly on 31st October 2025. During that session, a new leadership structure was peacefully elected and sworn in, marking a new dawn for the Legislative Council.
Those who emerged from that historic sitting include Rt. Hon. Comrade Onyenakazi Hyacinth, councillor of Umuchima Ward, as Leader; Rt. Hon. Cyprian Obiagwu, councillor of Isiekenesi Ward 1, as Deputy Leader; Rt. Hon. Chief Ikebundu Johnbosco, councillor of Umuakam Umuago Ward, as Majority Leader; and Hon. Egbule Stanley, councillor of Ogboko Ward 2, as Chief Whip. Their election represents the triumph of order over chaos and the reaffirmation of democracy at the grassroots.
The Honourable Commissioner, Chief Ifeanyi Oruh, has since expressed deep gratitude to the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, whose Shared Prosperity Government continues to promote peace, inclusiveness, and good governance. He also thanked Chief Ugogbuzuo Ochakee for his fatherly support, the critical leaders and stakeholders for their unity of purpose, and all political appointees and party leaders who lent their voices to peace.
It is also fitting at this point to once again appreciate the wisdom of His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma, whose careful selection of leaders across Imo State reflects his mastery of human management and understanding of the state’s political dynamics. His Excellency’s appointments — from the state level to the local government structure — have continued to yield fruits of stability, trust, and effectiveness. Ideato South stands today as a reflection of that visionary leadership.
The recent peace achieved is not just the absence of crisis; it is the rebirth of confidence, cooperation, and renewed energy for service delivery. The Legislative Council can now focus on its constitutional responsibilities with unity of purpose, strengthened by the lessons of the past and inspired by the peace of the present.
Let this success be a lesson and a model to other councils across Imo State: that through dialogue, empathy, and sincere leadership, peace is always possible.
May the peace now restored in Ideato South endure and inspire even greater heights of development. And may all those who played active roles in this process — from Chief Ifeanyi Oruh, to Chief Okechukwu Okwara (Ugogbuzuo Ochakee), to every stakeholder who chose peace over division — continue to enjoy divine wisdom, inner joy, and the respect of their people.
Chief Chris Okechukwu Nwando, PhD, JP
Special Adviser on Conflict Resolution, Research and Documentation Office of the Executive Chairman, Ideato South Local Government Area Imo State, Nigeria
