The Presidents-General (PGs) of communities in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State have declared unwavering support for His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah and the Aninri Council Chairman, Hon. Ugochukwu Nwanjoku, amid recent protests in the area, even as they demand a comprehensive and transparent investigation into alleged misconduct by the Enugu State SWAT unit.

Addressing journalists at a press conference on behalf of the PGs, the Coordinating PG of Aninri, Comrade Pius Ani, said the gathering was aimed at reaffirming confidence in the governor’s leadership and clarifying the collective position of Aninri communities on the unfolding political and security developments.

Protest Over Chairmanship: “Grievances Must Follow Due Process”

Ani disclosed that Governor Mbah had earlier convened a stakeholders’ meeting cutting across local governments in the state, where it was agreed that political grievances should be addressed through constitutional and lawful channels rather than protests capable of igniting crisis.

According to him, the governor underscored his commitment to peaceful coexistence in Aninri and made it clear that any qualified individual is free to contest the council chairmanship through due democratic process.

“The governor has demonstrated that he is a leader for all. He encouraged dialogue, not disorder. Anyone with political ambition should pursue it lawfully,” Ani stated.

The PGs noted that their stance builds on a prior vote of confidence passed on the governor, describing his administration as transformative and development-driven.

They commended what they described as unprecedented infrastructural strides across Enugu State, with Ani referencing the governor’s claim of over 2,000 ongoing and completed projects statewide.

“Many rural communities are witnessing tangible development for the first time. Roads, schools, health facilities, and electrification projects are changing lives. We urge the governor to sustain the momentum and complete all ongoing projects,” he added.

Confidence in Council Leadership

The PGs also reaffirmed their support for Council Chairman Nwanjoku, insisting that their vote of confidence in him was deliberate and remains firm.

They highlighted key projects under the current council administration, including the reconnection of several communities to the national grid, construction of a new legislative and administrative secretariat, and a 50-room hospital said to be nearing completion.

They appealed to Governor Mbah to continue backing the council chairman to ensure seamless execution and delivery of people-oriented projects in Aninri.

SWAT Allegations Spark Outrage

Beyond politics, the PGs raised serious security concerns, accusing operatives of the Enugu State SWAT unit of alleged excesses in the area.

Ani alleged that in 2025, SWAT operatives led by CSP Ndubuisi Anosike invaded Oduma Achara Community, carting away vehicles, household appliances, cash, livestock, and other valuables. He further claimed that community members later received calls allegedly demanding money before some items were returned.

According to him, the matter was reported to the Inspector-General of Police through the Force Public Relations Office in Abuja and to the Senate, and is currently under review.

More troubling, the PGs raised alarm over the death of Mr. Donatus Ugorji, described as a chief priest from Ohaofia Ndumeze Kingdom, who allegedly died in police custody after being taken by SWAT operatives.

They demanded a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, insisting that medical findings and accountability measures must be made public.

“This is not about politics; it is about justice and human dignity. We want the truth. We want accountability,” Ani declared.

He added that community leaders are actively working to calm tensions and prevent breakdown of law and order while seeking justice through lawful means.

Call for Unity and Peace

Also speaking, Comrade Onyeabor Chukwu Christian Azubuike, PG of Amagu Oduma Autonomous Community, described the protest against the council chairman as unjustified and avoidable.

He urged aggrieved individuals to explore constitutional procedures in resolving disputes, noting that Governor Mbah recently held an interactive engagement session with political and business stakeholders in Aninri, providing a platform for open dialogue.

Azubuike called on residents to remain calm and allow the governor to address the concerns in the interest of peace, unity, and sustained development.

“We must not allow internal disagreements to derail the progress already achieved. Aninri remains united and hopeful for greater development,” he said.

A Community at a Crossroads

As Aninri navigates political tensions and security concerns, the PGs’ declaration signals a strong endorsement of the current state and local leadership, while simultaneously amplifying calls for justice and institutional accountability.

With development projects underway and investigations pending, stakeholders say the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether dialogue, due process, and transparency will prevail in preserving peace and strengthening public trust in the area.