The Southeast Resilience and Support Group (SERSuG) has described as troubling the rising concerns over a leadership dispute within the Enugu chapter of the City Boy Movement.
The development has sparked debate across the South-East, with stakeholders warning that the situation could deepen political divisions if not quickly resolved.
In a statement released by its Coordinator, Prince Chris Azor, the group alleged an attempt by certain interests within the movement to introduce a parallel woman leader in Enugu State despite the existing appointment of Ambassador Mrs. Amaka Nweke by the national leadership of the movement.
It warned that any effort to override a nationally recognised appointment through local manoeuvres risks undermining discipline within the organisation and weakening its credibility.
“The national leadership of the City Boy Movement had already appointed Ambassador Nweke as the Woman Leader for the Enugu chapter. Her appointment was widely accepted by members familiar with her long-standing contributions to grassroots mobilisation and political organisation in the state.
“Attempts to introduce another woman leader within the same structure could create unnecessary internal tension and send negative signals about the movement’s commitment to fairness and institutional order.
Ambassador Nweke, the statement noted, is widely respected for her work in community development, women advocacy and civic mobilisation.
“Having lived and worked in Enugu State for more than three decades, she is said to have built strong networks across different communities through her involvement in empowerment programmes and grassroots initiatives.
SERSuG warned that efforts to sideline such a recognised appointment could raise questions about vested interests and possible nepotistic motivations among some actors within the state structure of the movement.
Organizational discipline
The group stressed that credible political organisations thrive on discipline, respect for hierarchy and adherence to decisions made by their national leadership.
“Attempts by individuals within a state chapter to override such decisions for personal or factional advantage could weaken the organisation and create avoidable conflicts,” the statement said.
“A parallel leadership structure where a legitimate appointment already exists may create perceptions of discrimination, favouritism and political manipulation.
The group described Enugu as a political and cultural hub for the Igbo nation having for decades served as a meeting point for people from across the region.
“Citizens from Anambra, Imo, Abia and Ebonyi, as well as Igbo communities in Delta, Rivers, Edo, Benue and Kogi states, have long lived and worked in the state.
“Political actors operating within Enugu must remain sensitive to actions capable of creating unnecessary friction among communities that have traditionally coexisted peacefully.
The group noted that the South-East has often spoken with one voice in raising concerns about marginalisation within the Nigerian federation.
“However, internal rivalries overshadow these values, the consequences can extend beyond individual organisations to affect the broader unity of the Igbo nation.
The group called on the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and respected Igbo elders and nationalist voices to wade into the matter to prevent its escalation into a wider political confrontation.
“We appeal to Governor of Enugu State, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, alongside other South-East governors, to quietly engage relevant stakeholders and encourage a peaceful and principled resolution.
“The Enugu State Government has consistently projected an image of inclusive governance and political stability, adding that such an atmosphere should not be undermined by disputes within political organisations operating in the state.
Clearer coordination by APC
“At the national level, attention has also turned to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with calls for the party to provide clearer coordination for support groups associated with its political structures.
“Political analysts believe the APC, as the party controlling the federal government, has a responsibility to ensure that groups operating within its broader political ecosystem conduct their activities with discipline and respect for established leadership structures.
“Failure to do so, they warn, could create the impression of disorganisation at a time when the country is gradually approaching another cycle of national elections.
SERSuG emphasised that political organisations that allow internal divisions to persist often find themselves weakened at critical moments.
“Respect for legitimate appointments and institutional processes, it said, remains essential for preserving unity and credibility.
“At a time when the South-East must focus on strengthening its political voice and advancing its development aspirations, avoidable disputes only distract from the broader interests of the region,” the statement said.
“Only through fairness, mutual respect and collective responsibility can the region maintain the solidarity needed to play its rightful role in Nigeria’s political landscape.
