The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Bende Local Government Chapter, has called on the Abia State Government to investigate what it described as the alleged partisan involvement and inflammatory statements of the Traditional Ruler of Umunnato Akanu Item in Bende Local Government Area HRH Eze Innocent Mba ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a press briefing dated August 3, 2026, and signed by its Coordinator, Ukomba Hossana, and Secretary, Lawrence Maduka Ukaegbu, the youth body expressed concern and insisted that traditional rulers should remain neutral and promote peace.
According to the statement:
“Traditional rulers are naturally supposed to be non-partisan, non-aligned to any political platform, rather open to all and sundry, to guide and bless all their subjects, and candidates of all political parties without segregation, upholding the highest standard of neutrality. They are supposed to be symbols of peace and tranquillity, not agents of chaos, mischief and discord.”
The NYCN specifically referred to a viral video involving the traditional ruler of Akanu Item, His Royal Highness Eze Innocent Mba, alleging that he threatened to invoke death on any of his subjects who voted against his preferred candidate, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
According to the youth body, such conduct is inconsistent with the role of a traditional ruler.
“That in itself is an infringement on the fundamental human rights of his subjects, which is contrary to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended. That is crude, uncultured, undemocratic, and negates the tenets of royalty.”
The statement went further to make one of its strongest criticisms, stating:
“His actions and speech reveal who he is and point to the fact that he may have been enthroned in error, as he represents everything a royal father should not be.”
The council, however, urged residents of Bende not to be intimidated by political rhetoric.
“The people of Bende are peaceful. This is not the first time election will be conducted in Bende and won’t be the last. People should, as usual and as it is obtained everywhere worldwide, freely vote for candidates of their choice without fear of intimidation from any quarter.”
Calling for urgent intervention, the youth body appealed to the Abia State Government to investigate the matter.
“We therefore call on the state government to quickly investigate this matter and take decisive actions to forestall a breakdown of law and order in Bende Local Government Area.”
The NYCN concluded by urging all political actors, traditional institutions, and stakeholders to uphold democratic values, preserve peace, and ensure that the 2027 elections in Bende are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful atmosphere.
