Enugu, Nigeria – The Ozalla Youth Wing for Good Governance has issued an open letter to Dr. Eric Odo, Executive Chairman of Igbo Etiti Local Government Area , expressing outrage over the arrest and detention of Hon. Dr. Clinton Ogbonna and several youths.
According to DDM, the youths were reportedly involved in a peaceful protest earlier today, challenging the handling of local government allocations and the suspension of Hon. Val, the councillor representing Idoha Ward.
The open letter, signed by Hon. Christian Chukwudi Agbo, President of the youth group, condemned the alleged deployment of armed men to intimidate and confront protesters, describing the actions as a violation of democratic principles and citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly.
The youth leaders emphasized that the detained individuals were advocating for transparency, accountability, and fairness in governance, and that suppressing their voices undermines the values of democracy.
According to the letter, Hon. Dr. Clinton Ogbonna was reportedly shot during the confrontation, intensifying concerns over the use of force against unarmed citizens.
The group called for the immediate release of Ogbonna and other detained youths, urging the local government to establish a genuine avenue for dialogue on the issues raised, including the proper use of local government funds.
Ozalla Youth Wing further stressed that leadership should be demonstrated through listening, engagement, and tolerance, warning that intimidation of young citizens threatens both social cohesion and progress in the local government.
Civil society observers note that peaceful protests are a legitimate means for citizens to hold local authorities accountable, and any response involving force may attract national attention and legal scrutiny.
The letter concluded with a call for fairness, accountability, and respect for the voices of youths, stressing that Igbo Etiti can only advance when the concerns of its younger population are taken seriously.
Political analysts suggest that the incident may escalate tensions in the local government area if unresolved, highlighting the importance of swift, just, and transparent action by the council leadership.