Port Harcourt, Rivers State, April 1, 2025 – Chijioke Ihunwo, the former Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, has issued a stern ultimatum to the immediate past Head of Service (HOS) of the state, Dr. George Nwaeke. Ihunwo is demanding an unreserved apology for accusations made by Nwaeke implicating him in the alleged bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Failure to comply, Ihunwo warns, will result in legal action.
Accusations and Rebuttals
Nwaeke, in a widely circulated video recorded in Abuja, alleged that the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara provided a bag of money to his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, who was allegedly accompanied by Ihunwo and two others, for the purpose of carrying out the bombing.
Both Governor Fubara and Edison Ehie have vehemently denied these allegations, dismissing them as false, misleading, and motivated by monetary compromise on Nwaeke's part.
Ihunwo's Legal Response
Through his lawyer, Obidinma C. Obidinma, Ihunwo has formally addressed the accusations in a letter dated Tuesday. The letter asserts that Nwaeke's "misleading and defamatory claims," aired on national television and published in newspapers, have caused significant damage to Ihunwo's reputation among Nigerians.
Demand for Apology
The letter demands that Nwaeke publish an unreserved apology within 48 hours on national television and in three national newspapers. Ihunwo contends that "a reputation once damaged cannot be assuaged" and insists on public retraction of the allegations.
History of Public Service
The letter also emphasizes Ihunwo's previous roles and accomplishments, highlighting his unblemished record as the former State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria Rivers State Chapter for five years, followed by his appointment as Caretaker Committee Chairman and subsequent election as the substantive Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council.
Legal Threat
Ihunwo's legal counsel warns that failure to meet the apology demand within the specified timeframe will compel them to "set the arsenal of law in motion" and subject Nwaeke to the consequences of his actions. The situation underscores the heightened political tensions in Rivers State and the potential for further legal battles.