Ariaria Traders, Party Leaders Clash Over Alleged Plot to Reinstate Suspended Chairman

According to sources within Ariaria Ward 9 of Aba North Local Government Area, this development has triggered anxiety among traders who fear that his return could reopen old wounds and destabilise the market’s administrative structure.

Stakeholders argue that the proposed reinstatement could have far-reaching political implications, particularly in Ariaria Ward 9 and Aba North as a whole, ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. They expressed concern that, if implemented, the move might negatively impact public confidence in the current administration.

Sources indicate that Mr Ozoekwe is still serving an indefinite suspension imposed on him in August 2023 by the Labour Party Ariaria Ward 9 Chapter, just two months after he was appointed chairman in June 2023. The suspension letter reportedly cited allegations of anti-party activities, misrepresentation of party ideals, disobedience to party leadership, and actions deemed inconsistent with party principles.

Among the reasons listed in the suspension were claims that he sidelined Labour Party faithful in the market’s leadership structure, allegedly replacing them with members perceived to be loyal to the opposition, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Other accusations included inviting police authorities against party members, collecting various sums of money from sub-union members under contentious circumstances, and allegedly using the names of government officials to intimidate party loyalists. Party insiders maintain that Mr Ozoekwe has neither publicly apologised nor taken steps towards reconciliation with ward leadership since the suspension.

Sources within the market also alleged that Mr Ozoekwe has been seen at meetings linked to the CityBoy Movement, described as a political structure associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC). Although these claims could not be independently verified at the time of this report, they have further fueled concerns among Labour Party members within the area. A source close to ward leadership reportedly indicated that he had allegedly suggested he might defect to the APC if not reinstated, a claim that has intensified debates within party circles.

This is not the first time Mr Ozoekwe’s leadership has come under scrutiny. In August 2023, stakeholders and patrons of Ariaria International Market reportedly petitioned government authorities, including the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce and members of the Abia State House of Assembly, expressing dissatisfaction with his leadership style. The petition allegedly accused him of high-handedness, imposing illegal and unapproved levies, dictatorial tendencies, and actions perceived as prioritising personal interests over collective welfare. The stakeholders urged relevant authorities to intervene to prevent what they described as an impending crisis within the market.

In the same year, concerned executives appointed alongside him reportedly passed a vote of no confidence, citing his nonchalant attitude towards official communications and internal administrative processes. They called on the appropriate authorities to remove him to restore stability and protect the reputation of the state government within the market.

As rumours of a possible reinstatement circulate, several traders have reportedly expressed apprehension, fearing a return to what they describe as a turbulent period in the market’s administration. Some traders, speaking anonymously, warned that confidence in the leadership structure could be affected if the alleged plan proceeds, emphasising that stability in Ariaria International Market is vital for sustaining economic activity in Aba, widely regarded as the commercial hub of Abia State.

Political analysts and stakeholders within Aba North have called for caution, advising that any decision regarding market leadership should consider party discipline, administrative stability, and the broader political climate.

Efforts to obtain official confirmation regarding any reinstatement plan were unsuccessful at the time of this report. However, party sources insist that Mr Ozoekwe remains under suspension and has not been formally recalled by the ward chapter. As events unfold, stakeholders say they will continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasising the need for transparent, accountable, and inclusive leadership within Ariaria International Market, one of the largest trading hubs in West Africa.