A simmering dispute over oil revenue has thrown the Achi Mbieri community in Imo State into turmoil, with stakeholders demanding transparency and accusing their leadership of mismanaging funds allegedly paid by Seplat Energy. The Achi Stakeholders Forum alleges that President-General Victor Iwuagwu disbursed oil revenue to villages without the executive council’s knowledge or supervision, sparking accusations of inequitable distribution and secrecy.
Community Financial Secretary Richard Durunna distanced himself from the transactions, claiming he was unaware of any payments until villagers confirmed receiving money directly from Iwuagwu. Durunna accused Iwuagwu of running the community “unilaterally” and revealed the PG claimed he acted on “instructions from his late mother in a dream” when pressed on the sharing formula. The community has issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Iwuagwu to convene an emergency meeting and explain his financial dealings.
The controversy highlights broader concerns about oil revenue management at the grassroots level, with calls for a forensic investigation and state intervention growing. Traditional Prime Minister Nzeh Adolphus Nnadi urged the Imo State Government to intervene, while youth leader Chigazu Ohamadike appealed for calm and peaceful resolution. The community awaits Iwuagwu’s response to the ultimatum.
