Princess Joy Idam Fires Back at Umahi Over Amasiri Crisis
By Comfort Otu
Princess Joy Omagha Idam, Publisher of Weekenders Magazine Online, has strongly responded to recent comments made by the Nigerian Minister of Works, Senator David Nweze Umahi concerning the ongoing crisis involving the Amasiri community.
Princess Idam described the Umahi’s remarks as “deeply disappointing and misleading,” particularly regarding the historical context of communal tensions in the area.
According to her, Amasiri and Amangwu–Edda have no history of protracted conflict. She clarified that past tensions in the area have traditionally involved Amasiri, Oso, and Okporo Ujo, warning that misrepresenting facts risks escalating tensions rather than promoting peace.
She further questioned what she described as inconsistencies in the handling of communal crises in Ebonyi State, referencing previous violent clashes between Izzi and Effium, as well as between Izzi and Ikwo, where, according to her, similar levels of force and shutdown measures were not applied.
“Leadership is measured by consistency,” she stated. “Equal protection under the law must not depend on political alignment.”
Princess Idam also addressed claims regarding the Army Training Depot located in Amasiri, insisting that the land on which the facility sits has never been in dispute. She noted that the land was mapped out during the administration of former Governor Martin Elechi, not under Senator Umahi’s tenure as governor.
She further alleged that compensation for economic trees on the land remains unpaid to the people of Amasiri.
While calling for transparency and accountability, Princess Idam urged state authorities to address reports of alleged abductions and missing persons along a federal highway in Oso, stating that petitions have been submitted without visible response.
“This is not a time for image protection,” she said. “It is a time for justice, fairness, and genuine reconciliation.”
She urged leaders to rise above political considerations and act as unifying figures for all communities in Ebonyi State.
“History will remember those who stood for justice when it mattered most,” she said.
