By SCM Reporter I Friday, Sept 25, 2026
OWERRI — Outrage and widespread condemnation have greeted the reported actions of Hon. Paschal Okoro, popularly known as Hon. Ajangwo, the Councillor representing Avu/Oforola Ward 1 and Chief Whip of the Owerri West Legislative Council under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State. Ajangwo allegedly tore down opposition political party banners at the strategic Avu Junction, asserting that no opposition political movement would be permitted within his domain.
According to reports circulating online and corroborated by eyewitness accounts at Avu Junction in Owerri West Local Government Area, the grassroots politician was seen physically dismantling promotional posters and banners belonging to rival political parties. While engaging in the act, Hon. Ajangwo reportedly declared: “No other political party should operate in Avu.”
The development has triggered heavy criticism across Imo State and beyond, with constitutional lawyers, civil society groups, and political commentators describing the statement and action as a dangerous assault on Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
Nigeria’s political framework is grounded in a multiparty democratic arrangement recognized by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). Under Section 40 of the Constitution, every citizen is guaranteed the fundamental right to freedom of association and assembly, including the right to belong to or support any political party of their choice.
Reacting to the incident, political analyst and constitutional rights advocate, Dr. Chinedu Eke, noted that local council officials have no legal authority to restrict political activities within their communities or declare any ward an exclusive zone for a single political party.
”Nigeria is a constitutional multiparty democracy. No councillor, chairman, or local political figure owns a junction, a ward, or the right of other political parties to exist and campaign freely. Declaring a whole community off-limits to opposition parties is a direct violation of electoral laws and human rights,” Eke stated.
Observers warn that such brazen political intolerance, if left unchecked by party leaders and law enforcement authorities, threatens peace and political stability ahead of upcoming elections.
Tensions surrounding campaign materials, billboards, and promotional banners have historically flared up across various local government areas in Imo State. Ahead of political cycles, grassroots leaders frequently clash over territory, poster placements, and community mobilization.
Hon. Paschal Okoro (Ajangwo), who serves as the Chief Whip of the Owerri West Legislative Council, has been a key campaigner for the APC within Avu/Oforola Ward 1. However, critics point out that arrogance and oppressive political conduct often backfire, alienating voters and sowing seeds of resentment among the electorate.
A cross-section of residents at Avu Junction expressed dismay over the incident, calling on both the APC leadership in Imo State and the Imo State Police Command to intervene swiftly to avert political clashes.
”The arrogance displayed today by political actors who think they control public space is the same fire that destroys democratic institutions tomorrow. The people will not remain silent forever when their political rights are infringed upon,” remarked a community stakeholder in Avu who pleaded for anonymity.
As public outrage grows, opposition parties in the state are calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and Governor Hope Uzodimma to call local council officials to order and ensure that all political parties enjoy a safe, competitive, and level playing field.