The Mayor of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Chief Hon. Smart Iheoma, has debunked claims of any dispute with the Abia State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), stating categorically that he has no problem with the Union but with a specific individual allegedly being used by political opponents to tarnish his image.
Mayor Iheoma made this known when a select group of journalists visited his office at the Umuahia North Headquarters.
According to the Mayor, the issue originated from a misunderstanding involving a reporter who allegedly called him derogatory names such as a “drunkard” and a “tout.” He emphasized that the matter was personal and not a conflict with the NUJ as an institution. He disclosed that legal action has already been initiated through his lawyers.
Giving context to the incident, the Mayor explained:
“It happened on a Sanitation Day. After our routine inspection, we went to the High Court Umuahia for a media briefing. The Commissioner for Environment spoke, followed by the Governor’s Special Adviser. When it was my turn, they ignored me. I called for an interview, but it seemed like a coordinated act—they all came after me.
I did not insult anyone. All I said was that I would report the situation to the Governor’s protocol office to prevent similar occurrences during government events.”
Mayor Iheoma added that the reporter at the center of the controversy was not even physically present at the event but went online to publish what he termed falsehoods.
“He was not there, yet he posted that I insulted the press. This is pure blackmail, and I know where it’s coming from. That individual is a known PDP loyalist. He is using his position to incite others against me. I have never had issues with media professionals without fulfilling my own obligations. I am confident that justice will prevail,” the Mayor stated.
He reiterated that his grievances are with the individual reporter and not the NUJ, despite the said reporter reportedly serving as the Chairman of the Union in the state.
Speaking on his achievements since assuming office, Chief Iheoma highlighted several milestones:
• Establishment of a poultry farm within the LGA Headquarters.
• Construction of a functional canteen at the Secretariat.
• Restoration of power supply in the Local Government Secretariat.
• A comprehensive clean-up exercise that has given the Secretariat a facelift.
In the area of human capacity development, he noted:
“We recently concluded a three-day ICT training program for 30 youths, providing each of them with laptops and stipends. That’s part of our commitment to building skills and empowering our people.”
Looking ahead, the Mayor announced plans for a second phase of the training program and reaffirmed his focus on key sectors including health, agriculture, and sports.
“I don’t believe in making noise. I let my work speak for me. We’re here to make an impact and build a legacy.”
