March 5, 2026
Nigeria: Teenage Girl Allegedly Assaulted by LGA Chairman Hon. Eugene Chita Epelle After Exposing Dilapidated Community Secondary School
In Rivers State, Nigeria, a troubling incident has sparked widespread outrage. On March 1, 2026, 26-year-old Ogadinma Minnie Uchechi, also known as Winnie Uchechi, alleges that the Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Hon. Eugene Chita Epelle, assaulted her and her mother at their home in Odiokwu Community.
The conflict began after Uchechi posted videos on social media exposing the severely dilapidated condition of Ujioku Secondary School. She highlighted crumbling structures and poor facilities, calling for urgent repairs. According to her account shared in interviews and viral narrations, the chairman arrived unannounced with his brother, aides, and possibly others.
Despite her mother pleading on her knees and Uchechi still recovering from a recent injury, physical violence reportedly followed. Uchechi described being beaten, strangled, and threatened, with the chairman allegedly stating that nothing would happen to him regardless of the outcome.
The story gained traction when influential voices, including social media personality Morris Monye, amplified Uchechi’s narration through a widely shared video. Public reactions condemned the alleged highhandedness, stressing that no public official should use power to silence criticism or punish citizens for demanding accountability.
The chairman has denied the assault claims. Through his press secretary and public statements, he described the visit as a peaceful and mature engagement aimed at dialogue. He asserted that Uchechi insulted him, and any injury she sustained occurred when a passerby intervened and she lost balance.
Rivers State Police have confirmed they are investigating the matter. Both parties have been invited for questioning. Civil society groups, including the Civil Liberties Organisation, along with human rights lawyers, have petitioned for a thorough, impartial probe. They demand swift action to ensure no one is above the law.
This case underscores deeper issues of governance, transparency in local administration, and the protection of free expression in Nigeria. Many residents and observers argue that leaders should address infrastructure failures through action rather than retaliation against those who speak out. As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the tension between authority and accountability in public service.
The original video of the school posted on social media below. These show the school’s rundown state that triggered the controversy.
