A major crisis has erupted within the prestigious Owerri Club as members accuse the Club’s Chairman, Charles Okeke, of high-handedness, lawlessness, and dictatorship. The chairman is alleged to have arbitrarily suspended several members of the club for merely seeking adherence to the club’s rules. This has sparked a flurry of legal actions and internal strife, leaving the club’s leadership in turmoil.
On July 30, 2024, a letter from the law firm of Ndukwe Nnawuchi was issued to Okeke, warning him against the suspension of club members as it would be in violation of the club’s constitution. Despite this warning, Okeke proceeded with the suspensions, blatantly disregarding the rule of law and acting subjudice, as the matter was already before an Owerri High Court. An Originating Summons had been filed earlier concerning the non-adherence to the club’s rules.
Further complicating matters is another case in the Vacation Court, which accuses the chairman and the club committee of Contempt of Court. This matter stems from the committee’s actions after being served with court processes, as they allegedly continued with illegal activities despite being aware of the ongoing litigation.
A recent court judgment brought relief to the suspended members, reinstating them and slamming a fine of N150,000 on Charles Okeke. This ruling has fueled tensions even further, as many members believe the chairman’s actions are intended to intimidate and drive away members, allowing him to single-handedly control the club’s resources.
In addition to the legal battles, there is an impending libel case with the Imo State Police Command, following Okeke’s refusal to reduce his oral apologies for cyber defamation to writing. His initial cyber defamation incident involved senior members of the club, including a retired permanent secretary and a senior advocate of Nigeria, whom he described as “satanic, disgruntled, and fools.” His refusal to formally apologize has only worsened relations with the senior members.
Another major issue shaking the club is the controversial lease or rental of the property at the entrance of the club premises, which has been converted into a business center. This move has posed a heavy security threat, with reports of kidnappings allegedly occurring in front of the club. Members argue that the unauthorized commercial use of the space has exposed them to increased risks, leading to heightened concerns about their safety.
The club’s chairman is also involved in a non-approved change of purpose clause on the club’s land, shifting its intended use from recreational to commercial without the consent of members. This development has angered many, as it further exemplifies the chairman’s unilateral decision-making without accountability to the broader membership.
As tensions escalate, a separate matter before the Imo State Police Command, brought on August 9, 2024, accuses the chairman of threatening the life of a senior club member. This serious allegation adds to the growing list of accusations against Okeke, who is now seen as a divisive figure within the club.
The illegal suspension of members, the leasing of club property, and the chairman’s alleged disregard for the law have left Owerri Club in disarray. The once-respected social institution is now marred by internal conflicts and public controversies, with members calling for a return to constitutional rule and transparency in the management of the club’s resources.
The crisis shows no sign of abating as the leadership’s future hangs in the balance, with legal battles continuing to mount. Owerri Club remains in turmoil, with members divided and the reputation of the institution severely tarnished.
