By Yusuf Mohammed Lawan, Gombe
19th May, 2026
The South East Nigeria Deaf Association (SENDA) has officially responded to growing controversies surrounding the suspension of the Abia State Branch Executive Committee of the Abia State Deaf Association (ABSDA), describing allegations against its leadership as “false, misleading, and malicious.”
In a memorandum dated May 16, 2026, and signed by the Zonal President and Coordinator of SENDA, Comrade Agha Efobi, the association stated that the suspension of ABSDA Chairman, Mr. Emenike Thompson Amakwe, alongside the dissolution of the state executive committee, followed due process and constitutional procedures.
According to SENDA, attempts were made to peacefully resolve the internal crisis affecting the Abia Deaf community through online mediation and physical intervention meetings organized by the Board of Trustees (BOT) and zonal leadership. However, the suspended chairman was accused of repeatedly refusing invitations and boycotting reconciliation meetings.
The memorandum emphasized that the principle of fair hearing was fully observed, noting that under Nigerian law, an individual who deliberately ignores lawful invitations cannot later claim denial of justice.
SENDA further raised serious concerns over what it described as a “safeguarding and governance crisis” within ABSDA. The organization alleged that the suspended chairman unlawfully handed over administrative responsibilities to an unofficial proxy who was reportedly under suspension over alleged sexual misconduct involving minors.
The association described the action as a dangerous breach capable of endangering vulnerable Deaf children and undermining the integrity of the organization.
As part of its resolutions, SENDA reaffirmed that the six-month suspension earlier announced on April 22, 2026, remains valid and binding pending the completion of investigations.
The organization also confirmed that the Caretaker Committee (CTC) remains the only recognized body authorized to represent ABSDA before the Abia State Government, security agencies, and the public.
In addition, SENDA directed Pastor Azubuike Okebugwu to work with the Nigeria Police Force in Abia State to secure all association properties and official assets from suspended officials.
The memorandum warned that any suspended official or unauthorized individual parading themselves as representatives of ABSDA during the suspension period would be treated as impostors and reported to law enforcement agencies.
SENDA reiterated its commitment to transparency, institutional accountability, and the protection of vulnerable members of the Deaf community.
— Published by Ability News Network (ANN)
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