The Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area in Rivers State, Hon. Eugene Cheta Epelle, has publicly denied allegations that he assaulted (or ordered the assault of) a young woman, identified as Ogadinma Minnie (also reported as Uchechi Ogadinma, a former media aide), following her social media post about a school’s poor condition.

Ogadinma shared photos and videos on social media highlighting the dilapidated state of a public secondary school in the Odiokwu community, which happens to be the Chairman’s hometown.

She alleged that on March 1, 2026, the Chairman—accompanied by security personnel—confronted her at her residence. She claimed he viewed the post as a personal embarrassment and ordered his brother to beat her, resulting in physical injuries including a broken lip.

Hon. Epelle has denied the assault, characterizing the claims as politically motivated.

His account suggests that any injuries sustained by the woman occurred accidentally during a “minor scuffle” rather than a premeditated or ordered attack.

The Rivers State Police Command is reportedly investigating the matter as the victim seeks justice for the alleged battery.

The incident has sparked significant outrage on social media, with many calling for accountability regarding both the alleged assault and the state of the educational facilities in the LGA.

Rivers LGA chairman denies assaulting lady over video she shared showing dilapidated school in his community pic.twitter.com/jqByPT9UB9

— Naijatuneshub (@naijatuneshub) March 5, 2026