The Amuzi Progressives Union (APU), Dim-Na-Nume Isu in Nwangele Local Government Area of Imo State, has announced that it will be imposing sanctions on members who fail to attend the burial ceremony of Chief Paul Onyeaka, a retired Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), without valid reasons.
The decision comes as a response to growing concerns over the declining commitment and attendance of some APU members during significant events in the community.
Chief Onyeaka’s interment would hold on the 29th and 30th of June, 2023, at his country home in Amuzi.
Until his death on Friday, April 22, 2023, Onyeaka who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ugwumba Dim-Na-Nume, has been living in Owerri, Imo State capital since retirement from the police in 2018.
His contributions to the APU and the community at large have been widely recognized, making his burial an important event
In a widely circulated statement jointly signed by APU National Chairman, Obinna Otuonye and Secretary, Achonye Emmanuel, the association expressed disappointment over the diminishing dedication of members and emphasized the significance of paying last respects to departed brothers and sisters.
The statement stated, ” Ugwumba was one of the guiding lights for our community, and it is our collective responsibility to honour his memory by being present at his final farewell.”
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among APU members. While some view it as a necessary measure to reinforce commitment and respect for Chief Onyeaka, others argue that it may be overly punitive and fail to account for genuine constraints or personal circumstances that prevent attendance.
As the burial ceremony approaches, APU members are encouraged to communicate with the association’s leadership if they anticipate difficulties attending the event.
The APU has assured its members that they will carefully consider valid reasons for absence on a case-by-case basis.
APU’s decision to sanction absentee members during the burial reflects the community’s desire to uphold its values, honor its leaders, and ensure the commitment and participation of all in important occasions.
It remains to be seen how this measure will impact attendance and future community engagement within the APU.