Just In: Anarchy looms as governor dethrones traditional ruler

Trouble is looming as the Enugu State government has dethroned HRM Igwe Anthony Ogbodo Okorie as the traditional ruler of Amechi Awkunanaw Autonomous Community in Enugu South Local Government Area of the state over alleged breakdown of law and order in the community.

The governor has withdrawn his Certificate of Recognition, following a prevailing crisis in the community which had claimed some lives.

In a press release by the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Dr. Charles Egumgbe, said the state government condemned the persistent crises pervading Amechi Awkunanaw Community and expressed dismay that “attempts at bringing peace to the community have been stone-walled.”

While addressing the press, the Commissioner told the traditional ruler that law and order had broken down in his community, leading to injuries to persons and property, adding that “the situation, if not checked, may exacerbate the present security challenges in our land.”

“In consequence therefore and pursuant to Section 10 (a) and (b) of the Traditional Rulers Laws, Cap 141, Revised Laws of Enugu State 2004, the government of Enugu State has suspended your recognition as the Igwe and Traditional Ruler of Amechi Awkunanaw Autonomous Community, Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State,” Dr. Egumgbe asserted.

Traditional ruler, who had earlier been summoned by the commissioner to his office on Tuesday, briefed newsmen that the government’s claim that its action was based on the crises in his community was not true as there was no issue in his domain.

He averred: “The commissioner told me that there is security crisis in Amechi but that is not true. I told him that there is no security crisis that is outstanding. In our security meeting, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Awkunanaw who is in charge of Amechi has not reported any serious breach of security in Amechi.

“The DSS also came to my palace in Amechi and never reported any serious breach of security in Amechi.

“I told them that the issue causing problem in Amechi community is landed property. The community wanted to recover their land. That is the issue and the matter is in court.”