Enugu Govt Suspends Traditional Ruler Over Anarchy

Igwe Anthony Ogbodo Okorie, traditional ruler of Amechi Awkunanaw autonomous community in Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State, was Tuesday suspended from the throne over breakdown of law and order in the community.

The withdrawal of his certificate of recognition was contained in a statement issued by the state commissioner for chieftaincy matters, Dr Charles Egumgbe, seen by our correspondent on Wednesday.

The state government, in the statement, condemned the persistent crises pervading Amechi Awkunanaw community, and expressed dismay that ‘attempts at bringing peace to the community have been stone-walled’.

Dr Egumgbe said the suspension of Igwe Okorie was because law and order had broken down in his community, leading to injuries to persons and property.

He said the situation, if not checked, might ‘exacerbate the present security challenges in our land’.

According to him, the actions and inactions of Okorie in the crises were inconsistent with section 15 (d), (e), (f), (g), (h), (i) and (j) of the Traditional Rulers Law Cap 141, Revised Laws of Enugu State 2004.

He therefore stated that, “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 this Tuesday, October 5, 2021.

“Take notice that your suspension shall subsist pending the conclusion of investigations and aftermath.”