Gov Obiano Pardons 3 Suspended Anambra Monarchs In ‘Act Of Magnanimity’

Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State has pardoned and reinstated the three suspended traditional rulers in the state in commemoration of 2021 New Year’s celebrations. Those pardoned were among the thirteen traditional rulers that were suspended from office on 11th August 2020 for visiting President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja without clearance from the state government. They were led by billionaire oil magnet, Prince Arthur Eze.

The Obiano administration had in December last year dethroned three of the monarchs by withdrawing their certificates of recognition while suspension on five others was lifted. Among those dethroned were Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo of Nawfia, Igwe Anthony Onyekwere of Owelle and Igwe G.B.C. Mbakwe of Abacha. Those whose suspension was lifted included Igwe Simon Ikechukwu Chidubem of Umumbo, Igwe A.N. Onwuneme of Ikenga, Igwe Mark Anthony Okonkwo of Alor, Igwe Chukwuma Bob Vincent Orji of Ezinifite and Igwe S.O. Uche of Ezira.

The state government had then stated that, “The one-year suspension of Igwe Kelly N. Nkeli of Igbariam, Igwe Dr Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu and Igwe Peter Uyanwa of Ukwulu continues, subject to future review as may be necessary.”

‌However, in a Friday’s announcement by the state commissioner for local government, chieftaincy and community affairs, Mr Greg Obi, Gov Obiano lifted the suspension of the monarchs whose suspensions were held in abeyance.

The statement reads in part, “His Excellency, in a New Year’s act of magnanimity, has decided to lift the suspension of three remaining traditional rulers effective immediately in the exercise of the powers bestowed on him under the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Law of 2007 as amended. The affected traditional rulers are Igwe Kelly N Nkeli of Igbariam, Igwe Dr Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu, and Igwe Peter A. Uyanwa of Ukwulu.”