Some members of the Amechi Awkunanaw Autonomous Community in Enugu South Local Government Area of Enugu State have applauded the suspension of their traditional ruler, Igwe Anthony Ogbodo Okorie.
South East Trust reports that Amechi Community is the hometown of some prominent people including a former governor of old Anambra State and one-time Minister of Sports, Senator Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, who was said to have aided the ascension of Igwe Okorie’s to the throne.
The traditional ruler was accused of alleged involvement in communal land deals without the support of the majority of members of the community, a development that reportedly caused a breach of peace in the area.
The Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs said Igwe Okorie was suspended for the unfortunate breakdown of law and order in Amechi Awkunanaw Autonomous Community where attempts at bringing peace have been stone-walled.
“The situation, if not checked, may exacerbate the present security challenge in our land,” the ministry said.
The Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Charles Egumgbe, cited the relevant sections of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers laws which Igwe Okorie contravened and was accordingly sanctioned.
While reacting to the suspension in a statement issued by the acting president general and secretary Amechi Awkunanaw Development Union (AADU), Barr Chukwudi Nwankwo and Emma Ike Orji, respectively, the people said: “We use this medium to express our profound gratitude to the peace-loving Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, for harkening to the cries and petitions of Amechi Awkunanaw against Igwe Anthony Ogbodo Okorie’s corrupt and divide and rule practice as well as intimidation, persecution and other forms of reign of terror leading to unprecedented insecurity that have ravaged the community.”
However, Igwe Okorie denied the allegations.
“None of the allegations is true,” the native ruler said in an interview.
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