Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, John Eyikwaje, who confirmed the sack, said Chief Agriga’s certificate of recognition had to be withdrawn to avert breakdown of law and order in his community and to serve as deterrent to others.
Representing the governor at an emergency meeting with traditional Rulers in Biase, the special adviser cautioned traditional rulers against becoming “overlords”.
“After series of complaints and security report, government viewed Agriga’s actions as unbecoming of a traditional ruler. Consequently, government has withdrawn his certificate of recognition as both village and clan head,” he said.
It was gathered that Agriga was earlier served a letter of warning in February 2014, and cautioned to engender peace and security of lives and property within Adim and its neighbours, but he failed to do so.
A statement signed by the Special Adviser, alleged that Chief Agriga encouraged miscreants in the community.
Meanwhile, Agriga has described his sack as illegal.