Enugu Govt suspends traditional ruler over communal crisis

By Alex Enebeli

Governor Peter Mbah has directed suspension of the traditional ruler of Obeagu Ugwuaji Autonomous Community in Enugu South Council Area of the state, Igwe Christopher Nyia, over alleged crisis in the community.

“The suspension letter was handed over to the royal father on July 28 by the commissioner following directive from Gov. Peter Mbah,” Enugu State Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Charles Egumgbe, announced in a statement on Wednesday.

The statement was issued by the ministry’s Public Relation Officer, Mr Emeka Nebeife.

The ministry had on July 15 suspended three traditional rulers and four President-Generals from some communities in Ezeagu Council Area of the state for misconduct bordering on security infractions.

“The suspension of Nyia is in the interest of peace, order and good governance for Obeagu Ugwuaji community.

“The community is engulfed in crisis due to allegation of gross misconduct levelled against the traditional ruler by members.

The government, he said, has constituted an administrative panel of inquiry to find out the remote causes of the crisis that led to the breakdown of law and order in the community.

“The panel of inquiry is expected to ascertain the role played by the traditional ruler in connection with the breakdown of law and order.

“The panel will also identify characters involved in the crisis that led to the breakdown of law and order and to ascertain the role of traditional ruler and any other person’s involved in the breakdown of law and order in the community,” he said.

The government gave the panel two weeks to complete its assignment. (NAN)