The Enugu State Government has suspended the traditional ruler of Obeagu Ugwuaji Autonomous Community in Enugu South Local Government Area, Igwe Christopher Nyia, over a dispute that resulted in a communal clash.
The suspension was announced on Wednesday by the state Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Charles Egumgbe, who said the decision was taken in line with Governor Peter Mbah’s directive.
According to the ministry, the action was necessary to restore peace, stability and proper governance in the community, which has been facing unrest following allegations of misconduct against the monarch.
“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 allegations of gross misconduct levelled against the traditional ruler by members,” the statement said.
The suspension letter was reportedly delivered to the monarch on July 28 by the commissioner.
The state government also set up an administrative panel of inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crisis and determine the causes of the breakdown of law and order in the community.
The panel is expected to examine the role of the traditional ruler and other individuals allegedly connected to the unrest.
“The panel will identify characters involved in the crisis that led to the breakdown of law and order and ascertain the role of the traditional ruler and any other person involved,” the government stated.
The inquiry committee has been given two weeks to conclude its investigation and submit its findings.
The latest action follows a similar move by the Chieftaincy Affairs Ministry on July 15, when three traditional rulers and four president-generals from communities in Ezeagu Local Government Area were suspended over alleged misconduct and security-related violations.