The Umuezeoka Autonomous Community in Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State is currently engulfed in a chieftaincy conflict, leading to internal strife among its residents. The community is urging Governor Francis Nwifuru to intervene promptly to resolve the escalating tension.
Local residents have expressed concerns over the ongoing chieftaincy dispute, which is creating discord, discontent, and fragmentation within the community. The traditional kingship position in the community typically rotates among three kinships – Umugo, Umuenyi, and Umuigboke.
Recent events indicate that it was Umuenyi’s turn to hold the position, and both the elders and youth groups had unanimously agreed to appoint a member from the Umugboloke family to ensure a smooth selection process.
However, during a meeting at Nworie-Ezzauwho, a faction of the Umuezeoka community members staged a walkout as a protest against the perceived irregularities in the selection process. Dr. Okulegu Bethran Enyim, a stakeholder and an APC Chieftain from the community, highlighted the need to prevent potential crises and maintain social stability.
Enyim accused Mr. Jude Okpor, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, of attempting to influence the selection of the next community leader without adhering to constitutional and traditional protocols.
He emphasized the historical process of selecting the Ezeogo (king) from Umuenyi and criticized the commissioner for allegedly destabilizing the community and disregarding established customs.
Enyim further alleged that the commissioner had resorted to using military personnel to intimidate community members in civil matters, a tactic that sparked fear and resistance among the residents.
In response, the Town Union President of Umuezeoka Autonomous Community, Mr. John Sunday Nwite, refuted claims of intimidation by the commissioner and asserted that all actions were taken to ensure peace and order within the community.
Another community member, Mr. Batholomew Okpoke, a member of the Screening Committee from Umuenyi kindred, raised concerns about the inconclusive report of the committee’s findings. He cited discrepancies in the zoning process and expressed dismay over the commissioner’s alleged interference in the traditional selection procedure.
One of the contenders for the kingship position, Mr. Nweke Solomon Udochi, shared his experience of intimidation during the dispute and highlighted the lack of transparency in the selection process, calling for a fair and unbiased resolution.
The community members emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution of the chieftaincy conflict and urged the governor to uphold integrity and justice in addressing the situation.
The situation has been marred by irregularities, illegality, immorality, sabotage, and bias.
“I have faced a lot of discrimination from the Hon. Commissioner for Information and the Town Union leadership of this community,” said the individual.
Issues arose when concerns were raised about qualifications based on ancestral origins for the kingship position within the community, which was deemed unconstitutional.
The rotation of the traditional stool among the three kindreds was also a point of contention, as it was mandated that the next king should come from the Umuenyi kindred.
However, complications arose within the Umuenyi kindred, where it was proposed that three candidates be presented instead of the usual one.
The involvement of the Commissioner in the selection process was new and led to various crises within the community.
Allegations were made that the Commissioner showed bias and did not consider the ancestral home of all individuals involved.
Concerns were raised about the Commissioner’s handling of the selection process, with accusations of impropriety and unfair practices.
The Pioneer Chairman of the Umuenyi kindred expressed dissatisfaction with the situation, stating that the actions taken were against the traditions of the land.
There were claims of ulterior motives on the part of the Commissioner and the Town Union President to install a king against the will of the people, causing tension within the community.
The Umuenyi kindred appealed to the Governor to intervene and uphold their right to select the next king without external interference.
Another contestant for the Kingship position, Chief Francis, also criticized the process, alleging that money was being used to influence the outcome.
In response to the accusations, the Commissioner denied any involvement in the kingship tussle, dismissing the claims as unfounded.
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