In Ukwa East LGA of Abia State, a group of indigenes from Obohia Ndoki made their way to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Umuahia to push for the recognition of Monday George as their traditional ruler.
Upon their arrival at the Ministry, the protestors, armed with placards, accused the Abia State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, and some senior officials of showing bias towards Ugochukwu Ndubuisi for the royal position, instead of their preferred candidate Monday George from Umuokoraja.
According to the group, Monday George, hailing from Umuokoraja, is their chosen Eze-elect but has been allegedly sidelined in favor of Ugochukwu Ndubuisi from Umuokorota.
The protest leaders, Blessing Dike and George Mashal, also claimed that certain individuals, purportedly backed by disruptors, vandalized the palace of the former traditional ruler, Eze Hyacinth Okere Dike of Obohia Ndoki, and seized his ceremonial staff.
In a cautionary message, the Obohia Ndoki locals urged the Ministry and community members against forcing an unwanted candidate on them to prevent any potential unrest.
They further called upon Governor Alex Otti to step in and address the situation with the Commissioner and his team.
However, tensions escalated during the demonstration when Prince Ihueze Dike, son of the late Eze, was apprehended by security personnel for allegedly using offensive language towards the Commissioner and causing a disturbance.
Subsequently, Prince Ihueze Dike was released from custody at the Central Police Station in Umuahia.
Addressing the accusations, Abia State Commissioner Uzor Nwachukwu, speaking through Permanent Secretary Mrs. Chidinma Nwogu, refuted claims of siding with any faction and ensuring a fair selection process for the new Obohia Ndoki leader.
He dismissed allegations of misconduct and assured that all procedures would be duly followed for the appointment of a new monarch.