Ugwuanyi suspends two monarchs over communal crises

Enugu State Governor, Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, has ordered the immediate suspension of two traditional rulers in the state. Those suspended are His Royal Highness, Igwe Bernard Nwoye of Akwuke Autonomous Community and Igwe Cyprian Ekwomchi, of Akwuke Uwani Autonomous Community. A statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof Simon Ortuanya said their suspension was sequel to the breakdown of law and order in their communities in Enugu South Local Government Area. Their suspension also followed a mass protest by indigenes of the two communities to the Government House, “coupled with a petition against the traditional rulers by Mr Oliver Edeh, National President Akwuke Town Union and Engr. Chibuzor Ngene, President General Akwuke Uwani Town Union. The petitions were for themselves and on behalf of the people of Akwuke and Akwuke Uwani Autonomous Communities. Ortuanya explained that the suspension of the traditional rulers was in the interest of peace, order and good governance, adding that the action was in compliance with Section 10(b) of the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap 151 Revised Laws of Enugu State, 2004. He also, explained that the suspension was for a period of 30 days in the first instance, even as an administrative enquiry is to be set up by the State commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters in respect of allegations against the affected monarchs.