By Ifeanyi Okonkwo
The government of Anambra State says that the only recognized Traditional Ruler of Awka is His Royal Highness, Igwe Obi Gibson Nwosu, Eze Uzu II of Awka
In a special announcement signed by Anambra Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu stated that Anambra government wishes to state emphatically that Eze Uzu II of Awka who’s recognition by the state has not been withdrawn is the only one empowered by Section 15 of the traditional rulers law of Anambra State 2007 to preside functions of a traditional ruler in Awka.
Part of the announcement reads: “It is a criminal offence for any other person to do so by virtue of section 20 of the Traditional Rulers Law of Anambra State 2007.
“It has come to the attention of Anambra State Government that one Augustine Chukwuezube Ndigwe alias Uzu Awka is still parading himself as the authentic traditional ruler of Awka.
“Not only that; he’s also taken steps to perform one of the major harvest season’s traditional rites known as New Yam festival or “IWA JI” of the Awka people, thereby threatening the peace and tranquility of the town. The State Government will not tolerate this.
“The said Augustine Ndigwe is not the recognised Traditional Ruler of Awka and should henceforth desist from parading and portraying himself as the Traditional Ruler of Awka or attempting to usurp the rights of the legitimate and duly recognized Traditional Ruler, His Royal Highness, Igwe Obi Gibson Nwosu.
“Any such unlawful act in any part of Anambra state would not be condoned by the Anambra State Government and the state will not hesitate to sanction the Imposter according to the relevant laws of Anambra state.
