Enugu suspends monarch amid questions over Obi visit

Abimbola Joseph

The Enugu State Government has suspended the traditional ruler of Ibagwa Opi Ogbozalla Autonomous Community in Nsukka Local Government Area, Igwe Eze William Ezugwu, over alleged violations of the state’s Traditional Rulers Law.

The suspension took effect on 24 September, according to a letter issued by the state Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Charles Egumgbe. The government accused the monarch of persistent conduct it said was inconsistent with provisions of the law.

Among the allegations are that Ezugwu failed to subscribe to the community’s code of conduct, establish a traditional cabinet and set up a town union executive to assist in administering the autonomous community.

The government also accused him of running the affairs of the community single-handedly, saying the situation could plunge Ibagwa Opi into an avoidable crisis.

The suspension has nevertheless drawn public attention because it came shortly after the monarch received Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, at his palace in Opi.

Obi’s visit, which took place earlier in September, was followed by photographs and reports of the monarch offering prayers and goodwill to the former Anambra State governor.

The timing has fuelled speculation on social media that the visit may have contributed to the suspension. But the state government has not cited Obi’s visit as a reason for its action.

Indeed, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs has rejected any link between the suspension and the former Anambra governor’s visit, saying the action followed complaints about the monarch’s conduct and concerns over the administration of the community.

The distinction is significant: while the political context has generated speculation, the government’s formal case against Ezugwu centres on the administration of the autonomous community and alleged breaches of the Traditional Rulers Law.

The suspension is also part of a wider pattern of disciplinary action against traditional and community leaders in the state.

In July, the Enugu government suspended three traditional rulers and four presidents-general in Ezeagu Local Government Area over alleged misconduct connected with security matters.

For residents of Ibagwa Opi, the immediate issue is now how the community will be administered during the suspension and whether the allegations against the monarch will lead to further administrative proceedings.

The government has yet to announce a further timetable for resolving the matter.