Obiano dethrones three monarchs in Anambra for ‘misconduct’

Willie Obiano, governor of Anambra, has dethroned three traditional rulers in the state.

The sacked monarchs are among the 12 rulers that were suspended in the state over alleged misconduct.

They were accused of travelling out of the state to see President Muhammadu Buhari earlier in the year without the government’s approval.

The sacked monarchs are Chijioke Nwankwo of Nawfia; Anthony Onyekwere of Owelle and G.B.C. Mbakwe of Abacha.

A statement by Greg Obi, Anambra commissioner for local government, chieftaincy and community affairs, said the sacked monarchs should submit their certificates of recognition to the secretaries of their local government areas within a month.

It also said the suspension of five other traditional rulers have been lifted while that of three others are subject to future review.

“The Anambra State Government has lifted the suspension of five traditional rulers in the state, namely Igwe Simon Ikechukwu Chidubem of Umumbo, Igwe A.N. Onwuneme of Ikenga, Igwe Mark Anthony Okonkwo of Alor, Igwe Chukwuma Bob Vincent Orji of Ezinifite and Igwe S.O. Uche of Ezira,” the statement said.

“The one-year suspension of Igwe Kelly N. Nkeli of Igbariam, Igwe Dr. Emeka Ilouno of Ifitedunu and Igwe Peter Uyanwa of Ukwulu continues, subject to future review as may be necessary.

“The state government also withdrew the certificates of recognition as traditional rulers of the following: Igwe Chijioke Nwankwo of Nawfia, Igwe Anthony Onyekwere of Owelle, and Igwe G.B.C. Mbakwe of Abacha.

“Igwes (monarchs) whose certificates of recognition have been withdrawn are directed to submit their certificate of recognition to the secretary of the local government of their communities within a month of this announcement.”