By Tony Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has been commended for what has been described as a decisive intervention to safeguard the sanctity of the Awka traditional institution, following the lingering dispute over the Eze Uzu stool.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by Chinedu Obigwe, National Coordinator of the APGA Media Warriors Forum, who praised the governor for stopping what he termed the “intrusion” of Austin Ndigwe into the revered stool.
Obigwe’s reaction followed a press release by a group identifying itself as Awka kingmakers, which allegedly rejected the report of a state government panel of inquiry set up to investigate the Awka traditional kingship tussle.
Describing the kingmakers’ position as belated and lacking merit, Obigwe said the statement emanated from “an amorphous group” allegedly backing actions capable of undermining the traditional institution in Awka.
He argued that the Anambra State Government acted within its constitutional powers in setting up the panel of inquiry, insisting that the existence of related matters in court does not strip the governor of his responsibility to maintain law, order and security.
“The governor has a duty to ensure peace and stability in the state, particularly in the capital territory. The chieftaincy tussle in Awka had reached a level that required urgent intervention to prevent escalation,” he said.
Obigwe further maintained that the composition of the panel, which was not limited to Awka indigenes, was a deliberate effort to guarantee neutrality and fairness in its findings.
He dismissed claims that only Awka natives could adjudicate on the matter, noting that issues of custom and tradition are matters of fact that can be examined objectively by competent authorities.
The APGA chieftain also faulted parties to the dispute who participated in the panel proceedings but later rejected its outcome, describing such actions as inconsistent with the principles of arbitration.
According to him, Governor Soludo demonstrated leadership by “taking the bull by the horns” to halt what he termed the desecration of the Awka traditional stool.
“In all, proactive steps taken to prevent a crisis should be commended. The governor acted in the best interest of peace and order, and Ndi Awka are better for it,” Obigwe stated.
He expressed confidence in the Soludo administration’s commitment to good governance, urging residents of the state to continue supporting the government’s efforts to maintain stability.
