There is tension in Obuno Autonomous Community in Akpugo, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State over alleged issuance of a certificate of recognition to one Mr. Jack Nwatu without following due process.
Daily Gazette learnt that crisis is brewing in the community, with the people of the area vowing to resist what they termed imposition of a community leader.
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They accused the Enugu State commissioner for chieftaincy matters, Deacon Okey Ogbodo of ignoring wise counsel and going ahead with the illegality.
Ogbodo was alleged to have presented a certificate to Nwatu at the ministry of chieftency matters in Enugu in total violation of the chieftency laws.
Addressing journalists in Enugu on Wednesday, a top contender for the position, Prince Okwy Agbo, who was flanked by other members of the community, said he placed a call to the commissioner to remind him that there had never been verification/election in Obuno Autonomous Community and that the matter was also pending before the Enugu State High Court, Agbani division.
He expressed shock that the commissioner ignored him.
“What type of man did our Governor bring into his administration? When I heard that he was going to give Chief Jack Nwatu certificate without verification, no election, I thought it was a joke.
“Since 2016, Nwatu has been writing to be recognized without due process, but the government of Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and the commissioners that worked under the ministry of chieftency matters refused.
“I know Governor Peter Mbah did not instruct him to do what he did, because he is a lawyer and understands what it means that a matter is in court.
“The Governor should know those that mean well for him. Deacon Okey Ogbodo is not one. He should be sanctioned immediately,” he appealed.
Prince Agbo while urging the people of the community to remain calm, said no one would accept such imposition in a democratic society.
“We want the Governor to reverse whatever Deacon Okey Ogbodo did and direct him to follow due process.
“We are challenging the obnoxious constitution of our community in court.
“Even last Wednesday, we were in court and we will go back on 30th of this month. So, Okey Ogbodo has decided the court case. What a shame!” He said.
He called on the Governor, security agencies, religious bodies and human rights organization to hold the commissioner responsible for any breakdown of law and order in the area.
