Communal Crisis: Gov Umahi Recalls Suspended Traditional Ruler

The Ebonyi State governor, Chief David Umahi, on Tuesday, approved the recall of the suspended traditional ruler of Ishinkwo-Ukawu autonomous community, Eze Josephat Ikegwu, who was suspended on October 17, 2022, following renewed killings in his community.

Briefing journalists at the end of the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting at the Old Government House Abakaliki, the State’s Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Barr. Uchenna Orji, said that the lifting of the suspension was with a caveat that the traditional ruler must ensure that law and order are maintained in his community.

Barr. Orji said, “Exco resolved to lift the suspension of the Traditional Ruler of Isinkwo Ukawu effective 26th day of November, 2022. Exco noted that there had been decorum and abatement of hostilities since the suspension of the traditional ruler.

“Exco directed that the traditional ruler must undertake to continue to keep the peace in the area as a condition for his reinstatement.”

He also revealed that during the Exco meeting, some executive council members were reshuffled and assigned new portfolios in other ministries, saying that the Commissioner for Infrastructural Development for Concession, Chief Romanus Nwasum, has been redesignated as Commissioner for Special Duties, while Mr. Chidozie Igwe is to serve as Special Assistant on Housing.

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The Commissioner stated that the Exco also approved activities for Christmas programmes for categories of Ebonyians beginning from December 9, to make the Yuletide memorable.

He also announced the setting up of a Committee headed by Commissioner for Trade and Investment to review agreement with Computer Village merchants over delay in commencement of activities at the site.

He further revealed that the Exco also set up another committee headed by Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Mr Uchenna Orji, among others, to review the State Anti-Corruption Law.

“Exco considered the draft State Anti- Corruption Bill presented before it by the Hon. Commissioner for Justice and Attorney- General and resolved to set up a review Committee made up of: the Commissioner for Information & State Orientation-Chairman, the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, SA Legal Member, Perm Sec Min of Justice, Other Exco members who are Lawyers,” he added.

Commissioner Orji also announced the constitution of a Committee headed by Special Assistant on TAs and STAS to verify shop allocation at the Saint Margaret Umahi International Market Abakaliki.

He stated that the terms of reference given to the committee include to find out the number of shops allocated, those paid for, evidence of payment and other matters connected thereto. The panel has seven days to submit its report.