HURIWA Seeks Clarification On Suspension Of Enugu Monarch

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Enugu State Government to clarify the circumstances surrounding the suspension of the traditional ruler of Ibagwa Opi Ogbozalla Autonomous Community in Nsukka Local Government Area, Igwe Williams Ezugwu.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, on October 1, HURIWA said the clarification was necessary following reports that the monarch had received former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate Peter Obi at his palace.

The group asked the state government to state whether the monarch’s meeting with Obi was connected to the suspension.

HURIWA also asked the government to make public the specific allegations against the traditional ruler and the relevant provisions of the Traditional Rulers Law under which the action was taken.

The organisation further called for clarification on whether the monarch was given an opportunity to respond to the allegations before the suspension.

HURIWA said it was concerned about the possible effect of political activities on traditional institutions and urged the state government to ensure that traditional rulers were treated in accordance with applicable laws and due process.

The group also called for the suspension to be reviewed if it was established that due process was not followed.

HURIWA said traditional institutions play important roles in their communities and should be allowed to maintain their cultural and community functions without unnecessary political interference.

The association urged the Enugu State Government to provide Nigerians with further information on the circumstances surrounding the monarch’s suspension.