We Have No Intention To Impose Traditional Rulers On Communities -Soludo
By Ejike Abana
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, says his administration is not interested in imposing any traditional ruler on any community in the state.
Governor Soludo stated this at the Government House, Awka, while presenting Certificates of Recognition to traditional rulers of four communities in the state.
The Traditional Rulers are Igwe Alexander Azike of Igbo-ukwu, Igwe Mkpuorah Ngini of Isuanaocha, Eze Augustine Nwangwu of Ajalli and Igwe Ikechukwu Ezeofor of Umuona.
The Governor stated that the traditional rulers were popularly elected in their communities in accordance with their various constitutions.
Governor Soludo recalled that a good number of communities in Anambra had caretaker committees when his administration came on board, but under his leadership, they ensured communities conducted proper elections through the use of Option A4 which, so far, has taken place in 110 communities.
He emphasized that Anambra strictly operates under the traditional rulers’ law, and warned that those carrying themselves as traditional rulers when they are not recognized by the state are guilty, and that it is sanctionable under the law with a minimum of six months imprisonment.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Tony-Collins Nawbunwanne, pointed out that before now, there were lots of crises in many communities in the state which have stayed up to 20 or 30 years.
He noted that the Soludo administration does not compromise public interest for anything and gives fair hearing to all in line with the various constitutions in the communities, while emphasizing that the newly recognized traditional rulers passed through the process at the community, town union and state levels, as they were subjected for clearance by security agencies.
The Chairman, South East Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, advised the new traditional rulers not to destabilize their communities, but always listen to their subjects, saying that their enthronement is a great responsibility.
In an interview, the new traditional rulers assured of doing their best in their various communities to maintain peace and ensure development.
The President General of Umuona, Chief Kenneth Okoli who promised to support the new Traditional Ruler of Umuona, appreciated the Governor for restoring peace to their community.
The traditional rulers in company of their wives and people jubilated with traditional dance steps to celebrate the receipt of the Certificates of Recognition.
Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu, and that of Budget and Economic Planning, Ms. Chiamaka Nnake, attended the event.
