Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has reinstated the suspended traditional ruler of Neni in Anaocha Local Government Area, Igwe Damian Ezeani, as he reconciled with the Obi of Onitsha Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe after their dispute.
This was made known in a statement in Awka on wednesday, by the Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Christian Aburime, adding that Soludo reinstated the suspended Neni monarch and forgave two others for their alleged infractions.
The monarch, among others, were alleged to have conferred unauthorised chieftaincy titles on some persons, especially Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who joined the All Progressives Congress.
Ubah is believed to be preparing to challenge Soludo for the governorship seat in 2025
Following the suspension and other issues, Igwe Achebe wrote a long letter, slamming the Governor, alleging that he had no regard for traditional institution in the State.
Aburime disclosed that the Soludonforgave the monarch’s trespasses in a meeting attended by no fewer than 94 monarchs.
He stated that the meeting was held at the Governor’s Lodge in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area.
Aburime noted that while Igwe Ezeani was reinstated, the monarchs of Ojoto and Aguluezechukwu were forgiven after apologies .
He pointed out that the Governor also addressed some of the welfare issues of the monarchs.
In the statement, he said, “The Governor announced that with the apologies of the affected Traditional Rulers, the State government accepts their apologies, and subsequently reinstates the Traditional Ruler of Neni, and forgive the Traditional Rulers of Ojoto and Aguluezechukwu.
“Mr Governor further clarified the legal status of the Igwe Nawfia as advised by his legal team.
“As part of the vote of thanks, both the Obi of Onitsha and Igwe Ojoto passed the votes of thanks and requested for regular meetings with Mr Governor which Mr Governor graciously accepted to hold at least twice a year.
“The meeting ended on a high note with the traditional leaders having photo sessions with Mr Governor “
