The government of Anambra has suspended, Igwe Damian Ezeani, the traditional ruler of Neni community, for one year for conferring a Chieftaincy title on Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah.
The suspension is contained in a letter signed by Mr TonyCollins Nwabunwanne, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, on Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024.
Ubah, who is of the All Progressives Congress (APC), represents Anambra South Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
The Commissioner said Ezeani did not obtain approval from the state government as contained in the traditional rulers’ code of conduct.
“We have received confirmed reports that you, as the traditional ruler of Neni, conferred such a phantom Chieftaincy title today on one Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah in violation of the Code of Conduct and without clearance from the Ministry.
“Whether or not your action was for pecuniary reasons as being insinuated in many quarters is irrelevant. What is important is that your action is an affront to order and good governance.
“I am directed to inform you that Mr Governor has in the exercise of his powers under Section 2 (C) of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers (Amendment) Law, 2020, suspended your recognition as traditional ruler of Neni until further notice,” he said.
Nwabunwanne said the traditional ruler was by the letter directed to state his defense and reason why his Certificate of Recognition should not be withdrawn.
According to him, in the meantime, you are advised in your own interest, to stop parading yourself forthwith, as the traditional ruler of Neni community. (NAN)