Enugu state suspends traditional ruler over misconduct

The Enugu State Government has suspended Williams Ezugwu, the traditional ruler of Ibagwa Opi Ogbozalla Autonomous Community in Nsukka Local Government Area. This action is due to alleged misconduct.

Charles Egumgbe, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, shared this news in a statement on Thursday. The statement was issued by the ministry’s Public Relations Officer, Emeka Nebeife.

The News Agency of Nigeria reminds us that in July, the government also suspended three traditional rulers and four presidents-general from Ezeagu Local Government Area. That suspension was also over alleged misconduct related to security issues.

Mr Egumgbe explained that Mr Ezugwu’s suspension stems from “persistent conduct that is inconsistent with some sections of the Traditional Rulers Law of Enugu State.”

The suspension is effective immediately.

The accusations against Ezugwu include not following the community’s code of conduct. He is also said to have refused to form a cabinet to help manage the community’s affairs since it was created.

Additionally, he allegedly did not set up a town union executive, which means he has been running the community all by himself.

The commissioner pointed out that the traditional ruler’s actions could lead to a crisis in the community, which is why the suspension was necessary.