Okwudor Autonomous Community in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State is accusing Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, the Traditional Ruler of Obineugwu Autonomous Community and Chairman Imo State Elders Council, of instigating a crisis by trying to impose his preferred candidate as the new traditional ruler of Okwudor Autonomous Community.
The community is opposed to Eze Ilomuanya’s meddling in their affairs, stating that he has no authority to do so and that his actions are against their wishes.
The community leaders and stakeholders claim that Eze Ilomuanya’s meeting with some selected members of the community in his Owerri residence was a slap in the face to the entire Okwudor Autonomous Community and that he is using the name of Governor Senator Hope Uzodimma to wield power he does not have.
They argue that the issue of the Ezeship Stool in Okwudor has a history and that the authentic monarch will emerge through the community, not through Eze Ilomuanya’s imposition.
The community is demanding that Eze Ilomuanya should officially visit Okwudor Community and make a personal inquiry, rather than staying in his comfort zone and trying to impose his will on them.
They also question why Governor Uzodimma would allegedly give Eze Ilomuanya authority to handle the entire Okwudor Autonomous Community Ezeship affairs without setting up a committee to investigate and report back to him.
The situation highlights the complexities of traditional leadership and community governance in Imo State, and the need for respect for traditional authority and community autonomy.
Okwudor Community is still grappling with the Ezeship tussle, and now, Eze Ilomuanya’s involvement is being questioned.
The community believes he’s trying to compensate the family of the late traditional ruler, who was his friend and secretary.
Eze-elect, Prince Ibezim Collins Osunwa (Eze Udo) confirms he was invited to Eze Ilomuanya’s office, where he claimed the governor assigned him to mediate.
However, Prince Osunwa doubts this, given the governor’s understanding of Okwudor’s Ezeship issues.
He hopes the governor will respect the community’s choice and traditional norms, rather than perpetuating crises based on sentiments or nepotism. The community wants the Ezeship stool to be respected, not used for compensation or personal gain.
