ANAMBRA State Governor Charles Soludo has pardoned three traditional rulers in the state for conferring ‘unauthorised’ chieftaincy titles on some people, including the senator representing Anambra South in the National Assembly, Chief Ifeanyi Ubah.
Following a statement by the state Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, had written an open letter to the government accusing it of disrespecting the traditional institution/rulers of the state.
He also condemned the suspension of Igwe Damian Ezeani of Neni by the state government for conferring a title on Ubah.
But in a statement on Wednesday, January 14, Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, said the governor had reinstated the suspended Neni monarch and forgave two others of their infractions at a meeting attended by over 94 monarchs held on Tuesday, January 23, at Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia in Awka South Local Council of the state.
Aburime said while Igwe Ezeani was reinstated, the traditional rulers of Ojoto and Aguluezechukwu were forgiven of their infractions following their apologies,adding that the governor also addressed the welfare of monarchs in the state.
He stated in a statement: “The governor also magnanimously addressed some of their welfare issues. 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 forgives 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.”
