Umuchigbo Iji Nike Autonomous Community in Enugu East Local Government Area is currently experiencing significant instability following the alleged unauthorized selection of a traditional ruler. Residents report that a staff of office was purportedly issued to Jude Agu, a move that contradicts the community constitution requiring a democratic election for the position of Igwe.
A large gathering of community members recently convened at the village square to formally declare that they do not recognize any monarch until a proper election occurs. They are calling upon Governor Peter Mbah to intervene and direct the Ministry of Chieftaincy Affairs to oversee a legitimate electoral process. This situation is further complicated by an existing Enugu State High Court injunction issued on July 25, 2025, by Justice A. A. Onovo, which restrains parties from presenting or acting as the Igwe or Igwe-elect while a substantive lawsuit is ongoing.
Community leaders, including Chief Okoh Gabriel and youth leader Anike Anthony Ikechukwu, have expressed deep frustration over the alleged manipulation of the process by former town union chairman Kenneth Mbah. The local population argues that the appointment bypasses the established republican tradition of the community. Aspirants for the throne, such as Chief Maurice Nonyelum Ekete, Joseph Iloka, and Josephat Ezeoha, emphasize that their constitution mandates a transparent ‘line-by-line’ voting system. They warn that ignoring this established procedure and violating court orders invites unnecessary disorder within the community.
