Abia State government has ordered Reginald Okafor to desist from parading himself as the Eze-elect of Amairoke community, stating that the government only recognises Eze Moses Okwale as the traditional ruler of the entire Umuchieze autonomous community.
This is as the state government said it would only acknowledge government-recognised communities and traditional rulers.
This was the outcome of a meeting convened by Deputy Governor, Ikechuckwu Emetu in his office, on Thursday, for the people of Orronta and Amairoke villages in Lokpa Ukwu, Eluama Umuchieze autonomous community, Umunnochi LGA over the lingering leadership tussle.
He advised the villagers to embrace peaceful coexistence, pointing out that peaceful coexistence is the only thing that would attract sustenable development to the area.
To foster unity and ensure community oversight, the Deputy Governor announced the constitution of a seven-member steering committee drawn from Orronta and Amairoke villages.
The committee, which includes Eze Okwale, is tasked with overseeing mining activities in the area.
Earlier in his speech, Abia State Commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ogeh Maduka clarified that Amairoke is not a recognised autonomous community under the laws of Abia State.
He declared that Amairoka remains an integral part of Lokpa Ukwu within the Umuchieze block of Umunneochi local government area saying that there is no record within his Ministry indicating that Amairoke has ever been approved for autonomous community status.
The statement read in part: “The actions of Chief Reginald Okafor, who has been parading himself as “Eze-elect of Amairoke,”; are deemed unauthorised, misleading, and illegal.
”; These actions contravene the Abia State Traditional Rulers and Autonomous Communities Law (as amended). Unlawful Coronation Event: The event purportedly held on 23rd December 2024, described as a coronation ceremony, was conducted without the knowledge, consent, or endorsement of the Ministry.
“In light of these facts, the Ministry disassociates the Abia State government from the unfounded claims and actions of Chief Reginald Okafor, which is illegal and subject to prosecution”;, Abia government said.
