By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
9- OCT- 2025

A delegation of respected representatives from Umuofum Village, under Umuihuocha Obohia Autonomous Community in Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area, recently paid a courtesy visit to the Hon. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Rubby Emele, at her office in Owerri.

The purpose of the visit, as stated by the delegation, was to seek clarification on the delay surrounding the official release of the Staff of Office earlier approved for Nze Greatman Ezendieze Ugwuadi. They also appealed to the Ministry to expedite action, emphasizing that prolonged delays in executing approved matters of traditional leadership amount to a denial of justice.

In her remarks, Hon. Emele warmly received the visitors and commended their orderly and diplomatic approach in seeking redress. She explained that the delay in issuing the Staff of Office was not deliberate but resulted from a series of petitions and rival claims that emerged after Nze Ugwuadi had already been screened, cleared, and duly recommended for official recognition.

According to the Hon. Commissioner, Dr. Paul Obasi—who initially endorsed Nze Ugwuadi—unexpectedly began to assert personal claim to the traditional stool towards the final stages of the process. Shortly afterward, another individual, Mr. Okey Bakassi, also declared interest in the same position. These multiple claims, she noted, prompted the State Government to place the process on temporary hold pending proper reconciliation and authentication of facts.

The delegation presented a copy of the Umuihuocha Obohia Community Constitution to the Hon. Commissioner, reaffirming that the Ezeship stool rotates clockwise among the four constituent villages, and that it is now the rightful turn of Umuofum Village. The document, they noted, aligns with the Ministry’s records and clearly establishes the legitimate claim of Nze Greatman Ezendieze Ugwuadi.

Responding, Hon. Emele confirmed that the Ministry possesses a copy of the same constitution and is fully aware of its rotational provisions. She, however, advised that stakeholders from Umuofum Village should harmonize their stance and present a unified position to strengthen their case and facilitate the Ministry’s final recommendation to the Governor.

She further suggested that Dr. Paul Obasi, being from the same village, should formally communicate his support for Nze Ugwuadi through the appropriate channels if indeed he stands by his earlier endorsement.

In conclusion, Hon. Rubby Emele thanked the delegation for their peaceful conduct and reassured them of the Ministry’s commitment to fairness, justice, and due process. She emphasized that once reconciliation efforts are completed and all necessary verifications concluded, the Ministry will ensure the matter is resolved in accordance with equity and the rule of law.