By Chinedum Treasure
Hundreds of residents of Ifite Nteje in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the Anambra State Government House, Awka, demanding the issuance of a Certificate of Return to the community’s Igwe-elect, Christopher Nnebo.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Justice for Ifite Nteje” and “Justice delayed is justice denied,” the protesters appealed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo to approve Nnebo’s recognition.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Obiorah Mgbakogu and Obidi Peter said Nnebo emerged winner in a keenly contested election involving eight candidates.
They argued that it was the turn of Ifite village to produce the traditional ruler after previous monarchs came from Ezi and Ikenga villages.
They urged the governor to issue the Certificate of Return, insisting the election followed due process and had restored peace in the community.
Also speaking, APGA Women Leader in Oyi LGA, Juliana Ibefuna, said the delay was causing concern despite the peaceful conduct of the election, and appealed for government intervention.
Responding, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Egbuna Okeke, who represented the Chief of Staff, Ernest Ezeajughi, commended the protesters for maintaining peace and assured them that their concerns would be forwarded to the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs for consideration.
Tags: Anambra, Nteje, Traditional Ruler, Soludo, Oyi LGA
