Umuahia, Abia – A long-standing kingship dispute in the Laguru community, Ubakala, has severely impacted the local economy, causing significant disruptions to development initiatives. This contentious issue has persisted for 11 years, leaving the community without a coronated monarch.
Local stakeholders have reported that remittances from the diaspora, which traditionally bolstered the community’s economy, have diminished as indigenes abroad feel unable to support a divided community. The President General of Laguru, Andrew Omerenma, emphasized the distressing trend, stating that residents in Europe and America have ceased sending financial support due to uncertainty about accountability in the absence of a recognized leader.
With dwindling funds, critical projects have stalled, including an under-construction civic center and water borehole drilling initiatives. Community leaders have placed blame on the previous administration for exacerbating the kingship crisis by bestowing a staff of office to an unrecognized contender, undermining the community’s wishes and a standing court order.
Chaplain Charles Ngwakwe, a former Vice President General of the Ubakala Clan, voiced concerns over the ongoing stalemate, highlighting its detrimental effects on Laguru’s development. He credited the local elders for preventing potential violence among the youth, emphasizing the urgency for resolution.
In an appeal for redress, stakeholders have urged Governor Alex Otti to intervene. They demand the withdrawal of the staff of office previously given to Cyril Ucheaga and its transfer to Chief Brown Ngadi Anozie, the rightful Eze-elect who was formally nominated for recognition by the government.
“This matter holds profound significance; we need justice,” asserted Ngwakwe, stressing the community’s need for a traditional ruler after more than a decade of turmoil.
A recent ruling from the Abia State High Court, led by Justice C. Chido Nwakanma, affirmed Anozie’s rightful claim to leadership. The court stated that he was “unanimously selected, elected and presented” for the Eze title nearly a decade ago. Justice Nwakanma ordered the immediate recognition of Anozie as the Eze and Traditional Ruler of Laguru Autonomous Community, reiterating the legal compliance of his appointment.