NEWS
Abia State Govt Orders Deposed Azumini–Ndoki Monarch to Cease All Official Functions Pending Court of Appeal Verdict, Recognizes Interim Committee to Maintain Order
The Abia State Government has issued a stern directive to the deposed Traditional Ruler of Azumini–Ndoki Autonomous Community in Ukwa East Local Government Area, HRM Eze (Prof.) Edward Ebere Eule, instructing him to immediately desist from parading himself as the community’s monarch while an appeal before the Court of Appeal remains pending.
In a formal letter referenced MLGCA/CH/S.15/S.7/163, addressed to Eze Eule and Chief Okoro Egege, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs raised concerns that the former ruler has allegedly continued to act as the traditional authority despite his official dethronement. The Ministry warned that such actions have created confusion and instability within the leadership and administrative structures of the community.
Signed by Lady Oge Maduka, Esq., Permanent Secretary, the statement confirmed that the government recognizes and is collaborating only with the Azumini–Ndoki Interim Administrative Committee, chaired by High Chief Ogbo Ubani, as the sole legitimate authority in the community during this transitional period.
Eze Eule had been deposed by the state government for actions deemed “unbecoming of a traditional ruler.” Following his removal, he challenged the decision at the Abia State High Court, Ukwa, which ruled in his favor. However, the state government has filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal, Owerri Judicial Division in Suit No. CA/OW/354/2025 – Governor of Abia State & Ors v. HRM Eze Prof. Edward Ebere Eule, with a motion for stay of execution of the High Court judgment currently pending.
The Ministry clarified that the appeal renders the matter legally unresolved, and the deposition remains in effect until the appellate court reaches a final verdict. During this period, Eze Eule lacks authority to perform any official duties as the traditional ruler of Azumini–Ndoki.
The government further nullified the alleged appointment of Chief Okoro Egege as Traditional Prime Minister, emphasizing that no such recognition is valid while the appeal is ongoing. Both parties were explicitly warned against interfering in the activities of the Interim Administrative Committee.
In a related statement, the Ministry addressed ongoing petitions and counter-petitions stemming from the prolonged leadership crisis in the community. While expressing concern over the lingering dispute, the Ministry confirmed it is functus officio on matters concerning the substantive Ezeship stool and will abide by the final outcome of the Court of Appeal.
Regarding allegations contained in a September 11, 2025 petition, including claims of conspiracy, threats to life, unlawful property seizure, fraudulent activities, and the sale of a 500KVA community transformer, the Ministry clarified that these fall under criminal jurisdiction and are being handled by the Nigeria Police Force, where an investigation is reportedly ongoing.
To prevent a leadership vacuum, the Abia State Government formally recognized the Interim Administrative Committee of Azumini–Ndoki, empowering it to oversee the community’s affairs. The committee has been tasked with upholding customs and traditions, adhering to the community constitution, ensuring inclusive governance, and submitting quarterly reports to the Ministry. Non-compliance will attract sanctions.
The government urged all stakeholders to maintain law and order, warning that any attempt to disrupt peace or challenge the interim authority will be met with firm action
by the state.