Emma Elekwa
People of Ndiowu community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State on Tuesday insisted that Chibuzor Okekeifi remained their authentic elected traditional ruler.
They made the declaration on Tuesday during a peaceful protest in Awka, the state capital to counter Monday’s protest organized by another group who condemned the election that produced Okekeifi.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Chairman, Elders Council of Ndiowu Town and Leader, Ndiowu Progressives, Bar Christian Nnabuihe described the protesters as terribly misinformed, misadvised and misguided.
He also described the constitution they paraded as fake, insisting that the 1990 constitution approved by government and Aguata High court remained the authentic document guiding the community.
According to him, the constitution not only declared that certain persons should no longer take part in election due to their dirty conduct, but is clear about women participation in such election.
He said, “We’re here to appreciate the governor for restoring peace in our town and creating conducive atmosphere for the conduct of free, fair credible election that produced our monarch.
Constitutional exclusion
“Ndiowu had 1990 constitution approved by government and Aguata High court, which declared that certain persons should no longer take part in election due to their dirty conduct.”
On alleged exclusion of women in the election, Nnabuihe described as sacrilege involvement of women in traditional ruler’s election.
“I stand to be corrected, there’s no community in Anambra state where women are permitted to take part in selection of traditional ruler and that’s is clearly stated in our constitution.
“A monarch is the custodian of people’s culture. It’s an abomination to involve women in such exercise. It has never happened anywhere.
“Those people who were here yesterday were terribly misinformed, misadvised and misguided. And the constitution they paraded was fake.
“A lot of them are regretting their journey yesterday. Their presence was nullity as far as majority of Ndiowu is concerned,” he stressed.
Also speaking, Woman President General of the town, Oby Okoli said, “As women, we desire peace and progress for us, our children and children’s children in Ndiowu.”
Responding, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Dr Nwabufor Nwankwo thanked the protesters for their peaceful conduct, assuring of speedy response to their request.
