Abia Govt Warns Dethroned Eze Eule to Stop Parading as Azumini Monarch, Backs Interim C’ttee

Abia State Government has issued a stern warning to the deposed Traditional Ruler of Azumini–Ndoki Autonomous Community, Ukwa East Local Government Area, HRM Eze (Prof.) Edward Ebere Eule, directing him to immediately stop parading himself as the monarch of the community pending the determination of an appeal before the Court of Appeal.

In a letter referenced MLGCA/CH/S.15/S.7/163 and addressed to Eze Eule and Chief Okoro Egege, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs expressed concern that despite his dethronement, the former ruler has allegedly continued to act and present himself as the traditional authority, thereby creating confusion and instability within the leadership and administrative structures of the community.

The statement, signed by Lady Oge Maduka, Esq., Permanent Secretary for the Commissioner, stated that the government has officially recognized and is working with the Azumini–Ndoki Interim Administrative Committee chaired by High Chief Ogbo Ubani as the only duly constituted authority in the community for now.

The government recalled that Eze Eule was deposed for actions described as unbecoming of a traditional ruler. Following his removal, he challenged the decision at the Abia State High Court sitting in Ukwa, which ruled in his favour. However, the Abia State Government has since filed an appeal against that judgment at the Court of Appeal, Owerri Judicial Division, in Suit No. CA/OW/354/2025 — The Governor of Abia State & Ors v. HRM Eze Prof. Edward Ebere Eule. A motion for stay of execution of the High Court judgment is also pending.

According to the Ministry, the appeal renders the matter legally unresolved, and as such, the deposition remains in force pending the final determination of the appellate court. It emphasized that Eze Eule lacks the authority to perform official functions as Traditional Ruler during this period.

The government also nullified the purported appointment of Chief Okoro Egege as Traditional Prime Minister of Azumini–Ndoki, stating that no such recognition can stand while the appeal is pending. Both parties were warned to desist from interfering in the activities of the Interim Administrative Committee.

In a related development, the Ministry clarified its position on petitions and counter-petitions arising from the protracted leadership crisis in the community. In a separate statement signed by Lady Oge Maduka and sighted by newsmen, the Ministry noted that it is deeply concerned about the lingering dispute but is constrained from taking further decisions that may prejudice the issues before the Court of Appeal.

The Ministry stated that it is now functus officio on matters relating to the substantive Ezeship stool and will abide by the final outcome of the appeal.

Addressing allegations contained in a petition dated September 11, 2025 — including claims of conspiracy, threat to life, unlawful seizure of properties, fraudulent activities and the alleged sale of a 500KVA community transformer — the Ministry clarified that it lacks jurisdiction over criminal matters. It advised that such allegations fall within the purview of the Nigeria Police Force, where a petition is reportedly pending for investigation and possible prosecution.

To prevent a leadership vacuum, the Abia State Government formally recognized the Interim Administrative Committee of Azumini–Ndoki Autonomous Community, empowering it to oversee the affairs of the community pending further directives.

The committee has been charged to uphold the customs and traditions of the ancient kingdom, adhere strictly to the provisions of the community’s constitution, and ensure inclusive governance. It is also required to submit periodic and quarterly reports of its activities to the Ministry, with a warning that failure to comply will attract appropriate sanctions.

The government urged all stakeholders to maintain the status quo and remain law-abiding, warning that any attempt to disrupt the peace in Azumini–Ndoki Autonomous Community would be met with firm action by the State.